Blog: 11 Myths About Laminate Flooring

Choosing the right flooring for your home or office requires research. Also, going for the best option is really difficult until you know the important laminate flooring facts. This is especially true for genres.

With these many options, you can select one only. So, who chose the laminate flooring the most? Well, the customers are looking for an economical and durable alternative to flooring (natural stone, wood etc.).

Laminate floors manufactured today are made from reclaimed wood pressed with widely used and analyzed polymers, so they closely resemble hardwood. However, there are some misconceptions about this flooring option, and some customers are generally reluctant to use it.

This article lists the most common myths and examines them for their value. In this way, you can form an opinion as to whether laminate flooring is suitable for your home or workplace. 

The 11 Most Common Myths about Laminate Floors

Laminate flooring has long been popular due to its realistic beauty, durability, and low cost. But such a vast backdrop gives rise to many myths. Below, we've detailed the most common types of myths circulating against laminate flooring to help you make your decision.

1. Laminate Flooring Is Not a Lasting Option

One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding laminate flooring is that it has a short lifespan. Laminate is not one of the most moisture-resistant alternatives, but it is very durable. Laminate flooring is actually much more resistant to scratches and dents than many wooden floors.

Also, laminate flooring consists of four layers: core, base, pattern structure, and wear strands. Thanks to this and major advances, especially in the area of ​​durable surfaces, laminate flooring is currently one of the most durable floor coverings. With proper care, this floor will last for decades while maintaining an attractive appearance.

2. Laminate Floors Area Easily Damaged by Water

This has also been the case in the past. Laminate floors get a bad reputation because they don't wick moisture well and tend to retain water and swell easily. In the past, just one leak could cause many moisture-related problems and damage. But all that is changing with advanced technology. We also see changes in the production and configuration of laminate options. 

Innovative sealing elements for laminate flooring have proven to be indispensable. A water-repellent coating protects the surface and prevents spills and water from penetrating the base. Each board is tightly glued to prevent moisture from penetrating inside. Some waterproof laminate floors include an extra layer that folds over the corners of the panels to increase water resistance at the seams. Also, you can read about how laminate flooring can be beneficial for the kitchen.

3. Laminate Flooring & Vinyl Flooring: Same Products, Different Names

Laminate and vinyl are both artificial floor coverings, but the difference between laminate panels and vinyl strips or tiles is immediately apparent. When comparing premium vinyl flooring and laminate flooring, the difference is not so obvious. The fundamental difference between laminate floors and premium vinyl floors is their composition. 

In PVC, a variety of styles and raw materials are used. Laminate, on the other hand, consists of a hard fiberboard backing covered with a pattern and an abrasion layer. 

Vinyl panels have a stronger, flexible backing made from a water-resistant polymer. A major component of laminate flooring is not waterproof, so it is not recommended for use in excessively damp areas such as closets and basements where moisture can damage the backing.

4. Laminate Floors Are Not Easy To Maintain

Many people find laminate flooring difficult and time-consuming to maintain. This is certainly far from reality. Because laminates are arranged, there is no joint to catch dirt, and it is smooth and untouched. Therefore, everything to do is to clean with a vacuum cleaner to save laminate that looks wonderful. Dust, dirt, and other visible particles are easily removable using one of these or even a damp towel.

However, avoid wet cleaning as moisture can penetrate even the smallest microcracks. You can also follow some basic tips and tricks to prevent scratches and damage to your laminate flooring from dust and dirt.

5. Laminate Flooring is Not Attractive

The laminated floor has been a long way since its creation and is now provided in a wide range of patterns, flowers, and styles. If you are considering laminate at home, study the latest style and model. In the past, laminates were functional but unattractive, but modern laminates are not.

Several options are now available, similar to almost all types of hardwood and stone. It has an image of a high-quality design and a natural material with a protective film on the outer shell. In many varieties, the design or texture of the material is printed on the top surface, making it impossible to tell the difference between laminate flooring and real oak or marble.

6. Laminate Floors are Expensive

Modern laminate flooring adapts perfectly to the organic elements, making many buyers feel expensive. However, laminate flooring is significantly cheaper than hardwood flooring, as well as some carpets and tiles. 

While the many benefits of laminate flooring are undeniable, the elegance and durability of the structure combine to provide a rich look and feel, and this may be the source of such misconceptions. Considering ease of maintenance and longevity based on the amount you spend, this is definitely a cost-effective option for any home.

7. Laminate Floors are Easily Damaged

Not so, as laminate flooring is one of the few solutions that can resist scratches and damage, the wear-resistant top cover of the laminated mat is very durable and reliably protects the material. Laminate floors are not completely waterproof, but they can withstand minor scuffs and scratches.

Laminate floors are more resistant to dents and scratches than vinyl or wood floors. However, over time, microcracks and defects can develop, so you can replace them to avoid damage to the tiles due to moisture from the gaps. You can learn more about how laminate reacts when exposed to water through this guide.

8. Laminate Floors are Expensive to Repair

Laminate floors are made from individual boards that are extremely durable. However, if damage does occur, laminate flooring can be quickly and easily repaired. A wax stick is all you need to keep your laminate floors spotless for years to come.

Also, if the damage is extensive, it can be repaired inexpensively by simply lifting the insulation panel. Since the base level is neither glued nor fixed to the floor, replacing the laminate panels is very easy. With that in mind, it's usually a good idea to stock up on spare panels.

9. Laminate Flooring is an Unhealthy Option

This is a common concern with customers looking for healthier solutions for their homes. Laminate flooring emits toxic gasses such as VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which can be harmful to health. For owners, it is now an important factor in determining the health of the family.

Meanwhile, the latest premium laminate is perfect for home use, and all the Floormonk laminate flooring is approved to improve indoor air health. Laminate flooring does not absorb debris, pollen, or bacteria, making it ideal for families with allergies.

10. Laminate Flooring has Limited Options

This is another myth far removed from reality. On the contrary, it offers a wide variety of designs and patterns. Laminate flooring has many benefits if you want your home to stand out from the rest.

Choose from a rustic wood design or a more organic natural stone pattern. What's more, the modern designs you can achieve with laminate flooring are limitless, and you can experiment with durable classic designs or modern patterns. Floor coverings come in a variety of colors and designs and can easily enhance the interior of your home.

11. Laminate Flooring Installation is Difficult and Takes Time

Another unfounded myth: Laminate flooring is the easiest flooring option to install. The installation stage is not only easy but quick, and some customers perform this task themselves. It is very important to emphasize never to try to do it yourself if you are not confident because if you make a mistake, you can spend your energy, time, and money.

Flooring design is usually best left to the professionals. This ensures that the work is done correctly. However, we can emphasize the fact that laying laminate floors is very practical if we compare them to other alternatives. Also, if your mind is thinking about SPC flooring installation, we have a dedicated guide (check it) to better understand the installation process. Also, you can compare it with laminate flooring.

Explore Myth Free SPC Today

What should I look for when buying laminate flooring?

When choosing laminate flooring, be sure to choose one made from renewable resources. This includes materials such as bamboo and wood pulp. 

Also, make sure the floor covering meets your specific needs. You should also know other aspects of this product, except E-peel ratings and other certifications, in order to select floors that meet the standards. When choosing a color, choose something aesthetically pleasing and neutral to easily fit into any room or decor.

Which laminate thickness is best?

There are several factors to consider when choosing the right laminate for your floor. The first is the weight of furniture and art objects. Lighter materials, such as vinyl or linoleum, should be used for floors that are walked on infrequently, while heavier materials (such as hardwood) may be better for areas expected to be heavily used. 

The second factor to consider is how often you clean your floors. A finer material may be sufficient if it is generally kept clean. In any case, if ordinary cleaning is necessary, a thicker coat is necessary to keep harm from acids and solvents utilized in cleaning techniques.

What is the best way to clean laminate flooring?

While the vast majority utilize a vacuum cleaner to clean their overlay floors, it's not by any means the only way. You can likewise utilize high-temperature water and a mop or a can of warm water. Make certain to flush the floor prior to continuing to the following area completely. At long last, you can shower your floors with an antibacterial cleaning solution.

Advantages of laminate flooring?

• The cover is an extraordinary choice for those searching for a simple to clean floor surface.

• Laminate flooring is alluring and is available at a sensible cost.

• Low support and simple to clean with a clammy mop and container.

Conclusion

After we cleared these confusions, the decision to choose overlay flooring should be easy for you. We've cleared up every one of the misguided judgments about cover laminate flooring so you can have confidence that it's ideally suited for your home or office. If you have any inquiries with respect to the best ground surface or other options, go ahead and reach us.