Laminate Floor General Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is laminate flooring made of?
Laminate flooring is 80% wood: Wood fibers, wood chips, pulp derived from wood (paper). Wood products can be found in all three layers of the laminate floor: Decorative paper + overlay (wear layer), core layer, stabilizing layer. With the exception of the core layer each of these layers is impregnated with synthetic resin (e.g. melamine resin). These are pressed onto the core layer at high pressure and high temperature. Coverings made of synthetic resin have been used for decades in the production of kitchen, furniture, and office furnishing. The materials are of a high quality, are non-wearing and are outstanding when it comes to care and cleaning.
What is an underlayment?
The term "underlayment" refers to any roll or sheet product designed to be installed over the sub-floor surface and under the laminate flooring material.
Why do I need an underlayment?
Underlayments are used to: (1) improve acoustical properties, (2) smooth out minor sub-floor imperfections, (3) improve insulation properties, (4) reduce walking fatigue, and (5) helping to protect the laminate flooring material from sub-floor moisture.
How does Laminate flooring compare to other flooring surfaces?
Laminate flooring is typically more durable, less prone to indention, has better stain resistance, resists shrinkage and swelling due to seasonal changes, and is easier to install than many other flooring surfaces.
How does laminate flooring perform in noisy environments?
Laminate flooring is recommended for a noisy environment where the "challenges" of children and pets exist and it is not significantly noisier than other hard flooring surfaces. The choice of underlayment will have the greatest effect in reducing noise from pedestrian foot traffic. Your laminate retailer or flooring specialist will be able to guide you to the underlayment which is right for your installation situation.
How long will laminate floor last?
How long a laminate product will last depends upon the product one selects, the use it sees, and how well it is cared for. For product specific warranties, refer back to the manufacturer's information.
Will laminate flooring fade?
Normally not, it is possible that over the years you may find a small difference. For product specific warranty information, you should refer back to the manufacturer.
Should I be concerned about heavy furniture or appliances being placed on laminate flooring?
Laminate flooring offers better indentation and scratch resistance than most other types of flooring particularly as related to heavy loads. However, care and common sense should be exercised when moving heavy objects placed upon the flooring.
Does laminate flooring emit formaldehyde? Is it harmful to the environment?
Like all wood-based products laminate flooring also contains the substance formaldehyde, which can be emitted to the air retroactively. The amount of possible emissions, however, is absolutely minimal and falls within the range of "normal background levels�" in room air. This is comparable with emission levels from natural wood and is well below the legally permissible limit of 0.1 ppm (i.e. 0.12 mg/m³ of air), the so-called E1 value. Against this background, therefore, laminate flooring is suitable for use without reservation even in sensitive areas such as children's rooms.
Is laminate flooring hygienic?
Thanks to its sealed surface laminate flooring is extremely hygienic. The surface coating, which is made of a particularly hard material (melamine resin), prevents dirt and bacteria from penetrating the floor. However, laminate flooring is not just hygienic it is also extremely durable. You can even stub out a cigarette on laminate flooring without damaging the surface. The wear resistance of the floor is one of the reasons why it is a popular choice for commercial schemes as well, and in retail outlets, fitness studios, etc. But these qualities are also an advantage in the home, e.g. for the stairwell or in children's rooms.
