Laminate Flooring Choices
Floors undergoing the lamination process are generally known as laminate flooring. Lamination is, in fact, a particular process by which hard plastic or fiber glass is applied to the core material of flooring woods under intense heat and pressure. As for the types, there are many types of laminate flooring depending on the way they are laminated, the composition of their surface pattern or the intended installation method.
Laminating flooring is of two types with regard to lamination process: direct pressure laminate flooring (DPL) and high pressure laminate flooring (HPL).
- 1. Direct Pressure Laminating
In this method the core layer as well as the laminate are fused together under 300 pounds per square inch of pressure at 300 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This process relatively takes less effort and time; the laminate flooring is less resistant to dents and scratches and is more prone to turning out of shape.
- 2. High Pressure Laminating
The HPL involves intense heating pressure. When the core layer of the floor passes through the laminate machine, it is subjected to intense pressure that goes up to 1000 pounds per square inch, at a temperature ranging from 300 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Due to high pressure, the lamination appears thinner but it has higher level of resistance against scratches and dents and does not tend to peel away in comparison with direct pressure laminating.
Laminate floors are divided into four types with respect to their surface pattern.
1. Embossed
Heat sensitive polymer material is used in order to create raised surface texture. It is a less slippery floor best for high-traffic areas.
2. Smooth
It is a flat surface which resembles tile floors. It is more slippery but easier to clean.
3. Distressed
Distressed surfaces are carved out through machines which give aged look. It is mostly liked by traditionalists who prefer classical style over modern.
4. Patina
It is a sort of luster which is produced on wooden surfaces. Usually a thin layer is of paint is applied on embossed surface and is soon wiped away. The embossed spaces maintain paint and give the look of patina.
Taking into account the installation procedures, laminate flooring is divided into two types.
- Glued Laminate Flooring.
Glued laminate flooring is composed of slats that are glued together side by side and installed directly on the concrete floor. Here slats are fused with each other but are not directly glued to the floor. Once the installation is complete, a specialized sealant is applied on the seams to keep moisture away from seeping into it.
- Floating Glue-free Laminate Flooring
This laminate flooring is installed just like a gigantic jigsaw puzzle. Here the flooring plies are locked against each other. This method makes it very hard to take the laminate slats apart once they are properly installed.
Apart from these types, laminate floors also exist in a variety of appearance. They not only give the look of hardwood floorings but also the look of tile or stone flooring. In a nutshell, laminate floors are most widely used in the modern age because of their availability in a wide range of variety which not only fits any décor of house but also enhances its monetary value.
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