3.16. Laminate Flooring: Finding the Best for Your Home
Today, let’s delve into the key qualities of laminate flooring and learn how to select the right type, creating a cohesive color ensemble in room design. This flooring option has gained popularity recently thanks to its:
- Wear and mechanical damage resistance;
- Moisture and chemical resistance;
- Attractive appearance and a variety of patterns;
- Affordable price.
However, lacking knowledge about the proper selection, installation, and arrangement of laminate floors can lead to mistakes such as:
- Choosing the wrong class of laminate, leading to rapid deterioration and wear;
- Mismatched colors of baseboards, doors, furniture, and laminate in room design;
- Improper installation of the planks.
To avoid these issues, let me explain the criteria for choosing the right laminate flooring.
By Class
Laminate flooring is classified based on the level of foot traffic it can withstand:
- For up to 15 people, choose class 31;
- Up to 30 people – class 32;
- Up to 40 people – class 33;
- More than 40 people – class 34. For residential rooms, class 32 is optimal. For kitchens and corridors, class 33 or even 34 is suitable.
Contrary to popular belief, laminate flooring can also be used in bathrooms. Waterproof laminate made from PVC or vinyl tiles, also known as LVT, is perfect for this purpose, offering excellent insulation and a wide range of textures.
By Thickness
Standard thicknesses for laminate boards are 5, 8, 10, and 12 mm. The greater the foot traffic, the thicker the laminate should be, especially if the base flooring is less than ideal. However, thinner boards can work well on a good base.
I recommend choosing boards with a beveled edge for added safety and comfort, particularly if there are small children or you like walking barefoot. Also, consider a narrower board for a harmonized pattern.
By Color and Texture