Debunking Common Myths About Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring has become a hugely popular choice for homeowners in Grand Rapids and surrounding areas seeking an attractive, durable, and budget-friendly alternative to hardwood and other traditional flooring options. However, despite its widespread use and advancements in manufacturing, several misconceptions persist. At DeGraaf Interiors, with our commitment to providing knowledgeable assistance, we believe in empowering our customers with accurate information. Let’s debunk some common myths surrounding laminate flooring to help you make an informed decision for your Grand Rapids home.
Myth 1: Laminate Flooring Looks and Feels Fake
The Truth: This was perhaps more accurate in the early days of laminate. However, modern laminate floors have undergone significant technological advancements. High-definition printing technology, coupled with realistic embossed textures that align perfectly with the printed grain (embossed-in-register or EIR), now creates floors that can be remarkably difficult to distinguish from real hardwood or stone. The depth, variation in plank designs, and matte finishes available today contribute to a much more authentic look and feel.
Myth 2: Laminate Flooring is Not Durable
The Truth: This is a significant misconception. High-quality laminate flooring products are known for its impressive durability. The tough wear layer, typically made of aluminum oxide, provides excellent resistance to scratches, stains, fading, and everyday wear and tear. While it’s not indestructible, a well-maintained laminate floor can withstand the demands of a busy household for many years. The durability grade (AC rating) of laminate flooring allows you to choose the right level of resistance for different areas of your home.
Myth 3: Laminate Flooring Cannot Be Installed in Kitchens or Bathrooms
The Truth: While traditional laminate floors with a standard fiberboard core is susceptible to water damage and therefore not recommended for moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms, advancements in manufacturing have led to the development of water-resistant. These options often feature water-resistant cores and tight locking mechanisms designed to prevent moisture penetration from the surface. However, it’s crucial to check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure the laminate flooring you choose is specifically designed for use in damp environments and to still take care to clean up spills promptly.
Myth 4: Laminate Flooring is Noisy
The Truth: Noisy or not largely depends on the quality of the underlayment used during installation. When installed directly over a subfloor without proper underlayment, laminate floors can sometimes produce a hollow sound when walked upon. However, using a quality underlayment specifically designed for laminate types of floors, can significantly reduce noise transmission and provide added comfort underfoot. Many even come with pre-attached underlayment for convenience and improved sound dampening.
Myth 5: Laminate Flooring is Bad for Indoor Air Quality
The Truth: Concerns about formaldehyde emissions from composite wood products like laminate have been raised in the past. However, reputable manufacturers adhere to strict regulations and low-emission standards, such as those set by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). When choosing laminate floors, look for certifications that guarantee low VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions, ensuring a healthy indoor environment for your family.
Myth 6: Laminate Flooring Cannot Be Repaired
The Truth: Cannot be sanded and refinished like solid hardwood, minor damage such as small scratches or chips can often be repaired using specialized repair kits that are readily available. Individual damaged planks in a click-lock system can sometimes be replaced if you have spare planks or can source replacements. However, extensive damage may require replacing a larger section.
Myth 7: All Laminate Flooring is the Same
The Truth: This is far from accurate. The quality, durability, aesthetics, and features can vary significantly between different manufacturers and product lines. Factors such as the thickness of the wear layer (AC rating), the density of the core, the quality of the design layer, and the locking mechanism all contribute to the overall performance and longevity of the laminate floor. It’s essential to compare different laminate flooring options and choose a product that meets the specific needs and traffic levels of your space.
Myth 8: Laminate Flooring Adds Little to No Home Value
The Truth: While it may not have the same perceived value as solid hardwood by some buyers, laminate products is still considered a desirable and attractive flooring option that can positively impact a home’s value, especially when it is a high-quality, well-maintained product that complements the home’s overall aesthetic. Its durability and ease of maintenance are often seen as significant benefits by potential buyers.
Choose Laminate Floors
By understanding the realities behind these common myths, homeowners in Grand Rapids can make more informed decisions about whether laminate flooring is the right choice for their homes. Modern laminate floors offer a compelling combination of style, durability, and affordability, making them a fantastic option for many applications.
At DeGraaf Interiors, our knowledgeable salespeople in Grand Rapids and Hudsonville are here to answer all your questions about flooring and help you explore the latest styles and innovations. We are committed to providing dedicated assistance to individuals and families as they make important decisions about their living environments.
Contact us Today! Visit our showroom locations in Grand Rapids, MI – Hudsonville, MI and speak with a flooring expert. We service the areas of Grand Rapids and surrounding areas. From knowledgeable salespeople who provide you with the latest ideas, trends and textures, to our trained installation specialists whose job it is to make every selection look beautiful in your home, the experienced DeGraaf Interiors team stands poised to lend our special expertise to your individual project.