Laminate Flooring Pros and Cons
Submitted on Mar 27th, 2010 in category: Laminate FlooringThere are many reasons to choose laminate flooring over traditional hardwood or stone flooring, and a few downsides as well. It is always best to weigh your different options before making any final decisions. You want to have something you can enjoy for years to come.
Pros:
Price: Laminate flooring is significantly cheaper than its hardwood, stone, or tile counterparts. It is also an inexpensive alternative to carpeting, as well as sanding and refinishing extremely old hardwood floors.
Maintenance: Laminate flooring is essentially maintenance-free. There are not a lot of places for dirt to hide, and simply sweeping and mopping will keep your floors clean. You do not have to worry about stains, since wine and other substances are unable to permeate the laminate surface.
Cleanliness of Surface Structure: Since laminate flooring sheets are sealed to each other, there is nowhere for dirt or dust mites to get trapped. This adds to the easy maintenance, as well as a smooth and attractive surface.
Cons:
Noise: Since the thickness of laminate flooring is often a fraction of hardwood or stone, the floor has a tendency to sound loud and hollow. This can create and echo effect in many larger rooms in your house.
Water Damage: While laminate flooring has a relatively impermeable surface, it is still possible to have water damage. If the edges are not sealed properly, and you have something such as a dog’s water dish near the wall, it can seep inside the floor and create warping.
Lack of Custom Design: There are many different styles and colors of laminate flooring, but since the sheets are made in a factory far away from where you are purchasing them, there is rarely any potential to customize it. If you have very specific colors, styles, or wood finishes you are hoping to complement, you might have trouble finding the exact match.
There are many factors when choosing which type of flooring to install in your home, including San Diego ceramic tile, be sure to consider all of your different options before making a decision. It is always best to do something right the first time around.
About the Author:
Ryan Frank is an avid writer and blogger living in San Diego, CA.