Laminate flooring is becoming more prominent across the U.S. It can be found in homes for sale in Orlando to Cape Coral luxury homes and all across the South and Central Florida areas. There are many reasons why laminate is fast becoming one of the most popular choices for flooring in Florida homes.
What is Laminate?
Laminate is a synthetic flooring product that is manufactured by bonding or fusing together multiple distinct layers of simulated materials. Featuring melamine resin on the top and bottom layers the final product imitates the look of wood or stone, and can actually be hard to distinguish between the natural products and at first glance.
As homeowners learn more about this flooring product, many are choosing to add it or avoid it when considering new floors in their Cape Coral luxury homes and other locations. To discover the pluses and minuses of laminate floors before having it laid in Cape Coral luxury homes or any other residence, read through the points below that highlight both sides of this product.
Best Reasons to Add Laminate Flooring in Cape Coral Luxury Homes
- Lower Price Point: On average, laminate flooring costs about 50% less than hardwood. For homeowners who want to update their flooring without spending a fortune, laminate flooring may be the way to go.
- Durable: Long-lasting and resistant to scratches and moisture, laminate is often guaranteed by manufacturers who back their products with 15-, 20-, 25- or 30-year warranties. The length of warranties depends on the brand and model of the laminate and most often guard against fading, stains, and moisture damage.
- Replaceable: If an area of your flooring does need replacing for some reason, it can be re-laid in sections for a perfect match, as long as the same floor brand and model is still available.
Worst Reasons Not to Lay Laminate in Cape Coral Luxury Homes
- Resale Value: Since laminate is inexpensive, it doesn’t do much to a home’s resale value.
- Touch Quality: If you prefer a floor that is gentler on your feet than laminate may not be the best choice. It can be hard under foot even with its foam underlayment.
- Sound: Laminate does not insulate a room like you experience with carpet or cork flooring. It can give off a hollow sound when walked on, especially with hard soled shoes.
What to Think About When Choosing Laminate
Laminate is typically installed directly over your existing subfloor and homeowners will be able to choose from a variety of designs and styles. When selecting laminate, you should think about the following:
Where in Your Home Do You Want to Lay Laminate?
Floors can add to a space or detract from it. Think beyond a single room or area and look how the floor will look against the adjacent space. the best laminate flooring for a new space is one that complements or matches existing flooring.
What is the Best Color and Style?
For smaller rooms, it is best to lay down a wider plank. Think 5 inches or more. The fewer separation lines in a room, the larger it will appear.
You also will want to have lighter colors in small spaces, such as a whitewashed pine or natural maple for a wood look. Keep in mind that lighter floors do show dirt more easily. So if it is a high trafficked area, you might have to rethink the color. A medium range of hues may be best.
