Installing Laminate Flooring, By Stu Silverman

If you're installing a new floor, laminate flooring is definitely worth considering. Basically, laminate flooring is made to simulate wood or stone - some of the latest models do so remarkably well - with far less maintenance and more durability, among other benefits.

Laminate floors are often referred to as “Pergo,” but that's just one of many companies offering these durable floors. There are many other brands to choose from, such as Armstrong, Wilson Art, Formica, Balta and Kronoswiss. And there's a virtually endless variety of styles and colors - wood and tile are just the beginning.

Laminates are low-maintenance

Laminate flooring is easy to maintain. The surface doesn't catch dirt, and is nearly impervious to stains. It can be cleaned easily with a slightly damp mop, followed by a dry towel. Daily maintenance is easily done with a dry sweeper, such as a Swiffer. Laminate flooring offers the rich look of hardwood, yet it's as easy to care for as a laminate countertop. They are incredibly resistant to wear and scratching - even by cats and dogs. And with some brands, you can leave a match or cigarette burn on it for a couple of minutes and there will be no permanent damage.

Easy installation saves time and money

Another benefit of laminate flooring is that it's relatively easy to install, which will save you time and money compared to a wood floor. The laminate floor planks fit together with a tongue-and-groove design. Often, glue is applied on the tongues and grooves to hold the boards or tiles together. Some brands simply snap together and don't even need glue, while others have a factory-applied adhesive on the tongues and grooves that is activated when the pieces are fit together. This glue holds very well, yet the pieces can be taken apart easily. And since laminate floors aren't nailed or glued to the subfloor - they “float” on top of the existing floor - the floor can be taken apart and moved into another room, or another home, at a later time. The non-glued floors can be walked on and have furniture placed on it immediately after installation, whereas glued floors require 20 to 30 hours to set.

The underlay pad is an important component

Laminate floors can be installed over any flat, hard surface, including vinyl flooring, hardwood, concrete and plywood. For best results, an under-padding is used to cushion the floor and absorb sound and moisture, and can even help laminate floors sound like hardwood. Underlay pads increase insulation over cold floors, and smooth out minor imperfections in the subfloor.

Better pads provide better protection

Better pads protect the flooring from moisture damage with a vapor barrier that wicks water away from the contact point. These pads prevent damage to laminate floors caused by hydrostatic moisture rise through porous subfloors, and some contain an anti-microbal agent which prevents the growth of mould, mildew and fungus. Your laminate flooring contractor should be able to recommend an underlay pad that's appropriate for your needs and budget.

Laminate flooring is made to simulate wood or stone, with far less maintenance and more durability.

Due to the variety in quality, features, installation procedures (glue or non-glue), and types of underpadding, laminate floors can cost anywhere between $6 and $15 per square foot, installed. The higher end is in the range of hardwood floors, but laminates don't require regular recoating or refinishing, and may last longer. Go to a store or showroom and compare.