Laminate flooring in Matthews, NC has become increasingly popular due to its affordability, durability, and wide range of styles. But have you ever wondered what exactly it's made of?
Let's break down the components of this versatile flooring option.
The 4 layers of laminate flooring
Laminate flooring isn't solid wood, but it does have wood components. It's essentially a multi-layer synthetic product that's designed to mimic the look of hardwood or even stone. Here are the four key layers that make up a laminate plank:
Wear layer
The topmost layer is a transparent, protective coating made of aluminum oxide or melamine resin. This layer shields the floor from scratches, stains, fading, and general wear and tear. The thicker the wear layer, the more durable the laminate.
Design layer
This is where the magic happens. It's a high-resolution photographic image of wood, stone, or tile, giving laminate its realistic appearance. Advanced printing techniques create incredibly detailed designs that closely resemble the natural materials they imitate.
Core layer
The core layer is the heart of the laminate plank, providing stability and strength. It's typically made of high-density fiberboard (HDF) or medium-density fiberboard (MDF), both of which are engineered wood products made from wood fibers and resin. HDF is generally denser and more moisture-resistant than MDF.
Backing layer
The bottom layer is a moisture barrier that protects the plank from warping and helps maintain its structural integrity. It's usually made of melamine resin or a similar material.
The laminate floor manufacturing process
These four layers are fused together under high heat and pressure in a process called lamination. This creates a strong, durable plank that can withstand the demands of everyday life.
Additional considerations
Underlayment: An underlayment is often installed beneath laminate flooring to provide additional moisture protection, sound insulation, and underfoot comfort.
Click-Lock System: Most laminate floors feature a click-lock system for easy installation without the need for glue or nails.
Why laminate is the perfect choice for your Matthews, NC home
- Affordability: Laminate is a cost-effective alternative to hardwood or stone.
- Durability: It's resistant to scratches, stains, and fading, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
- Variety of Styles: Laminate comes in a vast array of designs, mimicking various wood species, stone types, and tile patterns.
- Easy Maintenance: It's easy to clean and maintain, requiring only regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping.
- DIY-Friendly Installation: The click-lock system makes installation relatively easy for DIY enthusiasts.
See these unique floors for yourself at Liberty Flooring Solutions
At Liberty Flooring Solutions, we're passionate about providing top-quality flooring solutions that meet the unique needs of our customers. We're a pro-America, pro-freedom, family-owned and operated business with decades of experience in the flooring industry.
If you're considering laminate flooring for your home or business, we invite you to visit our showroom in Matthews, NC. We proudly serve Charlotte, Weddington, Ballantyne, Fort Mill, and South Park. Our knowledgeable team will help you explore our wide selection of laminate flooring options and find the perfect fit for your style and budget.
