Laminated Wood Flooring: Affordable and Versatile

Home improvement product manufacturers are increasingly turning their attention toward the do-it-yourself homeowner. And for good reason. Most homeowners simply can't afford exorbitant rates charged by contractors to make improvements. And they also enjoy the satisfaction of completing the project on their own.

One such product is laminated wood flooring. Costing considerably less than traditional hardwood flooring, laminated wood flooring is fast becoming the choice of flooring by those that want to do it on their own. And, with its durability and wide range of patterns available, almost any room in the home can be remodeled with laminated wood flooring.

Laminated wood flooring is constructed out of layers of wood fiber pressed together, then heated to form the durable wooden planks that can be patterned to simulate any wood grain or stone finish. The versatility of so many different patterns, textures, shades and colors offers the consumer the opportunity to choose a flooring without changing the existing decor.

The construction of the laminated wood flooring planks is designed with ease of installation in mind. Using what's known as tongue and groove, the pieces interlock together to form a rigid and durable flooring suitable for even the heaviest of traffic areas. The planks are installed atop a layer of foam underlayment that adds cushioning and noise reduction between the laminated wood flooring and the existing flooring. Laminated wood flooring can be laid on most types of existing flooring except carpet and any type of wood flooring laid on top of cement. Both should be removed before attempting to install laminate.

Caring for laminated wood flooring is much the same as any other type of wood flooring with a couple of exceptions. Because of the clear plastic wear layer that covers the planks, laminate is resilient to stains and scuffing. Some of the better, and more expensive, brands of laminated flooring are manufactured with a built in edge sealer to keep moisture from seeping down between the boards. Care should still be taken to keep as much moisture from a laid laminated wood floor. Because it's not an actual board of wood, spills should be cleaned up as soon as possible to prevent damage to the planks. Damp mopping is the suggested method for cleaning the laminate without the use of harsh chemical cleaners. You should also not use abrasive scrub brushes on the laminate as they may scratch the plastic wear layer.

For the do-it yourselfer, laminated wood flooring could be the most gratifying of home improvements. Laminate lends the style and beauty of a traditional hardwood floor for a fraction of the cost and is easy enough to install for almost anyone.