Laminate flooring is one of the most popular floor covering options in modern living spaces. Offering the appearance of wood economically and practically, laminate floors stand out with their durability and easy maintenance.
What is Laminate Flooring?
Laminate flooring is a synthetic floor covering material formed by combining multiple layers under high pressure. With its decorative surface that mimics real wood appearance and durable structure, it offers an economical alternative to solid parquet.
Laminate Flooring Layers
- Overlay (Protective Layer): The top transparent layer provides protection against wear
- Decorative Paper: Visual layer with wood, stone or other patterns
- HDF/MDF Core: High density fiberboard, main carrier layer
- Balancing Layer: Bottom layer provides protection against moisture and stability
Types of Laminate Flooring
1. By Thickness
- 7mm: Economical option for light use areas
- 8mm: Standard thickness for home use
- 10-12mm: For commercial areas and heavy use
2. By Locking System
- Click System: Modern locking system providing easy and quick installation
- Classic System: Traditional installation requiring glue
3. By Usage Class
- AC3 (31): Normal domestic use
- AC4 (32): Heavy domestic use
- AC5 (33): Heavy commercial use
Advantages of Laminate Flooring
- Economical: Much more affordable than solid parquet
- Easy Installation: Quick laying thanks to click system
- Durable: Resistant to scratching and impact
- Easy Maintenance: Wiping with damp cloth is sufficient
- Hygienic: Doesn't harbor bacteria and allergens
- Variety: Thousands of different patterns and color options
- UV Resistance: Resistant to fading in sunlight
Things to Consider When Choosing Laminate Flooring
- Usage Area: AC class selection according to space intensity
- Thickness: Appropriate thickness for sound insulation and durability
- Water Resistance: Special water-resistant models for kitchen and bathroom
- Warranty Period: Warranty period as quality indicator
- Emission Value: E1 or E0 class low emission products
Laminate Flooring Installation
Important points for successful laminate flooring installation:
- Floor Preparation: Floor must be flat, clean and dry (max 2% moisture)
- Underlay Installation: Use of underlay for moisture barrier and sound insulation
- Acclimatization: Flooring should be kept in the room for 48 hours
- Expansion Gap: 8-10mm gap should be left from walls
- Laying Direction: Laying parallel to light direction preferred
Laminate Flooring Maintenance
- Weekly vacuum cleaning
- Wiping with damp (not wet) mop
- Use of special laminate floor cleaners
- Installing felt pads under heavy furniture
- Immediate cleaning of spilled liquids
- Protection from sharp and pointed objects
Laminate Flooring vs Other Floor Coverings
Compared to Solid Parquet: More economical, easier maintenance, better water resistance
Compared to Ceramic: Warmer feeling, better sound insulation, easier installation
Compared to Carpet: More hygienic, safe against allergens, easier cleaning
Conclusion
Laminate flooring is a practical and aesthetic floor covering solution for modern living spaces. With the right selection and regular maintenance, it provides trouble-free use for 15-25 years. With technological developments, laminate floors with constantly increasing water resistance and visual quality offer options suitable for every budget.