Modern technology allows you to create such a coating that does not require special care and is very easy to assemble. This is laminate flooring. It is resistant to temperature and mechanical damage, does not fade in the sun and is an excellent alternative to expensive parquet floors. There are many types of it. How to choose a laminate in quality for an apartment, how to determine the one that most suits the interior of your house?
Laminate class
The choice of a laminate of a certain class of wear resistance is very important. This indicator determines the purpose of the room in which it will be used. The class is indicated by the numbers “21”, “22”, “23”, “31”, “32”, “33” and even “34”. The type of room in which the laminate is used is indicated by the figure in front (2 - residential, 3 - public space), and the second - the permissible intensity of walking on it.
Laminate of the thirtieth classes is also actively used in residential premises, since the higher the class, the more expensive, more reliable and durable the coating. For example, the service life of a 33rd class laminate when used in a residential building can be up to 20 years.
Laminate Board Thickness
When choosing a laminate, pay special attention to the thickness. This is a very important feature. Thickness varies from 6 to 14 mm. The thicker the floor, the higher the sound absorption, impact resistance and better thermal insulation. A quality floor covering must have a thickness of at least 8 mm. Keep in mind that installing a thicker laminate is much easier than 6 or 7 mm thick.
When choosing a laminate for this indicator, also consider its dependence on the area of the room. The larger the floor area, the thicker the floor should be.
Water resistance
If there is a question about how to choose a laminate for an apartment by quality, do not forget about water resistance. This is a weak point of even the highest strength, wear-resistant floor. The surface of the prefabricated parts withstands moisture penetration. However, if water or other liquid enters the joints of the laminated boards, this can lead to deformation. To avoid excessive costs for a new flooring for the kitchen or bathroom, where humidity is often high, manufacturers produce a practical version of a waterproof laminate. Also, when laying, it is recommended to use a special water-repellent glue, which will save the laminate from such troubles.
Environmental friendliness and safety
Laminate board includes:
- A layer of waterproof paper.
- The basis is a high-strength panel of fiberboard, MDF, HDF.
- A film that increases moisture resistance.
- A layer of decorative paper with a quality pattern.
- A layer of acrylate or melamine resin. Melanin resin is a type of plastic that is extremely durable. Multi-layer photo paper coated with melamine resin provides a realistic texture and depth.
In the process of direct high pressure, all of these layers are fused simultaneously. Please note that formaldehyde is present in the laminate. It should not exceed the permissible limit so that this does not affect the environmental friendliness of the laminate for the floor. If the manufacturer indicated the safety class “E1” or “E0” on the package, then everything is in order, it was tested in accordance with European standards. Choosing a laminate, you can appreciate its smell, the floor covering should not emit the smell of glue or paint, but only a delicate aroma of wood.
Mounting Method and Backing
The difference between an adhesive or adhesive from a prefabricated laminate is in the method of joining the plates. When laying the adhesive laminate, special glue is used, which reliably connects the floor components, but now it is almost never used. The prefabricated version has a locking connection and does not require additional bonding, which increases the environmental friendliness of the laminate: the panels are inserted one into the other and snap into place. Such a connection allows you to lay the floor yourself, replace the damaged part with a new one or completely disassemble the coating, if necessary.
The substrate is an integral component. Its main task is to level uneven floors and provide sound insulation. The substrate is cheaper - polyethylene foam, more expensive - cork. All these materials have antibacterial properties, they are not afraid of insects and mold. Some types of modern laminate are made with a backing. It is already glued and has a higher sound insulation. This option is more practical and economical.
Design
The interior of the room in which the laminate will be used determines its design. Manufacturers offer customers a floor covering that imitates wood, tiles, stone and depicting various abstract patterns. Laminate can repeat all natural textures and patterns. The structure of oak, alder or bamboo looks very beautiful. The floor in this design will look very natural and emphasize the environmental friendliness of the laminate.
In addition, it has a huge selection of artificial textures that emphasize the uniqueness and beauty of the interior. The surface of the laminate can be matte, textured, glossy or look like ceramic tile. Using a well-designed drawing, the direction of lines and colors, a unique visual effect is created, as a result of which the interior of the room will become brighter and the room will appear more spacious.
Children's room
Children's room is a special place in the house. The floor here must meet quite a few requirements. It must be hygienic, low in pollutants, durable and contribute to a favorable indoor climate without any health risks. During games, there is always the danger of spilling or dropping objects. Mechanical damage that threatens the floor in the children's room is compared with the load in the hallway. Therefore, more and more parents who care about the environment, choose a laminate in the nursery.
This flooring is durable and easy to keep clean. The surface is antistatic, so children can slide and play on it without creating a disturbing electric charge. Laminate floors are considered “anti-allergenic,” and many families have children with allergies. With a laminate, you can always control the cleanliness of the floor, unlike carpets. Choose shockproof, scratch and abrasion resistant coatings of at least grade 32, such as Tarkett laminate. Its environmental friendliness is confirmed by certificates, it complies with all international quality standards. Although the laminate floor is moisture resistant, still explain to the child that if something has spilled onto the floor, it should be wiped with a dry cloth or told to parents.
Do not forget also that the laminate is used not only for laying floors, but also in the decoration of countertops for kitchens, furniture and other interior items. This finish will look great in an ensemble with laminate floors.