Top questions about laminate flooring in North Wales

Laminate flooring is a wood look flooring that is a strong and cost-effective floor covering for both domestic and commercial premises.

What is laminate?

Laminate floor planks have at least four distinct layers. The first layer is the wear layer, a clear topcoat that protects the floor from damage. The second layer is the design layer on which a pattern is printed. This is usually made to look like hardwood. Modern printing technology creates a realistic wood look.

The next layer is the inner core, which is made from natural wood pulp. This is the thickest layer and keeps the plank flat and stable. The fourth layer is the backing, which is water resistant and prevents the plank from warping.

Some vinyl planks have a fifth layer, a padded backing. If you purchase laminate without padding, an underlay can be purchased separately.

Is laminate eco-friendly?

Yes, laminates are kind on the environment. Manufacturers use wood materials that are recycled or use wood from sustainably managed forests, and keep emissions to the minimum at their factories.

Up to 85% of the materials in laminate flooring can be recycled at the end of its life.

Is laminate flooring expensive?

Like most flooring materials, there are various grades of laminate. You could pay a little over £10 a square metre for laminate planks, or over £40. If your laminate planks do not have attached underlay it is recommended that underlay is installed, but this is not expensive.

Laminate flooring is easy to install, so installation costs are not high.

Is laminate flooring waterproof?

Standard laminate flooring is water resistant, but you can get waterproof grades suitable for bathrooms, kitchens and high moisture areas.

Laminates are suitable for hallways that have outside doors. This will be sufficient to cope with people coming in soaking wet from a North Wales rainy day, or perhaps a waterfall-drenched walk through Wepre Park. It is advisable that any wetness on the floor is wiped up.

How do I clean laminate floors?

Use a damp cloth to blot liquids as soon as they are spilt. Tough stains from substances like oil, paint, markers, lipsticks, and tar can be removed with nail polish remover and a clean cloth

Don't wash or wet mop the floor with soap, water or detergent, use cleaning products formulated for laminates.

Laminates can be brushed and vacuumed to remove dirt and debris.

If you have any questions about laminate flooring, consult your North Wales flooring service.