Laminate Flooring in Coeur D'Alene, ID
Laminate flooring is traditionally considered a budget-friendly choice that’s durable and reliable. At Panhandle Carpet One Floor & Home, we want you to know that today’s laminate has dramatically improved its feel and appearance. When you step onto a wood-look laminate floor, you probably won’t be able to tell that it’s not real hardwood. Our laminate flooring features a gorgeous natural appearance that’s incredibly realistic and difficult to distinguish from natural ceramic and stone. If you want to use laminate for your next home improvement project, keep reading to learn more about this versatile flooring and where you can install laminate.
What Is Laminate Flooring?
Laminate flooring has undoubtedly changed over the years. Today, laminate is primarily manufactured from a collection of pressed wood fibers and a top “wear layer” made of resin. Finally, a decorative layer is made using a high-definition image of a natural wood plank beneath a tough protective wear layer. This construction creates dimensional stability and prevents each plank from warping.
The Benefits of Having Laminate Floors in Coeur D’Alene, ID
- Durability: Laminate flooring is highly resistant to scratches, dents, and wear, making it ideal for homes where residents and visitors may track in dirt, sand, or small rocks from these activities. The tough outer layer of laminate can withstand heavy foot traffic, pets' claws, and even the occasional dropped object without showing significant damage.
- Moisture resistance: Laminate flooring, particularly newer models with enhanced moisture resistance, can handle occasional spills and damp conditions better than hardwood. This is especially useful in entryways, kitchens, and basements where moisture might be more prevalent. However, it's important to note that laminate is not fully waterproof, so prompt cleanup of spills is still necessary.
- Easy maintenance: Laminate flooring's sealed surface makes it easy to clean and maintain. A simple sweep, vacuum, or damp mop is usually sufficient to clean laminate floors. Unlike hardwood, laminate doesn't require regular waxing, polishing, or refinishing, saving homeowners time and money on maintenance.
- Affordability: Laminate flooring offers a cost-effective alternative to more expensive options like hardwood or natural stone. It provides a high-end look at a fraction of the cost, allowing homeowners to allocate their budget to other home improvements or investments.
- Variety of styles: Laminate flooring comes in a wide range of styles, colors, and patterns that can mimic the look of various materials. Homeowners can choose laminate that resembles hardwood, stone, or even ceramic tile, allowing them to achieve their desired aesthetic without these materials' higher cost or maintenance requirements.
- Insulation properties: Laminate flooring, especially with quality underlayment, can provide additional insulation to homes. This can help keep floors warmer underfoot and potentially contribute to lower heating costs during the colder months.
- Allergen reduction: Unlike carpet, laminate flooring doesn't trap allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander. This makes maintaining a cleaner indoor environment more accessible, benefiting allergy sufferers or those with respiratory sensitivities.
- Stability in varying conditions: Laminate flooring is engineered to be dimensionally stable, meaning it's less likely to expand, contract, or warp due to changes in temperature and humidity compared to solid hardwood. This stability helps maintain the floor's appearance and integrity over time.
Laminate Flooring vs. Hardwood Flooring
If you’ve been dreaming of having solid hardwood flooring throughout your home, you can now make this a reality with laminate flooring. While natural solid hardwood planks will always add value to any space, they should never be installed in areas with high moisture. And if you’re looking to get that classic feel with solid hardwood, laminate is an excellent solution if you want a wood-look floor without the hassle and cost.
Laminate
- Laminate high-definition imaging offers realistic wood grain and texture to each plank.
- Laminate planks won’t warp due to fluctuating temperatures.
- Laminate planks are water-resistant, unlike solid hardwood.
Hardwood
- Natural hardwood planks can be refinished multiple times over their lifetime.
- While they are an upfront investment, natural hardwood floors add value and offer a significant return on investment (ROI).
Laminate vs Luxury Vinyl Flooring
Both laminate flooring and luxury vinyl (LVP and LVT) offer numerous benefits. Learn more about these two types of flooring options here.
- Durability: Laminate and vinyl are durable enough to handle spills, scratches, and scuffs.
- Floor Care: Vinyl and laminate are both easy to clean.
- Cost: While both flooring types are budget-friendly, laminate comes with an unmatched design at a lower price than vinyl.
Is Laminate Flooring Waterproof?
While not all laminate flooring is water-resistant, some are waterproof to handle everyday wear and tear and spills. For this reason, laminate flooring is a favorite for busy homes and homeowners with pets and little ones. We also offer waterproof laminate flooring with a moisture-repellent surface and watertight seams for added protection from humidity and spills.
Professional Laminate Flooring Installation in Coeur D’Alene, ID
You can install laminate plank flooring and laminate tiles in various places around your home or business. Our laminate collection offers both snap-lock flooring and glue-down options. Light wood laminate is perfect for a beautiful living room, while natural stone laminate flooring is stylish for mudrooms and hallways. Some areas where laminate flooring can be installed include:
Panhandle Carpet One Floor & Home is your local source for premium wood-look and waterproof laminate flooring in Coeur D'Alene, ID. Our selection includes various styles to fit every budget and taste, from contemporary grey laminate flooring to traditional dark wood and tile look options. We also offer competitive laminate flooring prices and regular sales and promotions. If you’re ready to install your laminate flooring, visit our showroom or browse our online laminate selection today.