Laminate flooring issues
14th October 2010
<a href="http://www.ukflooringdirect.co.uk/Laminate.htm ">laminate flooring </a> is certainly a popular surface these days, not least as various developments have improved the products in recent years. Whether it is high-pressure lamination for greater strength or enhanced scratch-resistant technology, laminate floors have much to offer.
As a result, laminate is popular, with a choice between planks and tiles, synthetic designs or wood effect, plus of course the fact such flooring costs less than normal wood all contributing to its appeal.
But while it is not actually wood, it is worth noting <a href="http://www.ukflooringdirect.co.uk/Laminate.htm ">laminate flooring </a> is made from the same base material and if you are thinking of installing it in the home it is important to tackle the potential problems that can occur, in order to avoid them.
This means laminate is prone to expanding like wood and thus cupping, crowning and even buckling are all genuine risks. As with wooden planking, these are usually the result of a lack of expansion gaps, a flaw arising when they are laid.
To prevent this, when the product arrives home it is important to allow it 48 hours in the room where it will be situated to acclimatise to the heat and humidity levels to find its normal level and even after this, a small expansion gap should be left around the perimeter of the room.
Water damage is another common occurrence and in this instance, the problem is again the fact that the material can swell and also be damaged by mildew and mould. In the first instance, when water or a similar liquid is spilt on the floor, it should be mopped up as quickly as possible to avoid it soaking into or seeping under the planks.
And like with most floors, damp from below should be protected against if a concrete subfloor is in place, with this requiring an underlay with a moisture barrier.
Dents and scratches are less of a risk than with most floors as toughness is one of laminate's key qualities. However, if damage does occur to the top layer this can be particularly notable so obvious measures should be used to avoid this. Dragging heavy furniture across the floor and wearing of stiletto heels should be avoided.
By taking these issues into account, laminate floor owners should find they not only avoid the worst problems such products can face, but enjoy having them in good condition for many years.
