What Is Laminate Flooring?
Modern laminate floors give you the look and feel of a traditional hardwood floor, minus the cost typically associated with one. Instead of using boards made of solid wood, laminate flooring has a base of resin and particleboard wood, with a detailed image layer above and a thick, transparent protective layer.
These days, it’s hard to tell a laminate floor apart from hardwood. With intricate textures and color variations, this type of flooring provides a beautiful surface that feels natural. We even offer new water resistant laminate floors!
Laminate is Durable, Clean and Easy to Maintain
Because of their durability, hygienic qualities, and easy installation and maintenance, laminates quickly became the popular choice when cost-conscious consumers couldn’t bear the cost of tile, or stone floors. Glueless laminate flooring planks, tongue, and groove sections that snap together without needing adhesives were developed in 1996, making laminate easier to install and even more attractive to budget-minded homeowners.
There is not much price difference between laminates which mimic different types of surfaces like hardwood or stone. That’s because the manufacturing process is the same, regardless of style, color, or type.
Brands
What Are the Benefits of Installing Laminate Flooring?
Besides the terrific style options available, choosing laminate flooring installation gives homeowners and business owners many other benefits:
- Laminate flooring is less expensive than other types of flooring
- It can be faster to install
- Less susceptible to water damage
- It resists scratches
- Cleaning only requires quick sweeping — no sanding or refinishing
Few types of flooring are better than laminate for large families with pets or small children. The combination of durability, beauty, and style is irresistible for parents, especially if you’ve always loved the look of wood for interior design.
Laminate Flooring is a Low-Cost Alternative
Laminate flooring has evolved dramatically during the past decade. It used to be that laminate flooring was your flooring choice if you wanted something inexpensive, and also didn’t mind if your new floor didn’t look so good after only a couple of year’s use and abuse. Now, Great American Flooring offers contemporary laminate flooring that looks better, lasts longer, is more damage-resistant and is easier to maintain than its predecessors.
How Can You Customize Your Laminate Flooring?
The beauty of installing laminate flooring is that it’s easy to choose any features you want for your home’s interior design style.
Color:
Light oak, dark walnut, deep cherry, and other wood tones are just a few of the possibilities. Many contemporary homes use neutral grays and whitewashed wood floors.
Appearance:
There are also laminate floors that perfectly imitate the look and feel of stone, marble, ceramic tile, and other elegant materials. This gives you a lot of flexibility for different rooms of the house, and professional laminate flooring contractors in Wichita, KS tie everything together beautifully.
Wood Design:
Whether your home looks great with a sleek floor, distressed wood, or hand-scraped appearance, you can find exactly what you’re looking for.
Artistic flair:
Do you want to infuse your home with elements of 1970s style? Choosing laminate flooring lets you decorate floors with colorful patterns, from large rectangles to chic polka dots.
Finish:
Some homeowners prefer a matte style with its laid-back, country atmosphere. Floors with a brilliant sheen look contemporary and sophisticated.
Patterns:
This is something laminate floors do exceptionally well and for much less than hardwood. Herringbone or other patterns — are popular and our installers are qualified and ready to make that special look just for your floors!
How Can You Take Care of Your Laminate Floor?
Like many floor covering products, laminates require a little maintenance to keep them looking good. It is essential that laminates be kept clean. Dirt, sand, or even small, hard particles of dirt can scratch the surface in high traffic areas. It is also critical to keep laminates dry. Standing water can warp or swell the product. When it comes to placing furniture on laminate, protective pads on the feet will also avoid scratching and keep the surface looking great.
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As with many products, not all laminates are created equal. Some inferior brands will look like a cheap imitation of the stone or wood they are supposed to emulate, and poor manufacturing can cause some laminates to separate, leaving gaps between the planks.
How Can You Choose the Right Laminate Flooring Contractor?
The fact is that most Wichita, Kansas area laminate flooring installers have access to the same flooring materials. So your decision about hiring a company should really come down to two key areas.
Consultation
- Do you know exactly what you’re looking for, or would you like to work with a professional floor consultant (at no cost)?
- Does your project have any peculiarities or nuances that must be considered at the outset? (Remember, professional flooring consultants and installers will see things you will not. Expertise is critical!)
- Have you considered how your new laminate floor will integrate with your existing home décor?
Customer Service
- On-time estimates
- On-time scheduling
- Installation by professional craftsmen
Laminate Flooring Installation in Wichita, KS
Picking out the right laminate flooring requires thoughtful consideration of its durability, design, ease of upkeep, and warranty. You should delve into the specific thicknesses, wear layers, and finishes that could best accommodate your place and way of life. Equally important is securing an expert installer in Wichita, Kansas. Online reviews or recommendations from people you trust could direct you towards experienced professionals delivering quality workmanship without breaking the bank. Remember, hunting for the right design is just like taking your senses on a tour through a market—take your time and savor the process. This will lead you to make sound decisions for your space.
Choosing the Right Laminate Flooring in Wichita, KS
Consider several key factors when selecting the perfect laminate flooring for your home.
- Durability: It's crucial for your laminate flooring to withstand the test of time, especially in high-traffic areas. Look for products with a high AC rating, indicating their ability to endure expected wear and tear.
- Design Options: With a wide variety of patterns and colors available, some even resembling natural hardwood or stone, it's important to consider what style will best complement your home's existing decor and reflect your personal taste.
- Ease of Maintenance: Selecting a low-maintenance option is essential to avoid spending hours scrubbing floors. Look for laminate flooring with finishes that resist scratches, dents, and stains, making cleaning a breeze.
- Warranty Coverage: A good warranty serves as a safety net, providing coverage for unexpected defects or issues that may arise after installation. For peace of mind, check to see if the manufacturer offers a warranty and what it includes.
When focusing on durability, consider the laminate's thickness and wear layer. Thicker laminate panels are generally more stable and less likely to warp or create an uneven surface, making them ideal for heavy-use areas like kitchens. The wear layer is crucial, as it determines how well the flooring can handle scuffs, scratches, and other damage. The thicker the wear layer, the better protection it provides for everyday use. Moreover, explore different finishes, such as embossed, textured, or hand-scraped options, to find a look that suits your style. An embossed finish adds depth and texture to mimic natural wood grains, while a hand-scraped finish gives the appearance of authentic hardwood flooring.
At Great American Flooring, we offer different laminate flooring options to help match your style and needs. By carefully considering these factors and thoroughly researching the different brands and styles available, you will find the right laminate flooring that not only enhances your home's aesthetics but also stands up to your daily demands.
Identifying Expert Laminate Flooring Installers in Wichita, KS
Choosing the perfect laminate floor for your space is only half the battle; the other half is finding a skilled professional to flawlessly install it. Accurate, meticulous installation plays a significant role in the overall durability and appearance of laminate flooring. Here are some valuable pointers on identifying expert installers right here in Wichita, KS.
The first step is to research online reviews and testimonials from previous customers. Honest feedback from others who have used the installer’s services can provide valuable insight into their workmanship, reliability, and customer service. A high number of positive reviews might indicate consistent quality work and satisfied customers. Additionally, seek recommendations from your local community. Seek trusted referrals from friends, family members, or neighbors who have recently installed laminate flooring. Their firsthand experience with installers can help guide you toward reputable professionals known for their craftsmanship and professionalism.Â
When evaluating potential installers, look for relevant certifications and experience in handling laminate flooring projects. Certifications can serve as indicators of an installer's commitment to quality and ongoing education in their field. Moreover, experience working specifically with laminate flooring demonstrates expertise and familiarity with the nuances of this particular material. It is also vital to ensure that the installer offers a guarantee on their workmanship. A guarantee adds extra security, demonstrating the installer's commitment to stand behind their work and providing peace of mind in the event of any post-installation issues.
Great American Flooring is a trusted laminate flooring installer in Wichita, KS. Contact our team today to learn more!
Budgeting for Your Flooring Project
When planning your budget for a flooring project, it's essential to understand and consider all the costs involved. It's not just about the cost of the laminate flooring itself; there are other vital expenses to keep in mind.
- Materials: The cost of laminate flooring varies depending on the brand, quality, and quantity you need. Buying a little more than what you think you need is advisable, as it helps in case of measurement errors or future repairs.
- Labor: Hiring professional installers is crucial for a successful project. The cost of labor may vary depending on the job's complexity, area size, and any additional services required, such as the removal of old flooring or subfloor preparation.
- Additional Services: As previously mentioned, it's important to consider any additional services that may be required during the installation process. These could include floor preparation, removing existing flooring materials, or even unexpected issues that may arise during the installation process.
Quote Comparison: Contact multiple laminate flooring installers to obtain quotes and compare prices. This step will assist you not only in understanding market rates but also in assessing each installer's service offerings.
The Significance of Hiring Professional Services
Installing laminate flooring is a multifaceted task that demands precision and skill. Professional flooring services are essential to ensure a smooth installation with a keen eye for detail and expertise, even though some may consider tackling it as a DIY project. Laminate flooring can be unforgiving during installation; any mistakes made can result in costly replacements down the line. Entrusting this task to professionals is more than just a convenience; it's a smart investment in the longevity and aesthetic appeal of your flooring.
Opting for professional installation services has several notable advantages. Professionals like Great American Flooring bring years of experience, translating into a comprehensive understanding of the nuances and challenges associated with laminate flooring installation. They possess the necessary tools and techniques, honed through practical experience, guaranteeing an efficient and flawless execution of the task. Having an expert manage the process ensures peace of mind, as they handle every aspect of the installation with precision, care, and adherence to industry standards.
Avoiding common pitfalls related to laminate flooring installation is another significant benefit of hiring professionals. They have encountered and surmounted numerous challenges throughout their career, allowing them to navigate potential obstacles seamlessly. Their efficient troubleshooting and resolution of unexpected issues guarantee the correct installation of your flooring from the outset, thereby reducing the likelihood of future complications or structural flaws. In addition to their expertise and skillset, professional installers often provide guarantees on their workmanship. This assurance serves as a safeguard against any unforeseen issues post-installation, offering reassurance that you're getting quality service and durable results.
The significance of professional services becomes apparent when considering not just the immediate impact but also the long-term implications for the durability and functionality of your laminate flooring. The investment in professional services for laminate flooring installation assures not just immediate quality but also long-term durability and peace of mind. It's a decision that pays off on a beautiful and durable floor. If you’re looking for a professional laminate flooring installation service in Wichita, KS, call our team at Great American Flooring today!