Laminate Flooring Installation Contractor Serving Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania and Surrounding Areas

Laminate flooring comprises multiple layers of synthetic materials fused with a lamination process. Vinyl flooring is made from a single layer of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and has a photographic applique layer on the surface.

Laminate flooring is a composite material that includes wood chips or shavings, resin, and paper. The top layer is a printed design that simulates the look of wood, stone, or tile.

There are many advantages of laminate flooring. It is durable, as there is a robust external layer and resin coating. Laminate flooring is scratch, impact, stain, fade, and moisture resistant and can last longer than its counterparts. It can stand up well to high traffic, kids, and pets.

Laminate flooring is also easy to maintain and keep clean due to its superior resistance to stains and moisture. Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean any spills or marks. No need to use any special cleaner and a routine sweep or vacuum are enough to clear dirt and dust.

Laminate flooring is an economical flooring option over hardwood. It is available in different price ranges, gives off a beautiful appearance, and is easy to install.

Laminate flooring is also available in a wide variety of styles and finishes. You can find it in different thicknesses, colors, and surface treatments.

The AC, or Abrasion Class rating, measures the durability and strength of laminate flooring, meaning how well it will withstand daily wear. It ranges from 1 to 6 to signify the suitability of laminate flooring for moderate, general, or high traffic. The higher the AC rating, the more durable and stronger the laminate flooring will be.

Laminate is affordable, durable, easy to clean, can withstand moisture and water, is available in an array of options, and can withstand spills and traffic, making it a good option for kitchen flooring. You can easily find laminate flooring to match the kitchen decor. Ensure to choose only waterproof laminate flooring for the kitchen and maintain it regularly.

Not all laminate floors are waterproof, and improper cleaning techniques can cause irreversible damage to the flooring. You can mop the laminate floors that are not waterproof, but with caution, as excessive water can weaken adhesive and cause the flooring to lift or bubble. Use a slightly dampened microfiber mop and a cleaning solution specifically meant for laminate flooring or a mixture of water and distilled vinegar to wipe down the floor. Drain the mop as needed to prevent the flooring from becoming too wet. You can wipe the floor with a dry cloth or allow it to dry naturally.

Even the best laminate floor can look dull, dirty, or streaky due to improper cleaning products, lack of maintenance, and dust and dirt build-up. Do not use abrasive cleaning tools, always sweep with a microfiber mop, vacuum regularly, clean spills immediately, use floor mats, avoid water and other wet cleaning methods, and use protective pads for furniture to ensure your laminate floors shine and look the best always.

Laying down laminate flooring is a straightforward process but requires careful preparation to help it last longer. Before installing, acclimate laminate flooring to the temperature and moisture conditions. Prepare the subfloor properly to ensure it is clear and smooth for installation, and perform required repairs. Also, prepare the door jambs to protect them from damage. Install the underlayment before laying down the laminate planks. Choose the correct underlayment depending on the subfloor. 

After installing the underlay, begin laying down the plank. Star with the longest wall or the wall with any focal point. Install the first row by placing the plank with the tongue side facing the wall, continue placing the planks, and when the first row is done install the remaining rows. 

Do not forget to leave adequate gaps around walls to allow the flooring to expand and contract over time. Place spacers along the walls for consistent gaps around the floor edges. After installation, remove the spacers and add finishing touches by installing thresholds and baseboards around the room.

If your laminate floors have lost their original shine, you can get them back using different methods. A simple and inexpensive way is to use vinegar and water. Sweep and vacuum the floor service to remove any dirt, dust, or debris. Mix vinegar and water in equal quantities and put the mixture in a spray bottle. Spray a little amount of this mixture on small floor sections and use a microfiber cloth to mop. Repeat the process until the whole floor looks clean, and allow it to air dry. It will help restore the shine of the laminate flooring.

Modern laminate flooring is durable and comfortable. Most laminate flooring products now available are suitable for almost every room in the house, including basements, living rooms, and kids' rooms. However, experts suggest laminate flooring installations in rooms with more stable climatic conditions. Some experts recommend against installing laminate flooring in high-moisture areas like laundry rooms, bathrooms, or places that may require wet mopping to prevent swelling and warping. Contact a local flooring contractor to understand which rooms in your home are most suitable for laminate flooring installation.