The Reno Superstore always emphasizes selecting the right flooring material for your home or business. After all, with so many options available, it can be hard.
We always ask our customers to choose flooring based on their needs, lifestyle and budget. We also encourage you to learn about the flooring you plan to install; that way, you can make the best decision for your home.
So, if you have been checking flooring options recently and have settled upon laminate flooring for your Toronto home, there are a few things to consider.
In this post, we learn both the benefits and disadvantages of installing laminate flooring in Toronto so that you can make an informed decision.
Let’s get started.
Choosing Laminate Flooring for Your Toronto Home
Laminate flooring has been around for a long time and is one of the most popular options. But do you know everything you need to make a good purchase?
First, what is laminate flooring?
Laminate flooring is a type of synthetic flooring where the base layer is made up of a plywood or fiberwood core, and the top layer is made up of an image layer (usually a high-resolution image). The top layer is then given a transparent coating to protect it from damage. This composition provides laminate flooring the ability to mimic other popular flooring materials, such as hardwood, tile, or stone.
What Are the Benefits of Laminate Flooring in Toronto?
The Pros
Installing laminate flooring in your Toronto home may have a lot of benefits. Let’s find out what they are.
1. It is highly durable
Whenever you are considering any flooring, durability is a must. Luckily, laminate flooring is strong enough to work well in low to high-traffic areas. Before buying laminate, you should go through our comprehensive laminate buying guide and decide accordingly.
If you are looking for something to resist everyday wear and tear, then laminate flooring is ideal. When installed properly, it can last a long time. Please note that laminate flooring has different ratings. It is recommended that you buy AC4 or AC5-rated laminate flooring products for high-traffic areas of your home or office.
We suggest investing in high-quality laminate flooring from Fuzion Flooring, Canadian Standard, or other reputable brands to ensure further product durability.
2. It is affordable
Budget is an important deciding factor for all your home renovation projects. So, it is advisable to have a realistic budget and stick to it. Have you always desired hardwood floors, but the cost is out of your price range? No need to feel bad; laminate flooring is an excellent substitute for traditional hardwood flooring and a cost-effective one.
Compared to a lot of flooring, such as hardwood, stone, and tiles, laminate offers the same look at a fraction of the cost. If you have budget considerations, choose laminate flooring for your Toronto home.
The price of laminate flooring depends on the wear layer’s thickness and the print layer’s quality. So, you can expect the price to be between $3 and $10 per square foot (for high-end products). Again, prices of laminate flooring in Toronto or elsewhere will depend on the quality of the product, the brand, and the thickness of the product. Please ask our experts online or at our store if you have any questions regarding price.
3. It is easy to maintain
Any seasoned homeowner will tell you that they prefer low-maintenance products. No one wants to spend a lot of time keeping their floors clean. In that way, laminate flooring is a blessing, as it is very easy to clean. Regular dusting with a soft broom, vacuuming, and damp-cloth cleaning are enough to maintain them.
It is important to keep in mind that laminate flooring is not waterproof, and prolonged exposure to moisture or water can result in problems with the flooring, such as swelling.
4. It is highly scratch and stain-resistant
Do you live in a busy home with children and pets? Then, you know how frequent scuffs and spills are on the floorboard. You can rest easy with laminate flooring, as these floors offer good protection against scratches and stains.
It is also somewhat resistant to dents, and since it’s easy to clean, it offers better protection against stubborn stains than other materials. Look for laminate flooring from Fuzion and other reputable brands, as these offer improved protection thanks to their aluminum oxide coating.
5. It is hypoallergenic
If you are looking for hypoallergenic flooring within your budget, then laminate flooring is a good idea. Laminate flooring is safe and does not cause allergies since it is safe and easy to clean.
Be sure to check if the flooring product you are installing is FloorScore certified or has other certifications that ensure it does not release harmful VOCs. Have questions? Ask our experts about the laminate flooring product you like.
The Cons
Just like any other flooring product, laminate has some disadvantages.
1. It is vulnerable to moisture
Laminate flooring, for all its benefits, is very susceptible to moisture. Therefore, it cannot be installed in high-moisture areas of your home or office, such as bathrooms or laundry rooms.
As explained above, prolonged exposure to moisture leads to the swelling of laminate flooring planks and causes permanent damage. Please make sure that you understand this before installing it.
2. It is not repairable
Unlike hardwood flooring, laminate flooring cannot be refinished or repaired. When tiles or planks are damaged, they can be removed or repaired, but once laminate flooring is damaged, it cannot be repaired and needs to be replaced entirely.
3. It does not improve resale value
Want a fair appraisal for your property before you put your house up for sale? Laminate flooring will not improve its market value.
It is crucial to consider your needs before installing any kind of floor. Please think about your desired project outcome before choosing a floor type.
FAQ
Can laminate flooring be put down over already installed floors?
Perhaps. If the subfloor is smooth and in good condition, laminate flooring can frequently be installed over pre-existing flooring like vinyl or hardwood. It is crucial to install products according to manufacturer recommendations.
Are laminate floors environmentally friendly?
Laminate flooring may be environmentally friendly depending on the manufacturer and the materials employed. Many laminates are certified by agencies like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), and some are made from sustainable materials.
Do I need a professional to install laminate flooring, or can I do it myself?
Installing laminate flooring could be a DIY project for those with some handy skills. However, professional installation is advised for the best results, especially in complex situations or for customers with no prior experience. The Reno Superstore offers laminate flooring installation in Toronto and nearby areas.
Does laminate flooring work well in homes with animals?
As mentioned, laminate flooring can be used in homes with pets due to its resistance to stains and scratches. Pets, however, may find it slippery, so think about adding rugs or mats for traction.
What is the typical lifespan of laminate flooring?
The durability of laminate flooring varies with its quality and levels of use and maintenance. If properly maintained, it typically lasts 10 to 30 years or more.
Is underlayment required for the installation of laminate flooring?
Typically, underlayment is advised when installing laminate flooring. It helps give the laminate a smoother surface and protects against moisture and sound. For specific underlayment requirements for the laminate product you have chosen, consult the manufacturer’s instructions.
There is no doubt that the benefits of laminate flooring greatly outweigh its drawbacks. Is it a good fit for your home? You should consider whether it fits your space’s needs in terms of your lifestyle, finances, and requirements. If so, laminate flooring may be an excellent choice for your Toronto home. Do not hesitate to contact us if you have any inquiries or concerns. The Reno Superstore provides Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area with high-quality laminate flooring from Fuzion Flooring and other brands at competitive prices. Start your online shopping today!