barlinek parquet flooring
From Homes to Businesses: How to
Choose and Install Laminate Flooring for Every Space
Laminate floors are the
perfect combination of design and functionality. Always ready for all kinds of
uses, and with a wide range of styles and finishes, you can create an infinite
number of atmospheres and spaces. This post will explore the versatility, uses,
and installation of laminate flooring to help you make an informed choice for
your next project.
Uses of laminate
The versatility of laminate
is undeniably another of its strong points. It can be installed almost
anywhere: homes, offices, commercial buildings, schools, etc.
Residential space
Laminate is very suitable
for domestic use and can be installed in any room: living room, bedroom,
hallway... It is an ideal option for homes with children and pets. Unlike real
parquet, it can even be used in damp rooms, such as the kitchen, laundry room,
or bathroom. For instance, 9.5mm
laminate flooring is a great choice for these areas due to its
durability and moisture resistance. You must, of course, choose a waterproof
model with joints that ensure perfect sealing.
You can also combine some
laminate flooring models with a low-temperature underfloor heating system
(maximum 27 °C). This concerns hot water heating systems and electric systems,
as well as cooling substrates. However, make sure to use a suitable underlay to
achieve a total thermal resistance of < 0.09 m² K/W.
Commercial spaces
Laminate flooring is also
suitable for professional use; it can be installed in premises such as shops,
offices, hotels, restaurants, etc. It is also an ideal material for communities
and public places of all kinds, to which it brings charm and warmth. For a
stylish and durable option, Elka
parquet flooring is often recommended for commercial environments
due to its high-quality finish.
Be careful; however, you
must choose a model that can withstand frequent traffic. To do this, do not
hesitate to consult the classifications, including the AC classification, which
measures the resistance of laminate floors to wear. Laminates classified as AC4
are suitable for commercial use with medium traffic frequency, such as
boutiques and small businesses. Laminates classified as AC5 are suitable for
premises with high traffic frequencies, such as restaurants. Laminates
classified as AC6 can be installed in areas with high traffic, such as supermarkets
or airport terminals.
Home Improvement and DIY Projects
While laminate is popular
in new builds, it is also perfect for renovations. As already mentioned, this
type of flooring can be laid over other flooring, such as tiles, carpet,
linoleum flooring, or even old laminate. If you’re considering a warm
aesthetic, barlinek
parquet flooring provides a rich, natural look that complements
various interior styles.
Laminate flooring can be
installed by a specialist, but it can also be done by yourself. You can use it
for small DIY jobs, such as covering the floor of a dressing room or fitting
out an office area.
Choosing the right laminate
If you want an aesthetic
floor that lasts, choosing the right floor covering is essential. Here's how to
do it.
Needs assessment
Before you start selecting
your flooring, you need to assess your needs. Think about the use you are going
to make of it, the style of decoration of the room in question, its level of
brightness, etc. For example, if you're aiming for a bold statement, consider red
tone laminate flooring for a vibrant touch that can energize your space.
Ask yourself the right
questions. Does your flooring need to be water-resistant? Does it need to
withstand heavy traffic? Do you need extra insulation?
Also, don't forget to
factor in your budget, including the cost of installation if you're not doing
it yourself.
Feature Selection
Once your needs have been
identified, you can determine the characteristics that your covering must have:
its design and format, its thickness, its compatibility with underfloor
heating, its water resistance, its usage class (AC classification), etc.
Coordinating with other decor
elements
Technical criteria are of
capital importance when choosing your laminate flooring, but aesthetic criteria
should not be neglected either. It is important that your floor fits well with
the decoration of your room and highlights it.
In a classic interior, for
example, you can install laminate imitation oak parquet in a light color. In a
more modern space, it is possible to opt for a floor with a more marked
character, imitation concrete, or dark wood look. The aged wood decor will
match well a rustic-style house, while the bleached effect will be perfect for
a Scandinavian interior. Additionally, 9.5mm laminate flooring offers a sturdy option
that enhances the overall decor.
Laminate Installation
Installing laminate
flooring is within the reach of any good DIYer.
Soil preparation
Laying laminate begins with
preparing the floor. Even though this covering can be installed on almost any
type of support, the latter must still be sound, clean, and level. Otherwise,
leveling may be necessary.
The installation of a
soundproofing underlay is mandatory. Moreover, this can also make it possible
to compensate for a difference in level of 2 to 3 mm. A vapor barrier is also
required in the case of installation on an uninsulated ground floor or without
a crawl space, on heated floors, and directly on cement-based screeds.
Step-by-step instructions
Laminate flooring is
installed using the so-called "floating" technique, without nails or
glue. Each board is equipped with clips that allow it to be connected to other
boards.
It is advised to start by
laying the first board in a corner of the room and placing the tongue on the
wall side. Then, snap the second board into place by clipping it with the end
of the first so that it can easily be inserted into the groove. Continue in
this way until the end of the space to be fitted out while making sure to leave
an expansion space between the wall and the parquet around the entire periphery
(for this, it is possible to use a set of shims).
Tips for a professional and
lasting result
Although installing
laminate is relatively simple, knowing certain tips is nevertheless necessary
for a quality result.
First, allow for 10% more
flooring area to compensate for the cuts.
Secondly, before
installation, remember to mix the blades from the different packs to harmonize
the color variations.
Choose the direction of
installation carefully; this way, you can highlight the advantages of your room
and minimize its disadvantages.
For a perfect finish,
install the skirting boards, which will hide the cuts and the expansion space.
To summarize
Laminate flooring is a good choice for both
residential and business settings due to its adaptability, durability, and
aesthetic appeal. It's ideal for any project because it supports a variety of
conditions and has simple installation procedures. Consider visiting Floor Land
to locate the ideal flooring solution for your needs.
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