Types of laminate

When performing repair work in a home or office, in warehouses, everyone strives to achieve the best result for less money. Laminate is very popular for flooring. This is a very high-quality and practical material that will last you a long time, but only if you select it correctly and comply with the appropriate operating conditions. Let's consider what kind of laminate there is, what are its characteristics, classification and what are the differences.

Types of laminate

This type of material can often be found both in homes and offices; it is also actively used in the design of shopping centers and other premises. This is justified by performance characteristics. It is worth understanding that manufacturers offer simply a huge selection of this type of product and when choosing it for specific purposes, you need to understand its varieties.

Unusual use

Construction-technical laminate is used for formwork. It is difficult for an ordinary person to understand what it is and it is very unusual to hear such a concept as “construction laminate,” but it exists and is actively used by builders.Its scope is quite diverse:

• Execution of formwork.
• Construction of temporary partitions.
• Creation of decorative elements in the interior.

REFERENCE. Positive characteristics include excellent operational parameters and reduced fire hazard characteristics.

In construction, laminate is most often used in the form of slabs; it is much more convenient to work with.

Laminate is not for flooring - it's convenient

Laminate furniture is made of chipboard sheets, which are covered on both sides with a special film. Among the advantages of this type of material is the ability to resist moisture. Widely used in the manufacture of furniture for both office and residential premises.

REFERENCE. This material is easy to process, which allows you to significantly expand the scope of its application.

Laminate flooring

This type of material is the most common. This is a multi-layer coating made of wood fibers, and a protective layer is applied on top.

Types of laminate by class

To make the right choice when purchasing this material, you need to study all its characteristics. This does not mean that you will have to pick up special literature and study its characteristics.

1. Class 21,22,23. Having seen the material of this class, you can conclude that it is suitable for use in rooms where there is no high load, where the humidity level is normal. These could be bedrooms, dressing rooms.
2. Class 31–33 indicates that the material can be used in rooms where there is increased load and there is also a high traffic volume of people.
3. Class 34 is characterized by increased strength.This material is able to maintain its basic parameters declared by the manufacturer, even during prolonged use in conditions of high moisture and not deform. It has the highest level of abrasion resistance. This is an excellent solution for arranging floors in hotel lobbies, clinics, and conference rooms.
4. Class 42, 43 are not produced for widespread use, but only by direct order from the manufacturer. It has improved characteristics. It is used in facilities where high demands are placed on the quality of flooring.

Parameters regarding moisture resistance

According to this criterion:

• Moisture resistant. This material is in most cases in demand in dining rooms, shower rooms and other similar types of premises. Thanks to additional processing with resins and wax.
• Water resistant. This material can easily withstand contact with water for a long period of time. By treating the joints, the likelihood of moisture getting under the base of the laminate is prevented.

Installation features are an important criterion

Previously, laminate was attached to the base using special glue. Modern manufacturers offer more convenient options for fastening this type of flooring. This allows you to lay the panels quickly, accurately and efficiently.

Both types of locking connections are in demand, as they are very convenient to use and perform well in operation.

What surface type can tell you

When considering the varieties of this type of flooring, it is worth considering such a criterion as the texture of the top layer. The appearance of the floor covering largely depends on it.

Classic

If you touch such a surface, you will be able to feel its smoothness. In order to give the boards more naturalness and naturalness, manufacturers make barely noticeable lines and dimples. This is done in order to replicate the pores of the wood.

Aged wood

Any wood products that are exposed to the street for a long period of time will certainly age. They are different from new wood. In order to make the laminate look like aged wood, manufacturers create noticeable irregularities on the surface, which are specially smoothed out in order to ensure convenient operation.

Gloss

You've probably seen perfectly smooth and shiny flooring in some offices or homes. This flooring will look great in the kitchen space, adding extra shine to the interior. Externally, the floor covering can be compared to wooden boards that are well-opened with varnish.

textured surface

Manufacturers offer flooring in which wood fibers appear on the surface. This solution allows you to create an artificial material that is as close in appearance as possible to natural material. A slightly visible effect allows you to achieve a stunning effect.

Relief

In order to replicate the roughness of the natural material, thin lines in the form of indentations are made on the base of the boards.

Laminate shape

There are several forms of this type of flooring. Consider the features of the main ones.

1. Rectangular board. Most often in construction stores you can find rectangular boards. Their length can vary from 1.5 to 2 m.This is an excellent option if you are faced with the task of laying the floor in a room with a large area. The execution process will happen very quickly, especially if you choose material with high-quality and comfortable locks.
2. Square shape. In order to be able to create complex patterns, many manufacturers produce laminate in the form of tiles. It’s worth noting right away that this option is more expensive than its rectangular counterpart. When laying it there is no need to use a substrate. Installation is much simpler and more convenient than working with rectangular segments. If you have to face the need to repair such a floor covering, then everything will be more complicated, you will have to tinker.

Based on the information provided about this type of flooring like laminate, you can study all the features of each of them. Only after this will it be possible to purchase a truly high-quality product that will meet your requirements.