Quality laminate flooring can be used in kitchens and is a better choice than solid flooring due to its water-resistant properties. But since the kitchen is a semi-humid and heavy-traffic area, there are a few features you should look for if you want your kitchen floors to last.
The most important criterion to look for is a thick wear layer, because the thicker the wear layer, the more durable the floor is. The laminate’s engineered, extra-strong coating makes it extremely scratch and stain resistant. It also provides waterproofing, a basic requirement for your kitchen flooring.
The more durable laminate is also subjected to high pressure lamination (HPL), which compresses and bonds the layers more effectively, resulting in a harder, stronger and more durable floor.
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Is laminate flooring suitable for kitchens?
Laminate is a suitable flooring option for kitchens. However, since kitchens are semi-humid rooms and laminate has a wood composite core, you will need to apply some care and maintenance to prevent water damage. It is very important to choose a laminate flooring that is extremely water resistant. Ensuring the right application is also very important. To prevent moisture from penetrating into the core of the laminate, the joints between the plates must be very tight and without gaps. You can also glue the joints between the planks to make your laminate floors more water resistant. Even high-quality, durable laminate flooring can be subject to water damage if not applied and maintained properly.
How to lay laminate flooring in the kitchen?
Laminate flooring is easy to install, especially when compared to alternative flooring materials such as stone or ceramic tiles. How to lay the laminate in your kitchen depends on the product you choose. In most cases, laminate floors come with a tongue and groove system that requires you to fasten the planks together. And in any case, you will need a flat, clean floor on which to lay your laminate flooring.
Learn more about how to install your laminate floors.
Is laminate water resistant?
Although laminate is not waterproof, it is a very durable and water resistant flooring product. Spills need to be cleaned up immediately to prevent liquid from leaking into the locking system and causing floors to warp. You can minimize the risk of water damage by sealing the joints between the plates with a silicone sealant. This increases your floor’s water resistance and is therefore recommended in areas with high humidity levels, such as kitchens.
How to care for laminate flooring in the kitchen?
Keeping laminate floors in the kitchen hygienically clean is as simple as following a few basic steps. All you have to do daily is to wipe them down with a soft broom or microfiber mop. For a more intensive cleaning, use a damp mop or cloth containing warm water and a mild detergent once a week.