Laminate is a type of manufactured timber made from thin sheets of substrates (resin bound sawdust or wood particles) or wood veneer. It is similar to the more widely used plywood, except that it has a polymer, protective layer on one or both sides.
Laminate is used instead of plywood because of its resistance to impact, weather, moisture, shattering in cold (ductility), and chemicals.
Laminate layers are glued together under heat and/or pressure, and if using natural wood veneers, with adjacent plies having their grain at right angles to each other for greater strength. The plastic layer(s) added for protection vary in composition, thickness, color and texture according to the application (including flooring).
For many of us, when it comes to flooring choices, the concept of practical or pragmatic resonates strongly—as well as what constitutes value, functionality, and good sense. And laminate flooring fits this definition perfectly.
That's why manufacturers went to the trouble to create laminate flooring products. These engineered flooring products are composed of a strong, durable, multilayered substrate, which is occasionally topped with a veneer of real hardwood, making it indistinguishable, even by experts, from solid hardwood.
Even more economical are some of the amazing new laminate floors that have no hardwood at all. They use non-repetitive, photorealistic images that are protected from wear and scratches by a tough polymer coating.
Whether they are made from plywood for the natural "give" of real wood, or layers of polymer composite, they are far less costly than solid wood but provide many years of service while maintaining their good looks. Quite often they contain green material, meaning that plastics and resins have been thoughtfully recycled, making them a very environmentally sensitive and responsible choice.
Some laminate flooring possesses textured surfaces that replicate the appearance and feel of well-aged hardwood, complete with little hills and valleys.
This enhancement is very convincing to the eye. Instead of glass-smooth, the artificial variations will leave guests unable to decide if it is hardwood or a synthetic, which is the whole idea.
From ancient White or Red Oak, to Ebony, to Knotty Pine, Mahogany, or the latest fashion, Bamboo—nothing is out of the question. There are so many choices that it is obligatory to come and visit our Flooring Showroom in Houston to see the hundreds of choices for yourself.