What is Laminate Flooring?
Laminate flooring consists of multiple layers of synthetic product that is fused together in a lamination process. It mimics wood underneath a photographic applique layer which lies under a clear protective layer. The inner core is typically comprised of fiber board materials. Below is a breakdown of the individual layers:
Wear Layer:
The wear layer helps to protect the flooring from scratches, staining, and dents. It is embossed with the texture of your choosing, such as wood.
Decorative Layer:
This is the layer that contains the print or pattern of the decoration. The decoration may be a pattern, such as a chevron or floral design, or it can be the material the floor is mimicking, like stone.
Core Layer:
This layer is made from compressed medium-density fiberboard or HDF. It provides the floor with stability and durability. It is made to resist water but isn’t altogether waterproof.
Backing Layer:
This layer is basically the base of the laminate flooring. It helps provide stability for the floor and also assists in keeping water from coming in from underneath.
Construction:
There are two degrees laminate flooring is made in. High-Pressure Laminate (HPL) is created by using 1000 pounds of pressure to withstand the maximum foot traffic.
Direct Pressure Laminate, or DPL, uses 300 to 500 pounds of pressure to create it. It is best used in areas that don’t experience an abundance of foot traffic such as a kitchen that isn’t used a lot.