In the past, when you thought of a floor that added polish and panache to your home, you may have had your heart set on wood. If you’re in Pietermaritzburg, and you’re looking for a hardworking floor that is less expensive, looks similar and is more eco-friendly, one of your best bets is to seriously think about installing laminate flooring in Pietermaritzburg. One of the considerations with wood is its susceptibility to swelling in rainy and humid conditions – wood is a grain that retains moisture in its cells from the time it has been cut or felled – but with laminate flooring, this is not a concern.

What exactly is laminate flooring?

Laminate flooring is designed to look, feel and sound like wood, minus the cost.

It is a breed of durable, highly tested and satisfying artificial flooring. Several layers of material are fused together to produce the perfect finish for laminate flooring in Pietermaritzburg. The fusion results from heat, adhesive and pressure in a process known as lamination, which is where this underfoot covering option gets its name. Resins, fiberboard materials and a moisture barrier back layer are fused together. The top, visible layer is comprised of an aluminum oxide chemical treatment.

Unlike wood, your laminate flooring in Pietermaritzburg will be stain resistant – simply wipe off stains with water, cleaning agents and an absorbent cloth.

Some considerations when choosing your laminate flooring in Pietermaritzburg

• Do your research online, but go to the store to make your actual choice. Ensure that the colour and pattern matches your existing décor.
• Do not just check if there is a warrant (any quality laminate product will come with one), but what the exact ambit of that warranty is. Check that the warranty covers moisture damage as this is critical given the Pietermaritzburg climate.
• The quality of the materials used, the thickness of the various layers and the correct installation will make your laminate a tough, durable product. A flooring company should be able to give you detailed advice on installation, whether you are going for a DIY option or will pay the flooring company to install it professionally.
• Laminate flooring is moisture resistant but should not be used in ‘wet’ areas – choose tiles instead for the bathroom or kitchen.
• Rugs at entrances are a good idea so your beautiful laminate floor avoids the scruff, dust and tear from fresh-from-outside shoe undersoles.