Laminated Floors

[birdie73]

Have looked at a property with laminated wood floors, can someone please tell me something abuot them eg durability, cleaning, warmth etc. I am obviously used to carpets so have an element of doubt.

[jno]

I think durability may vary according to what sort you get. Warmth: less than carpet, more than the tiles on concrete we used to have. Cleaning: much easier than carpet, but marks may show when they catch the light so it's not a spotless existence. Much better than carpet when you're spilling wine etc.

[AlBags]

You get exactly what you pay for.
Buy the best you can afford, and stay away from laminates with very thin veneers.

[Vagrant]

They're noisy to people below.

[birdie73]

Thanks jno it's difficult to make a decision when unsure about something.

[birdie73]

Thanks also to AlBags & Vagrant, not actually thinking of laying them but have viewed a property where they already exist.

[AlBags]

If laid in a damp area, kitchen or bathroom, expect to replace every few years then. Laminated timber on MDF does NOT like permanent damp underneath.

[Jemisa]

We moved into a property last year with the same problem. (not a prob really)
We like it, just get a big dust mop & go over a couple of times a week and get some lovely rugs and the whole thing looks fab.

Go for it birdie. Good Luck

jem

[Twenty20]

There are problems though. If you get a spillage or even a slight leak from a radiator etc it can make the edges of the laminate lift because of the wet after which it breaks off easily. Replacing individual boards is quite tricky as they are tongued and grooved (they all slot together).

I've had laminate flooring previously, and laid it in a few properties, but I don't think I would again. It wouldn't put me off buying a property with this type of flooring but it wouldn't be my first choice. It is easy to clean though.

[birdie73]

Thanks AIBags, Jemisa & Twenty20 for your help & advice all I have to do now is to talk my husband into liking it.!!!!.