Laminate flooring from Avalon Wood Flooring in Santa Ana, CA

Five tips for choosing laminate flooring

Laminate flooring is a wood-based product that feels comfortable underfoot. Planks mimic hardwood while tiles imitate hardwood, ceramic, and stone. This budget-friendly floor covering resists stains, scratches, and spills. Planks and tiles are usually designed to click together and lock so the floor floats above the subfloor. Therefore, flooring can be installed over a concrete slab in the basement and existing flooring. Avalon Wood Flooring offers top quality laminate flooring in Santa Ana, California. Our online flooring gallery presents the brands we carry.


AC Rating


Manufacturers use tests to determine the durability of each type of laminate. Tests measure abrasion; burn, impact resistance, and stain resistance; and swelling under moist conditions. Then an AC (abrasion class) rating is assigned. Look for brands with an AC3 rating.


Standard vs waterproof


Waterproof laminate may be appropriate for your needs, but it is best not to overestimate its water-repelling performance. Brands are warrantied for a specific amount of time, usually about one day. After that time, standing water may damage the flooring.


Finishes


Multi-layer laminate flooring has a clear surface layer that offers an attractive finish that resists fading, staining, and wear. A low gloss finish is best for active households since dirt and wear are less noticeable. A hand-scraped or distressed patina looks are also good options.


Subfloors


A subfloor should be perfect when installing laminate planks. If it is uneven, it is best to choose a narrow plank style, which will work well with a floor leveling compound. With wider planks, end joints may not stay flush with one another and gaps may appear beneath the planks.


Underlayment


All laminate needs underlayment, or padding, to enhance the flooring?s performance and durability and to correct minor subfloor imperfections. Padding should include a moisture barrier when it is placed on concrete. Breathable foam-like padding is best for plywood subfloors.


Avalon Wood Flooring is a laminate flooring retailer that serves Orange County, California, communities like Irvine, Newport Beach, and Corona Del Mar as well as Santa Ana. Our services include subfloor and flooring repairs. Our experienced installation team can install your new laminate floor while our expert design consultant provides remodeling assistance. In-home estimates are always free. Call, email, or visit our showroom in Santa Ana to get your home remodeling project started.