When it comes to laminate flooring, there are many different types to choose from. It can be classified in many different ways, which proves their diversity. Is it good? Absolutely, because thanks to this, practically everyone will be able to find something for themselves here, tailored to their individual tastes.
Types of floor panels
The most common type of panel is the laminated panel.
Laminated panels are the first option for investors when choosing floor panels. Laminate panels have a plastic surface that is bonded to a wooden substrate. Laminate panels are fade and scratch resistant, making them a good choice for high traffic areas.
Plywood panels are still the current flooring panel popular in the 1990s. Plywood panels are made of thin sheets of wood that are glued together. Plywood panels are strong and durable, making them ideal for high traffic floors. The common name of these panels is wooden parquet and nowadays it is not removed during the renovation of old buildings, but even restored by sanding and re-varnishing.
Another not very popular type of floor panel is a chipboard panel. These panels are made of wood chips glued together. Particleboard panels are less expensive than plywood panels and are often used in temporary or low-traffic areas.
Vinyl panels are gaining in popularity due to their versatility, durability and long wind resistance. It is one of the most expensive types of floor panels. However, discounters like Catorama and Leroy Marlin can offer these panels at a price lower than the market. It is true that at the expense of quality – thinner, less resistant to friction.
Laminate flooring is an easy way to a beautiful floor
Laminate flooring is an easy way to create a beautiful floor. You can find laminate that looks like wood, stone or tile and is much more durable than these materials. The floor panel is also easy to install, so you can do it yourself if you have it handy. Even if you’re not, laminate floors are easy to clean and maintain, so they’ll look great for years to come.
Floors are a very important part of every home. Because they are used very intensively, they must be durable and solid to meet all requirements. One of the most popular floor covering materials is laminate flooring. However, the choice is not easy, because there are plenty of different types and colors of floor-panels on the market, and what’s more, you also have to choose one of the two basic options: wooden panels or laminated?
Wooden versus laminate flooring
When it comes to choosing a flooring material, there are many options to choose from. The two most common types of flooring are wood and laminate. Both have their pros and cons that you should consider before making a decision.
Hardwood floors have a classic and timeless look that can add value to your home. They are also relatively easy to assemble and repair if damaged. However, wooden floors can be scratched or stained more easily (if they have a poor varnish), so they may need to be repainted more often.
Laminate flooring is a cheaper option than wood and is much easier to keep clean. They’re also scratch and stain resistant, so you won’t have to worry about frequent renewals. However, laminate flooring can look artificial and may not last as long as wood flooring.
Pay attention to the manufacturer’s warranty. Sometimes the manufacturer gives a guarantee for only a few years, others for a dozen or even several dozen. This can be a valuable tip for everyone who is looking for quality panels.
Laminate panels vs. vinyl panels
Laminate and vinyl planks are two of the most popular types of flooring on the market. Both are durable, easy to assemble and available in a variety of colors and styles.
Laminate panels are made of a thin layer of wood or plastic that is glued to the substrate. The top layer is then sealed with a clear coat that protects it from scratches and stains. Vinyl panels are made of a PVC (polyvinyl chloride) material that is sandwiched between two layers of felt or paper. The problem may be during the installation of cheaper varieties of laminated panels, namely the tongue and groove system is not very durable and is often damaged during installation. As a result, the panels can „spread apart” over time.
Both laminate and vinyl floors are easy to maintain and, with proper care, can last for years. Their superior feature is the fact that they are waterproof. A vinyl plank floor will not suffer in any way, even if it is exposed to standing water for a long time, e.g. during a flood in the bathroom or bathing children in the bathtub.
Panels and underfloor heating
Wooden floor panels are a popular choice for underfloor heating systems. They are durable and provide good insulation. However, their installation can be expensive and require regular maintenance. However, only panels with a low coefficient of shrinkage and expansion should be installed on the heated floor. Wooden panels made of acacia and oak wood will be the best for underfloor heating. Beech, maple and hornbeam panels should be avoided on the heated floor.
In the case of laminate flooring, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Laminate panels have strictly adapted models for underfloor heating. It is also worth noting that the underlay for the panels is not an insulator (e.g. cork), because it will suppress heat and the floor will heat the room poorly.
Vinyl panels are the best choice for underfloor heating. They tolerate temperature fluctuations well and give off heat well. The merit of this is the flexible vinyl from which they are made.
Gray floor panels in shades of wood
Gray laminate flooring in shades of wood can be an eye-catching addition to any home. They add elegance and sophistication and can make a small space feel larger. Gray panels can also make a room feel more open and airy.
If you are considering gray laminate flooring for your home, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, darker shades of gray can make a space feel smaller and more intimate, while lighter shades can make a room brighter.
Secondly, gray floor panels will expose dirt and dust less than other colors.
Finally, consider how the panels will complement your furniture and décor. Gray floors can be a beautiful backdrop for any style of home.
Floor panels – price
When it comes to prices, laminate flooring comes in a wide variety. The most important factor in determining the price is the type of material used. For example, engineered wood flooring will be more expensive than laminate. Other factors include panel size and thickness as well as any special features or finishes.
On average, you can expect to pay between $ 10 and $ 15 per square meter for laminate flooring. When shopping, be sure to compare prices from different providers to get the best deal. Also note that installation costs will add to the total cost. If you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, hiring a professional installer will drive up the price even more.
Laminate wood-like panels – what price?
The cheapest laminate panels start at about $ 17-18 per 1 square meter. However, abrasion resistance will be low. They probably also do not boast of compressive strength and chair marks will quickly show up on your new floor panels. You can forget about the minimum water resistance. Focus at least on the average price of this type of panels, i.e. $ 30-40.
What is the price of vinyl panels?
In 2022, vinyl panels circulated on the market at a record low price, i.e. $ 55 per square meter. However, these were the thinnest panels of their kind, i.e. vinyl panels with a thickness of 4.5 mm. A good vinyl panel costs $ 90 per m2, i.e. one for which you will get at least 15 years of manufacturer’s warranty. We are talking about vinyl panels that are not thinner than 6 mm. The manufacturer giving such a long warranty must take care of every parameter of the vinyl panel. Because there is nothing worse than a complaint, the cost of which is not only money, but also employees’ time.
Cheap castorama floor panels – there you can buy floor panels for just twenty zlotys per square meter, these are the so-called super promotions. It is true that in construction supermarkets you will find such promotions in every newsletter, but their quality can leave much to be desired. The floor should serve for years, so we recommend buying in stores where only solid and durable products from reputable manufacturers are available.