Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring in Chicago, Illinois is a great option for homeowners that want the look of expensive hardwood floors, but find that the cost is outside the budget. There’s no getting around it, true hardwood flooring can be expensive. Many people have found this type of flooring gives them the best of both worlds – the look of wood but without the associated cost.

We have the best laminate flooring in Chicago, IL -
Call us and get all the details: 847-513-2772

Originally, laminate was used not as a flooring material, but to cover countertops. Eventually builders and manufacturers realized that they could gain a percentage of the flooring market with this product, and since then laminate flooring in Chicago has become extremely popular. It is often referred to by its original manufacturer’s name, Pergo, but there are several companies that produce it.

What exactly is laminate flooring? Simply put, it is inexpensive wood designed to look like expensive wood. The core, or underside, is a solid composite such as particle board. This is the wood component which makes the floor sturdy to walk on. On top of that layer is a photograph of real hardwood. So when you look at the floor, it has the complete appearance of hardwood, but it’s actually just a picture you’re looking at. On top of the photo is a transparent layer of material for protection – so it won’t show dents and scratches from furniture, high heel shoes, etc. It’s really a pretty clever idea, and very popular here in the Chicago area.

Here are some of the questions our customers ask about laminate flooring:

How does laminate compare with hardwood for durability?
In general, laminate is more durable. It is less likely to expand and contract due to temperature changes, it is more resistant to stains, and it resists denting and scratching. It is designed to be pretty impervious to damage.

Can I have laminate installed as a flooring option in my basement?
In general, yes. In fact, laminate is often a better option for a basement than hardwood. This is due to the fact that basements can sometimes be a damp or humid environment, and true hardwood is not usually the most appropriate choice for those situations. Since laminate is resistant to the effects of moisture, it often works better in a basement.

Another factor to consider is that unfinished basements in Chicago often have cement floors. This is where laminate can have another advantage over hardwood. Since laminate is considered a “floating floor”, installation does not require it to be nailed down like a hardwood floor would be. Therefore, laminate would be much easier than hardwood in that situation.

I had hardwood installed in a previous house, and after a few years of exposure to the sun from a nearby window, the color had faded. Will this happen with laminate flooring also?
Over a period of several years, you may find a very small amount of fading with laminate. However, it is generally very resistant to fading so this is not usually a problem.

I have 3 children - how easily does laminate flooring stain?
Actually, it is very resistant to staining. With actual hardwood, a liquid spill needs to be wiped up quickly to avoid having a stain left behind. You will obviously want to get a spill taken care of right away no matter what your flooring material is, but laminate has a sealant finish that makes it very resistant to staining. Young families like having flooring that is kid-friendly!

Don’t trust just anyone with your laminate flooring in Chicago, IL -
Call the experts today: 847-513-2772

Over the years we have installed many types of floors in all different situations and environments. Whatever questions you may have, please give us a call and we will be happy to help. We can come out and perhaps offer some ideas, along with a free estimate for any work you are considering.

We provide professional laminate flooring in Chicago and surrounding areas.