Laminate flooring has become one of the most popular floor coverings in the United States and Europe because of its look, feel, low cost, ease of maintenance, and durability.. Laminate floorings are made in many patters and colors, depicting not only the look and grains of many different species of  hardwood, but many designs and patterns of ceramic, porcelain or stone tiles. Today's laminate floors are manufactured with tongue and groove interlocking system which clicks into position without use of any glue, which makes installation very simple. Laminate floor is installed "floating method" over a layer of  attached film and foam which is called "underlayment" , over the existing concrete or plywood subfloor, or any flat and level old vinyl or hardwood floors. The function of the underlayment is to provide moisture barrier, forgive minor imperfections on the subfloor, and also reduce noise. 

Laminate floors are constructed with four main components that are bound together:

Wear layer which is a melamine tough, clear finish reinforced with aluminum oxide, one of the hardest manmade mineral compounds to resist staining, fading, surface moisture and wear.

Design layer which is the floor's beauty, the decorative layer is actually a highly detailed photograph that gives the laminate the appearance of wood or tile.

Fiberboard core which is a combination of  particle board and melamine that provides impact resistance and stability. It also features an edge sealing treatment that provides even further structural stability.

Back layer - which is a reinforced sheet with melamine for structural stability and moisture resistance.

                                               

 

Carpet Depot carries products of many laminate floor manufacturers.  Some brands recommend the tongue and grooves of every plank to be glued with a water-resistant glue. It is placed between the tongue and grooves of every plank. This procedure help the spill resistance of the product, preventing liquid to penetrate from the joints.

Some other characteristics of laminate floors are:

Extreme durability and stain resistant which makes it possible to simply wipe off spills such as nail polish, grease and sauces.

The unsightly gaps at the joints of planks are simply eliminated by tongue and groove interlocking system.

Laminate floors may be disassembled and reassembled in other areas.

Laminate floors may be walked on immediately after installation.