What is Laminate Flooring?

Laminate flooring is a floor covering made of various layers. The top looks like natural wood because it is a photograph covered in a clear “protective layer.” Under the protective layer is the pattern, followed by the core and finally a backing layer. There are several differences between quality laminate flooring and a cheaper versions. Firstly, the core can be made up different materials.

Also referred to as hardboard, a high density fibreboard (HDF) is highly compressed in the manufacturing process to add stability and density to the board. It’s made from wood fibers extracted from chips and pulped wood waste. HDF for flooring is similar but much harder and denser than particleboard or medium density fiberboard (MDF) for flooring. Our laminated floorboards have a density of more than 860m3, ensuring a very stable finish.

Karma flooring believes in sustainability, so we have chosen an eco-friendly A-grade HDF core made from wood fibres from poplar trees, which grow rapidly under a stringent forestry management system.

Moisture resistance of HDF is achieved during the manufacturing process by adding a protective wax to the floorboard. Laminate flooring is not waterproof, but it is moisture resistant.

Laminate flooring does not attach to the subfloor. A rubber underlay (or EVA rubber underlay) is layed between the subfloor and floorboard, detaching the two surfaces and providing for a softer, natural feel. Floors that attach from board to board but not to the subfloor are called floating floors.

Karma flooring only uses patented German technology for our laminate flooring. UNILIN and VALINGE are known as the leaders for laminate click systems, ensuring a seamless finish every time. All our floating floors have bevelled edges or micro-bevelled edges with an EIR (embossed in register) finish with a selection of textured, matt or glossy finishes.

Laminate flooring is inexpensive compared to solid wood and engineered wood. Consider how many trees have be to cut down for traditional timber floors. That is why laminate flooring is a much better choice when considering a sustainable future and easy on the hip-pocket.

It is a great floor for people who have children, pets and busy households. Commercially, it also have a very good reputation for hardiness, durability and perfect for high traffic areas. Laminate flooring is easy to clean, moisture resistant and scratch-resistant. The best method to clean is with a spray mop, using clean water. Don’t overwet laminate flooring, a simple slightly wet spray mop will suffice for cleaning and it’s best to clean up small spills straight away. We recommend the BONA cleaning system.

In summary, work out your budget for your project and research the differences in the various qualities of laminate flooring available. Karma Flooring has over 40 years experience in flooring and we are happy to answer all of your questions so you can enjoy your new flooring for many years to come.