Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen or upgrading your office, custom hardwood flooring in Chicago, IL, can help create that one-of-a-kind look. Keep reading to learn about selecting the right laminate floors from the professionals at the Vintage Flooring Company.
Before you start shopping for your new floors, it’s important to understand the difference between engineered wood and plastic laminate. Both are classified as laminate, but each has its own unique features. Engineered wood is comprised of several layers of real wood that have been glued together. The layers are stacked perpendicular to each other which adds durability as well as the sound of actual wood when you walk on it. Engineered planks are usually treated with a UV-resistant acrylic to protect it from everyday wear and tear. If you want the look of real wood without the real-wood price tag, engineered wood is perfect. Plastic laminate is usually less expensive compared to engineered wood. It may look like wood, but it’s actually just a layer of wood-grain print under a protective film. Since it’s derived from plastic, it’s very durable and naturally resistant to water. If you want the look of warm wood in your bathroom or mudroom, plastic laminate will resist both direct moisture and high humidity.
When it comes to selecting the perfect color, you first have to consider any existing furniture and cabinets. Are you trying to match a particular wood grain or furniture style? Bring a photo of your current fixtures so you can match it to the right laminate style. If you're looking for something new, extreme colors have become very popular in recent years. Dark ebony wood grains add a touch of warmth to a room with modern fixtures while white and gray create a more rustic look. When paired with the perfect finish, your one-of-a-kind floors are sure to impress.
The type of finish you choose for your laminate will affect the way it functions and how long the look with last. For example, a high-gloss finish gives your flooring an almost mirror-like look. While this type of finish creates an elegant look in any room, it is also prone to scratching. If using this finish in a high-traffic area, you’ll want to put down runners or area runs to protect the finish. For bustling families with pets or small children, a matte finish will hide scratches while protecting your floors from everyday wear and a tear. Many prefer the matte look because it enhances the natural look of your floors.
Start your search for local flooring companies by checking out online reviews on sites like Google, Facebook, or the Better Business Bureau. To get the best price on hardwood laminate flooring in Chicago, IL, always ask for an itemized estimate of labor and materials and use it for comparison shopping.