Laminate flooring
Laminate floors are a perfect option, but we know that there are areas that are subject to greater use, so it is normal for us to have doubts. The bathrooms or the kitchen are two such spaces, as they are moist rooms and traditionally laminates do not get along with water. The big question is - can laminate flooring be installed in kitchens and bathrooms? It depends on the laminate flooring in question, but there is quality flooring that is water resistant and if correctly installed it is ideal for bathrooms and kitchens.
In kitchens
In kitchens, the biggest challenge for a floor is to be able to resist accidental stains, splashes or liquid spills. Laminate flooring for kitchens must be water repellent and of good quality, because it will need more frequent cleaning than those in the rest of the house and it is important that they are resistant to scratches. A very common scenario is to accidentally drop a knife or break a plate and look down to see if the flooring has been damaged. Install a quality laminate floor in your kitchen and forget your worries.
For bathrooms
In the bathroom we need a floor that resists splashing and water vapour. While with poor quality flooring the joints will swell with moisture, a suitable laminate floor will withstand normal use in the bathroom.
Installation
It is very important that the installation is done in the correct way so that the laminate does not suffer. Specialised flooring has anchoring systems designed to prevent the passage of water, as the joints are the most delicate point. Despite this, it may be advisable to use a joint sealant when laying the flooring, always in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, so that there are no leaks. In the same way, if expansion joints or profiles are used, check to see that they are also water resistant, especially when we place them near the bathtub or shower. Obviously, the fewer joints there are, the better, hence large slat designs are more suitable for bathrooms and kitchens.
Its advantages
Laminate flooring in kitchens and bathrooms has multiple advantages that will help us take the plunge and change the paving in our home.
-It is easy to install and you can place it on the existing floor, provided it is levelled.
-It is compatible with underfloor heating, which makes it an ideal alternative for the bathroom as well as for other rooms such as bedrooms or the living room. Even if we do not place underfloor heating, laminate floors are warmer than ceramic floors, so walking barefoot through them will be a pleasure even in winter.
-We can install the same type of flooring throughout the house, which gives a feeling of continuity without paving changes. Get uniformity throughout your home and avoid transitions between different types of floor that spoil the look. If you have an open kitchen, visually it will be much more attractive if the floor continues throughout your home without disruption.
-It is very resistant to wear, scratches or bumps, as well as stains. In areas of intensive use such as kitchens and bathrooms, it is a more durable and less delicate alternative to other types of floors such as parquet, marble or some ceramic floors.