What is laminate?
A laminate is a high density fiberboard with a picture of a wood and an aluminum oxide finish. Laminates will never fade or need to be refinished. They are much more durable than a hardwood.
[Back to top]
What are "AC" Ratings?
The "AC" ratings on laminates are the durability ratings and they say where the floor is ok to be laid. Review the "AC" ratings chart below
AC 1: For use in a light traffic only and will wear in a matter of months if put in a heavy traffic area.
AC 2: Also light use only and is meant for bedrooms. If an AC 1 or an AC 2 rated laminate is put anywhere but a bedroom than the warranty is void.
AC 3: For heavy home use, light industrial use. It is approved to go anywhere in the house except for a bathroom.
AC4: More industrial and can be used in a store such as a Wal Mart.
AC5: For heavy industrial such as in a warehouse where a forklift could be driven on it.
Note: Most AC 4 and 5 rated laminates are glue together.
[Back to top]
What is Engineered Wood?
An engineered wood is a hardwood with a plywood backing. The plywood is there so that you do not have to put down a sub floor and so the wood can be floating (not permanently affixed).
[Back to top]
What does the laminate floor warranty cover?
The warranties for all laminate floors include wearing, staining and fading. Some laminates that we carry will have a commercial warranty.
[Back to top]
What is the underlayment?
The underlayment that goes underneath the laminate has a moisture barrier on it that protects the laminate from moisture.
[Back to top]
Does the thickness of the underlayment make a differnece?
The thicker the underlayment, the better the sound. With a thinner underlay you will get a hollow sound, with a thicker one you will get a more solid sound.
[Back to top]
What must I do prior to installation?
All flooring must be indoors for a minimum of 48 hours before installation. This is because the floor will need to acclimate to your temperature.
[Back to top]
Why is there a gap between the floor and the wall?
Your flooring will contract and expand with the heat and cold. So, a quarter inch gap must be left around the perimeter.
[Back to top]
Does the thinckness of the laminate make a difference?
The thickness in laminates doesn't have anything to do with the quality, only the sound. A thicker laminate will give you a better, quieter sound.
[Back to top]
|
