Laminate Thickness / Width
Board Thickness Options
When selecting your laminate flooring, it's essential to consider not only the style but also the technical aspects, like board thickness. Thickness can significantly impact a laminate floor's durability, sound absorption, and feel underfoot. Generally, the thicker the board, the more solid and authentic the flooring will feel, enhancing both comfort and performance in your living space.
7mm Laminate Flooring: This is the thinnest option available. While it can be an economical choice, it may not offer the same level of durability or sound insulation as thicker options. Typically, 7mm boards are best suited for low-traffic areas such as guest rooms or offices, where cost savings may be a priority over robust performance.
8mm Laminate Flooring: This thickness has gained popularity as it strikes a balance between cost-effectiveness and durability. It is suitable for moderate traffic areas, offering a reasonable amount of sturdiness while providing comfort underfoot. Many homeowners choose 8mm laminate for family rooms or dining areas, where aesthetics and functionality are essential.
9mm Laminate Flooring: This thickness provides increased durability and enhanced sound absorption, making it suitable for high-traffic areas such as living rooms, hallways, or entryways. The additional thickness contributes to a more solid feel, which can significantly improve the overall footfall experience whenever you're walking on the floor.
12mm Laminate Flooring: This is the thickest option available and is ideal for heavy-duty use. Its robust construction makes it perfect for busy households or commercial spaces, where it can withstand wear and tear effortlessly. The superior sound absorption capabilities of 12mm laminate also add an element of comfort, giving you the look and feel of traditional hardwood while maintaining the resilience of laminate.
Board Width Options
The width of your laminate boards can significantly influence the overall aesthetic of your floor and how the room is perceived. A variety of width options allows for personal expression and tailored design choices:
Narrow Boards (under 5 inches): These are particularly effective for small rooms, as they can create an illusion of spaciousness. Additionally, narrow boards bring a more traditional look to a home, effectively mimicking original strip wood floors that have long been admired for their classic appeal.
Standard Boards (5 to 7 inches): Standard width boards offer versatility and can harmoniously fit into any room size and most decor styles. They provide a balanced aesthetic that combines the timeless charm of narrower boards with the modern flair of wider varieties.
Wide Boards (over 7 inches): Best suited for large rooms, these boards can enhance the openness of a space while delivering a contemporary, upscale look. The broader planks allow for quicker installation and fewer seams, creating a more seamless appearance that elevates your flooring design.
Extra Wide Boards: These boards achieve a dramatic effect and make a striking design statement. Ideal for open concept spaces or areas embracing modern interiors, extra wide planks create visually expansive areas that exude sophistication and style.
Conclusion
Choosing the right thickness and width for your laminate flooring can profoundly impact the functionality, aesthetics, and comfort of your living space. Thicker boards like the 12mm laminate offer not only better durability but also a more realistic and luxurious feel underfoot. Meanwhile, the width of the boards allows for achieving various stylistic looks, ranging from traditional to contemporary. By understanding how these factors work together, you'll be well-equipped to make the best decision for your specific needs, ultimately resulting in a stunning, durable, and comfortable floor that enhances your home's ambiance.