Laminates Flooring: Guide to Laminate Cost, Types, Finishes and Maintenance

Thinking of a home renovation or kitchen makeover and have decided to go with laminates. It’s a perfect choice!

Laminate materials are an affordable and versatile alternative to hardwood, providing copious options in materials, textures, colours and patterns. But with endless choices. How do you make a pick? This guide simplifies the process by navigating the various types available and guiding you through their unique applications and costs.

Whether you prefer the elegance of marble finishes or the practicality of matt finishes laminates, choose the desirable designs and elevate the aesthetics and adaptability of your living spaces.

What is Laminate Finish?

Laminate is known as the go-to finishing layer for a wide array of surfaces within the interior design. Encompassing several materials such as Medium-density Fiberboard (MDF), plywood, particleboard, wooden furniture, wall panels, and flooring options. The composite material is fabricated by pressing together multiple thin layers of flat paper and resins fused under high pressure and temperature to create a durable layer. Laminates can mimic the appearance of natural materials like wood grains, stones, and abstract patterns, offering endless design possibilities to suit diverse interior styles and preferences.

The cost of laminate sheets per square foot varies based on quality, finish, and type. From high-glossy laminate sheets that are cheaper around '¹55.25 per sq. ft. to durable and versatile PVC laminate, approximately '¹350 per sq. ft. The wide design choices, sturdiness and affordability make laminate a trendy choice among homeowners, interior designers, and architects alike.

How to Choose a Laminate?

With laminates available in a vast variety, choosing the ideal option can be confusing. But here are some tips to consider that can help you with the selection process:

• For kitchen laminates, go for a harmonious blend by pairing two solid colours that complement each other. Avoid overwhelming contrasts; moderation is key to lend a visual impact.
• If you’re inclined towards choosing a bold colour for your cabinets, balance it with a lighter tone for the countertops and dado area. It allows the vibrant shade to stand out without overpowering the space.
• In kitchens, there are so many frequently used areas like base units or surface flooring, so opt for darker tones that are easier to maintain.
• With a lot of activity in your culinary haven, check the wear and tear quality of the laminates. Look for an option that is durable and scratch-resistant. High-pressure laminates (HPL) are ideal for such areas, ensuring longevity, fire resistance and antibacterial properties, while low-pressure laminates (LPL) suit lighter applications.
• Explore different textures and finishes resonating with your desired style. Matte, gloss, solid or textured surfaces bring distinct character to spaces, elevating the overall appeal.

Benefits of Laminates

Below are the major benefits of different laminate finish types, making them an attractive and practical choice for household purposes.

Natural Appeal:

Laminates, with their versatility, offer an extensive range of finishes that mimic the natural beauty of materials like wood grains, stones, and other textures. '

High Durability:

Laminates boast exceptional strength and are capable of withstanding moisture, wear and tear and fading. This resistance makes them a suitable choice for busy areas of your home, such as kitchens.

Low Maintenance:

One of the standout advantages of laminates is their minimal maintenance requirements. They are easy to clean and maintain, just wipe the surface with a damp cloth or mild cleaning solution.

Pre-finished Product:

Laminates are pre-finished products, ready to install and are one of the best choices for DIY projects. Unlike natural materials that might require additional finishing, laminates come in handy, adding efficiency and convenience during the renovation or construction work.

Economical:

They are simple to install and budget-friendly options, making them more accessible in household applications without compromising aesthetics or quality.

Different Types of Laminates

There are different types of laminates all manufactured under varying conditions.

High-pressure Laminates (HPL)

HPL sheets are composed of multiple layers of kraft paper that are bonded together by resins. These layers are then fired under high temperature and pressure, making it durable, heat and scratch-resistant.

Low-pressure Laminates (LPL)

Unlike their counterparts, HPL, LPL sheets are made under low pressure and high temperature. They typically comprise a single melamine paper bonded to a substrate usually MDF to create low-pressure laminates. These laminate sheets are best suited for the vertical and low-impact applications.

Compact Laminates

These types of laminates need not be glued to any other material as they are strong, self-supporting and come in varying thicknesses. Moreover, they provide water-resistant properties and can be utilised for a range of residential and commercial applications, including wall panelling and outdoor furniture.

Decorative Laminates

If you're looking for aesthetics in laminate finishes, these types are best suited. In addition, you can use decorative laminates for ornamental overlays on furniture.

Industrial Laminates

These types of laminates feature sturdiness and are far more resistant to wear and tear. They include high-performance laminate sheets which offer antibacterial, fire and chemical resistance. They're heavily used in hospitals and other industries.

Post-formed Laminates

Unlike most laminate types, they are more flexible and thinner than conventional laminates like HPL, LPL, and other laminates. Post-formed laminate sheets are applied wrapping the edges of countertops, tables, and columns.

Are Laminates Available in Different Colours?

Yes, laminates offer an extensive palette of colours, from solid hues to textures, patterns, and other natural materials. Available in an abundant selection of designs they cater to the diverse tastes and requirements of homeowners, interior designers, and architects. From vibrant hues to subtle pastels, earthy tones, and classic neutrals, laminates offer versatility in creating striking and personalised spaces.

What are the Types of Laminate Finishes?

Laminates are available in an assortment of finishes that allow for boundless creativity in home interior design. 

Matte Finish:

Matte laminate finish exhibits a non-reflective surface, providing a classy and contemporary look. They are known for their durability, smooth texture and scratch resistance, making them ideal for high-traffic areas, such as kitchens.

Gloss Finish:

Gloss laminates feature a shiny, reflective appearance that adds a touch of elegance and modernity to interiors. They bounce light, enhancing the perception of space. However, they may require more maintenance to keep them looking pristine as scratches are visible more easily.

Textured Finishes:

A textured finish laminate can mimic the look of a natural wooden or stone finish design. These laminate finishes add depth and visual interest to spaces and do not easily get scratched. But they need time to time cleaning as they can trap oils, dust and other materials.

Solid Finishes:

If you are a fan of bright tones and want to add a pop of statement to your kitchen or living space, thanks to the types of laminates available in solid tones. You can opt for a two-toned kitchen cabinet design and give your culinary haven a refreshing and energetic feel. Think striking blue or pastel green in glossy and matte finishes and add personality to the space.

Understanding Laminate Sizes

Here’s an overview of the laminates sizes and dimensions available:-

Laminate sheets are used in cabinetry, countertops, and furniture surfacing. The standard size for laminate sheets is approximately 8 feet by 4 feet, which can be cut to fit specific dimensions, offering versatility and flexibility for different projects.

Wall panels and boards crafted from laminate materials are available in squares or rectangles, varying in size and dimensions. These panels and boards are applied in wall coverings, cladding, and other decorative features while bringing aesthetics and functionality to interior spaces. Laminate thickness ranges from 0.6mm, 1mm, and 1.5mm, depending on the application use and durability. Beyond standard dimensions, the best thing about laminate materials, they can be tailored to meet specific project requirements to craft bespoke interiors.

Are Laminates Durable as a Material?

Laminates are sound and hard-wearing known for their resilience and endurance and can withstand moisture and heat, making them a favoured choice in Indian homes. Laminates are formed with multiple layers of materials bonded under high pressure and heat, creating a robust surface that resists scratches, stains, moisture, impacts and fading. However, the only drawback to laminate sheets is they are prone to chipping.

What Is Laminate Cost Per Sheet?

The cost of laminate sheets varies depending on the scope of work, the area of the room, and labour charges. On average, laminate sheets are produced at a standard size of around 8 feet by 4 feet (32 sq.ft.), starting at Rs 55 per sq. ft. and going up to Rs 350 per sq. ft. Prices can differ based on the quality and type of the laminate.

Laminates are cheaper and more sturdy material than veneers. Laminated wooden flooring is quite a popular and inexpensive alternative to solid hardwood floors.

Laminate Sheets Price List

Type of Finishes	Cost per sheet	Cost in Sq. ft
Matte finish laminate costs	Rs 1500- Rs 1800 per sheet	Rs 55 to 85 per sq ft
High gloss laminate sheets price	Rs 2,300  to Rs 3,100 per sheet	Rs 65 to Rs 90 per sq ft
PVC laminate costs	Rs 4,100 to Rs 11,500 per sheet	Rs 150 to Rs 350 per sq ft
Acrylic	Rs 6,100 to Rs 9,200 per sheet	Rs 185 to Rs 320 per sq ft
PU Finish	Rs 4,500 to Rs 6,500 per sheet	Rs 270 to Rs 400 per sq ft

How to Maintain Laminate Surfaces?

Laminate types are easier to clean and maintain and can last with just a few measures. Simply use a damp cloth or mild cleaning solution to wipe off the spills and then use a dry cloth gently to prevent the marks. Avoid using abrasive cleaners and steel wool scrubbers as these can damage the surfaces. Protect the laminates from excessive exposure to water or moisture. With its inherent durability, laminates require low maintenance and minimise frequent repairs or replacements.

How to Install, Repair and Replace Laminates?

Flooring:

Installing laminate wooden flooring is quite simple compared to other options like vitrified tiles or marble. Interlock the floorboards using a tongue and groove joint during installation. An advantage is that laminate flooring can be laid on top of an existing floor, making it an excellent choice for DIY refurbishment projects.

Flooring Installation Types

• Glueless Click
• Glued
• Pre-Glued

Furniture & Wall Panels:

Laminates are incredible materials and can be integrated into furniture and wall panels using high-grade adhesives. You need to require proper surface cleaning and replace chipped or warped laminates by stripping them off completely. It's advisable to seek professional assistance to carry out tasks with expertise and finesse. Connect with our experts at Interior Company, providing installation services and a flawless finish without compromising on quality and style.

Uses of Laminates

Here are ideal applications for laminate finishes:

• High gloss laminates and marble finish laminates are ideal for everyday surfaces that see a lot of wear and tear. Their durability and exemplified resistance make them perfect for these areas.
• These finishes serve well for flooring applications and provide an array of textures and designs. Patterned laminate finishes inject vibrancy and visual interest into furniture pieces.
• However, they might sometimes lack the authentic feel of natural materials like wood. If you want a distinguished look in furniture pieces, opt for veneers or solid wood.

In A Nutshell

Laminates unlock a world of possibilities for homeowners and designers alike, expressing functionality and creativity within living spaces. Whether it’s revamping floors, adorning kitchen cabinetry, or wall panelling, laminates provide an array of designs, textures, and finishes suiting diverse tastes and styles. Beyond aesthetics, laminates are a practical choice for kitchens, bathrooms and outdoor areas, embodying strength, ingenuity, and flexibility. Are you confused about which type of laminate to use in home interiors? Let the experts at Interior Company guide you in finding the perfect laminate finish that matches your desired vision.

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