Home Cleaning Tips

Choices in laminate flooring are available for nearly any type and style. One of the latest trends in flooring is the use of wide planks with a hardwood appearance. It gives the room a totally different look from the traditional strips that most people think of when they consider laminate wood flooring. Deciding whether planks are the right style for a homeowner’s home improvement project requires weighing a variety of factors.

Width

Planks are typically a minimum of three inches wide. A four-inch or greater planks are often seen in laminate flooring for a large open space, such as the living room or great room. Wide plank flooring adds elegance. Some colors and finishes in laminates are only available at five-and-a-half inches wide, while others come in nearly any width. These are usually special lines created by the manufacturer. Planks six inches wide create an antique aura of centuries-old architecture.

Size

The biggest difference between planks and strips is how the width changes the room’s appearance. Wider pieces look best in larger rooms. Wider flooring is more dominant. Use strips three inches or thinner to create a classic look in a smaller space, like a bathroom. While the latest trend is for wider widths, it is not always practical. Using them in a small area will create an unbalanced look between the floor and the rest of the room.

Material

One of the most popular materials today is laminate wood flooring. They have the look and appeal of hardwood floors combined with the durability of laminate. The mixture of dark and light tones in wood grain is duplicated with the color, shine and depth of the wide plank flooring. The width emphasizes the smooth look and creates an accent in room decor.

Colors

Laminate floors are found in every color of the spectrum. Lighter colors in walls and flooring open up a room. Darker ones create a more cozy aura. Those that resemble light oak to dark cherry wood or exotic species coordinate or contrast to the personal choice of the homeowner. They should coordinate well with furniture, wall coverings and window treatments.

Installation

A professional installation of wide plank flooring brings flattering results. The professional can do it more quickly, placing the pieces in a quality design. Cutting any odd-sized pieces will likely be necessary, even in a simple square room. For those with interest in a do-it-yourself installation, wider planks take careful measurement for a successful project. With fewer pieces to install, it is less labor-intensive. It is always helpful to have a veteran assist a novice in laminate floor installation. Asking for assistance from an experienced neighbor or family member will likely make the job move faster with fewer difficulties.