Chicago Laminate Flooring

Though it might not be everyone?s first choice, there are many good things that can be said about laminate flooring. Chicago area homeowners who like the look of wood, but not the price (or in some instances, the performance) of the real thing should know that laminate has come a long way in mimicking the appearance and even the feel of hardwood. In fact, due to the long winters the city is known for, Chicago laminate flooring is likely to have some physical benefits that will make it an even better choice for your next remodel. If you have been considering replacing your old floors, knowing a bit about what laminate flooring has to offer can give you a better idea of whether it is a good fit for your home.

Chicago Laminate Flooring vs. Hardwood Flooring
We all know that hardwood floors are some of the most highly regarded in the home improvement industry. However, in a place like Chicago, laminate flooring is actually a more appropriate material in certain scenarios. First off, there are many things that can adversely affect hardwood. Excessive moisture can cause it to swell or even weaken; dramatic annual temperature changes (like those found in the Windy City) cause it to expand and contract, which can lead to problems of its own. Though hardwood is certainly a beautiful and sturdy choice for a floor, it is not without its problems.

One of the great things about laminate flooring is that it was designed not only to look like hardwood, but to perform better, too. Though it can certainly be affected by many of the same things that can damage hardwood, it will generally be to a lesser degree. While few would recommend installing hardwood in bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms for fear of moisture damage, some laminate flooring products perform well in these environments. Due to the way laminate flooring is installed, it is generally not adversely affected by temperature changes, either. Plus, it?s less expensive!

Other Reasons to Install Laminate Flooring in Chicago
Since the appearance of laminate flooring is created by a photographic layer rather than an actual piece of wood, you?ll have a wide selection of ?species? and finishes to choose from that will all be in a similar price range. Buying real floors made from exotic or rare trees will become expensive very quickly, but getting a laminate floor that looks like an exotic or rare species will be easier on the wallet (and won?t require harvesting a tree that is difficult to find). Its extremely tough finish makes it a good fit for Chicago and the slushy winter mix that is often tracked in for a good portion of the year. Add to that laminate flooring?s quick and relatively simple installation, and it?s plain to see why it has become so popular!

Chicago Laminate Flooring Prices
When it comes down to it, price is one of the biggest reasons to choose laminate flooring in Chicago. Hardwood floors don?t come cheap, and in and around the Metro area you?re likely to see prices of $5,000 to $10,000 (though we have processed several jobs that came in at $3,000 or less). However, when dealing with laminate flooring, Chicago prices of $2,000 are common. While we?ve seen prices for laminate flooring range from just over $1,000 all the way up to $6,000 in and around the city, when you compare these numbers to those of hardwood floors in the area, the savings are obvious.