Blanched laminate real wood flooring is a popular flooring option for homeowners who want the natural beauty of hardwood floors but at a more affordable price. Blanched laminate real wood flooring combines the beauty of real wood with the durability and ease of maintenance of laminate flooring.
In this article, we will discuss what blanched laminate real wood flooring is, its advantages and disadvantages, and how to choose the best blanched laminate real wood flooring for your home.
What is Blanched Laminate Real Wood Flooring?
Blanched laminate real wood flooring is a type of flooring that consists of a thin layer of real wood (usually oak or maple) glued to a core of high-density fiberboard (HDF) or medium-density fiberboard (MDF). The real wood layer is pre-finished with a stain and/or protective coating, such as polyurethane or aluminum oxide, to enhance its durability and resistance to scratches and wear.
Blanching is a technique that involves removing the natural color of the wood by treating it with a solution of water and bleach. This process creates a light, muted, and whitewashed look that is highly popular in contemporary and modern interior design. Blanched laminate real wood flooring can also be finished with a matte or glossy sheen, depending on your preference.
Advantages of Blanched Laminate Real Wood Flooring
Affordable: Blanched laminate real wood flooring is less expensive than traditional solid hardwood flooring because it uses less real wood and is easier and faster to install.
Durable: The protective coating on blanched laminate real wood flooring makes it highly resistant to scratches, stains, and wear, making it ideal for high-traffic areas of your home, such as hallways and living rooms.
Easy to maintain: Blanched laminate real wood flooring is easy to clean and maintain. Regular sweeping and vacuuming, along with occasional damp mopping, is all that is required to keep it looking its best.
Environmentally friendly: Blanched laminate real wood flooring uses less real wood than solid hardwood flooring, making it a more environmentally friendly option. Additionally, the HDF or MDF core is made from recycled materials.
Disadvantages of Blanched Laminate Real Wood Flooring
Limited refinishing options: Unlike solid hardwood flooring, blanched laminate real wood flooring cannot be sanded and refinished. If the surface of the flooring becomes damaged or worn, it will need to be replaced.
Not as authentic as solid hardwood: Although blanched laminate real wood flooring looks and feels like real wood, it lacks the authenticity and depth of character of solid hardwood flooring.
Limited color options: Blanched laminate real wood flooring is only available in a limited range of colors and finishes, which may not suit all interior design styles.
Choosing the Best Blanched Laminate Real Wood Flooring
When choosing the best blanched laminate real wood flooring for your home, there are several factors to consider:
Quality: Look for blanched laminate real wood flooring that is of high quality and meets industry standards for durability and performance. Check the thickness of the real wood layer and the quality of the HDF or MDF core.
Finish: Choose a finish that suits your interior design style and personal preferences. A matte finish will give your flooring a more natural look, while a glossy finish will make it appear more polished and modern.
Color: Blanched laminate real wood flooring is available in a range of shades, from white to gray to light brown. Choose a color that complements your interior design and furnishings.
Brand: Choose a reputable brand with a good track record of quality and customer service. Research online reviews and talk to friends and family members who have installed blanched laminate real wood flooring to get recommendations and insights.
Price: Blanched laminate real wood flooring is generally less expensive than solid hardwood flooring, but prices can vary depending on the quality and brand. Set a budget and compare prices from different retailers to find the best deal.
Installation: Blanched laminate real wood flooring can be installed using the click-and-lock method, which is easy and DIY-friendly, or by a professional flooring installer. Consider your DIY skills and budget when deciding which installation method to choose.
Warranty: Look for blanched laminate real wood flooring with a warranty that covers defects, wear and tear, and fading. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions of the warranty before making a purchase.
Conclusion
Blanched laminate real wood flooring is a durable, affordable, and easy-to-maintain flooring option that combines the natural beauty of real wood with the convenience and durability of laminate flooring.
When choosing the best blanched laminate real wood flooring for your home, consider the quality, finish, color, brand, price, installation, and warranty. With the right choice, you can enjoy the beauty and practicality of blanched laminate real wood flooring for years to come.