When it comes to enhancing the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your home or office, choosing the right flooring is more important than you think. Among the various options available, laminate flooring has gained significant popularity for its affordability, durability, and versatile design choices. Laminate flooring is well-known for its high-quality attributes compared to other flooring types like hardwood, tile and vinyl.
Its notable durability, moisture resistance, versatility in design, ease of maintenance, cost-effectiveness, and environmental considerations make laminate flooring an attractive and practical choice for residential and commercial spaces. From the tropical climate’s impact on your budget and design preferences, this guide will walk you through the essential factors you should weigh before investing in your interior space.
Get your hands on the best-rated laminate flooring here:
1. Determine the Budget
Determine your budget for laminate flooring because the prices of each project vary significantly based on quality, design, and brand. Make sure to factor in the installation cost and any additional materials needed to guarantee a successful installation.
What is the price range for installing laminate flooring in Malaysia?
According to AF RENO, laminate flooring typically falls within the price range of RM7 to RM8 per square foot, including installation costs. When calculating the total cost for a 400-square-foot space, such as a 20-foot x 20-foot area, it is important to consider additional factors like skirting, wastage, and transportation charges. Therefore, the overall cost may amount to around RM3,000 to RM3,400.
2. The Quality and Durability of Laminate Flooring
Look for laminate flooring with good-quality materials. Consider the planks’ thickness, measured in millimetres, because thicker laminates are generally more durable. Quality may also be indicated by AC rating, with AC3 or higher being suitable for residential use.
How to pick the best AC rating for your project?
Based on EnviroBuild, the AC durability ratings are categorised into two applications: one for residential use and the other for commercial settings.
- AC1 to AC3
AC1 to AC3 ratings are well-suited for residential use. They are designed to endure the daily wear and tear typical of household environments, making them a practical choice for areas like bedrooms, living rooms, and other low to moderately trafficked spaces, where maintaining durability and resistance to light to moderate wear is essential. - AC4 to AC6
AC4 to AC6 laminate ratings offer a versatile range suitable for residential and commercial applications, with AC4 being a reliable choice for moderately busy spaces and AC5 being ideal for busy shops, showrooms, and offices. AC6, although the highest rating, is seldom required and is mainly reserved for high-traffic areas like shops and offices.
3. Decide on the Colour
Choose a laminate flooring colour and style that complements your interior design. Laminate flooring comes in a wide variety of wood, stone, and tile patterns, allowing you to achieve the desired aesthetic.
The choices of colour and style for laminate flooring in Malaysia can vary based on personal preferences and interior design trends. According to Medium, here are some popular ones:
- Wood-look
Designed to emulate real wood flooring, this laminate type offers an array of colours and styles, ranging from light to dark tones. It is an excellent choice for those seeking the visual appeal of wood flooring while avoiding elevated expenses. - Stone-look
This laminate is crafted to replicate the appearance of genuine stone like slate or travertine. It comes in many colours and styles, making it a practical choice for individuals seeking the aesthetics of stone flooring. - Textured
Textured laminate flooring looks and feels like real wood or stone, making it seem more natural. It comes in many colours and styles, creating a cosy, earthy atmosphere. - High-gloss
Laminate flooring with a high-gloss surface can make a room look modern and luxurious. You can find it in various colours and finishes, including white to black, making it ideal for those who want a sleek, contemporary appearance.
4. Level of Moisture Resistance
Consider the moisture level in the area where you plan to install the laminate. Some laminates have moisture-resistant properties, which are essential for areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
To determine if your laminate flooring is moisture-resistant, you can follow these steps:
- Check the AC Rating
Higher AC ratings, especially AC3 and above, often indicate better moisture resistance. AC3, AC4, AC5, or AC6-rated laminates are more likely to have enhanced moisture-resistant properties. - Examine the Planks or Tiles
If you already have the laminate flooring, examine the planks or tiles closely. Some moisture-resistant laminates have features like waxed edges or water-resistant coatings that provide protection against moisture. - Look for a Moisture Warranty
Some laminate manufacturers offer moisture warranties. If your laminate comes with a moisture warranty, it indicates its resistance to moisture-related issues.
5. Consider the Underlayment
Underlayment can help with sound insulation and provide a more comfortable feel underfoot. Determine if your laminate choice requires a specific type of underlayment for optimal performance.
The best underlayment for laminate flooring depends on your specific needs, subfloor type, and budget. Here are a few common types of underlayment and their considerations:
- Standard Foam Underlayment
This is a cost-effective and commonly used underlayment for laminate flooring. It provides basic cushioning and helps smooth out minor subfloor imperfections. However, it may not offer the best sound insulation or moisture protection. - Combination Underlayment
Some underlayments come with a combination of foam and moisture barrier features. This can be beneficial in a humid climate like Malaysia, where moisture resistance is essential. It also offers better sound absorption. - Moisture Barrier Underlayment
A moisture barrier underlayment is important in a humid climate to protect the laminate from moisture seeping through the subfloor. It typically has a vapour barrier to prevent moisture-related issues. - Rubber Underlayment
Rubber underlayment offers excellent sound insulation and durability. It suits high-traffic areas and can help reduce noise in homes or commercial spaces.
6. Cleaning and Maintenance
While cleaning laminate flooring is easy, specific brands and styles may come with unique cleaning instructions. It is advisable to seek guidance on the recommended maintenance procedures to ensure the longevity and appearance of your laminate flooring.
Cleaning and maintaining laminate flooring involves a few essential steps to keep it looking its best:
- Sweep or Vacuum
Regularly remove dirt and debris using a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum cleaner with a hard floor attachment. This prevents scratches and keeps the surface clean. - Damp Mop
Use a slightly damp mop or microfiber cloth to clean the floor. Avoid excessive moisture, as it can damage laminate. Use a laminate floor cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar (one part vinegar to three parts water) for a gentle but effective clean. - Spot Cleaning
Promptly clean up spills and stains to prevent them from setting. Use a soft, damp cloth for this purpose. Avoid abrasive scrubbers and harsh chemicals, as they can damage the laminate’s protective layer. - Avoid Excess Water
Never use excessive water, steam cleaners, or wet mops, as these can seep into the seams and damage the core of the laminate. - Protect from Scratches
Place felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratching when moving furniture. Consider using area rugs or doormats in high-traffic areas.
7. Adaptation to Local Climate
Given Malaysia’s tropical and humid climate, selecting laminate flooring that can endure these specific environmental conditions is crucial. Ensure that the laminate you pick is capable of withstanding the challenges posed by the country’s moisture and humidity levels.
What is the most suitable AC level for laminate flooring to adapt to the local climate?
The best AC level for laminate flooring in Malaysia to ensure local climate endurance would typically be AC3 or higher. These ratings indicate greater durability and resistance to wear and tear, which is important in Malaysia’s humid and tropical climate. However, the choice can also depend on the specific traffic and usage in the area where the flooring will be installed.
8. Installation Options
Decide whether you want to install the laminate flooring or hire a professional. Some laminate options feature easy click-and-lock installation systems, while others may require glue or additional accessories. If you are hiring a professional for installation, get quotes from different installers to understand the total cost of your project, including labour.
What is the average installation cost for laminate flooring in Malaysia?
As mentioned by Floorbit, laminate flooring is generally known for its uncomplicated installation process, resulting in labour costs typically ranging from RM1 to RM2 per square foot, offering a cost-effective choice for installation in Malaysia.
9. Double-Check the Warranty
Check the manufacturer’s warranty, as it can serve as a valuable indicator of the laminate flooring’s quality and durability, with higher-quality products typically featuring longer warranty periods. A manufacturer’s warranty can provide assurance regarding the product’s durability and performance.
How long are the warranty periods for laminate flooring in Malaysia?
The typical warranty periods for laminate flooring in Malaysia can vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific product. However, Malaysia’s standard range for laminate flooring warranties might be 10 to 30 years. Higher-quality laminates or premium brands often offer longer warranties, while lower-priced options may have shorter warranty periods.
Grab Your Complimentary Lazada Voucher 【Here】
Tons of Shopee Cashback Deals 【Here】
Disclosure: This list was compiled by the team at My Weekend Plan after extensive research and shared opinions to suggest helpful recommendations for the public. The sequence of brands is in no particular order so if you have any other great suggestions too, please email us support@myweekendplan.asia. For more information, kindly refer to our copyright, privacy & disclosure policy.
