FEATURES - INNOVATION & ALT . TECH
" Laminate flooring today has come such a long way that it is now quite difficult to see the difference between the two ."
According to the Southern African Wood and Laminate Flooring Association ( SAWFLA ), many importers try to accommodate the market , which constitutes a high demand for cheaper imported products . “ Inevitably , we end up with many inferior products on the market . They may last between 12 and 24 months once installed , but may also contain harmful chemicals , so understanding what you are buying or selling is key . The saying ‘ You get what you pay for ’ is quite true in this respect . SAWLFA has many quality laminate flooring brands listed on its website ; we have researched and obtained test certificates to make sure that members and the end user can buy , with confidence , laminate flooring that will last for years and doesn ’ t contain harmful chemicals .”
BIGGEST CHALLENGES
According to Bothma , one of the biggest challenges for suppliers of quality laminates is the volatility of the rand in the international market . “ This increases the cost to the local consumer , which in turn opens the door for cheap imports into the market and adds to the perception of laminate flooring not being a good product . The other challenge has come from the increasing popularity of luxury vinyl flooring , especially in the commercial sector .”
BENEFITS ABOUND
As with anything , there are benefits to using laminate flooring instead of wood . The biggest one is cost . Bothma says , “ The biggest benefit would have to be the cost difference between the two . Laminate flooring remains the most cost-effective way to give your home the wooden look . In a country where we find a huge gap in equality , a large majority of people cannot afford a natural wooden floor . Laminate floors are also very hard wearing , the resistance to scratching and general wear and tear is greater than that of a natural wood floor . Laminate flooring doesn ’ t need to be sanded , so it remains costeffective over time . The laminate floor surface is completely sealed , which makes the product highly stain-resistant . There is a UV protection that is embedded in the top layers of the product which protects the floor , so there is less chance of fading or changing colour over time , as opposed to natural timber which oxidises and goes darker with time .”
// FEB / MARCH 2017 49