Laminate flooring is certainly one of the more affordable options when it comes to floor coverings and it makes a strong, scuff-resistant surface for high traffic areas. Like most manufactured flooring, there are several different types that clients can choose from. One of the main differences is direct pressure laminate (DPL) and high pressure laminate (HPL).
Direct pressure laminate is by far the most common type on the market. All laminate flooring is made by pressing different layers together–the backing or balancing layer, the high density fiber board, the decorative layer and the wear layer. For DPL, the pressure used to create it is anywhere from 300 to 500 pounds per square inch. This creates strong and lasting pieces that are ideal for areas with high traffic.
High pressure laminate uses more pressure to create, at least 1,300 pounds per square inch. In addition to the standard materials found in DPL, the HPL includes an additional layer, which is a sheet of paper with a special resin that makes the plank stiff and strong. The layers of HPL are also subjected to heat along with pressure, and are done a few layers at a time instead of all at once, as DPL is. The result is a laminate flooring that is extra durable and has a longer life than DPL.
Customers that want laminate flooring should be informed of the differences between DPL and HPL so they can make a wise decision about which one will best meet their needs.
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