Laminate:

Laminate flooring's revolutionary technology has made it the most popular floor type in the market today. It has the look of real wood flooring, yet it is less expensive and maintenance free.

Laminate flooring is composed of four layers:

The surface layer of aluminum oxide provides high durability and protection against fade, wear and stain, depending on traffic.

The pattern layer is a photograph applied to a melamine laminate, providing the different types of wood textures and colors.

The core is a highly pressed mix of organic products, melamine, and silicone, depending on the product and manufacturer.

The backing is a paper or plastic layer to provide balance of the floor.

Laminate is installed as a floating floor with a layer of foam that is placed between the laminate and the subfloor. Pre-excisting sub-floors could range from concrete and tile to vinyl and wood.