Laminate Flooring Maintenance

If you have considered laminate flooring for your home you are probably looking for a practical flooring solution that is durable and beautiful. The laminate flooring styles that are available these days are striking and beautiful.

Laminate flooring is highly durable but still needs basic maintenance and care to keep it looking great and preserving the warranties that come with it. New flooring is an investment and with the right care it can stay beautiful for years to come.
Laminate may be durable but it is not indestructible. The finish on your floor can dull overtime when dust is left on the surface. Dust and dirt can be abrasive on flooring but sweeping, dust mopping or vacuuming the floor regularly can help to remove the debris and keep the floor looking food. Sweeping is one of the options but vacuuming is faster and more effective. Different vacuum attachments can help to get dirt from between the planks and along the edges.

Damp mopping is also suggested occasionally. You need to remember that excessive water can cause the flooring to expand. After you mop you should use a dry cloth to ensure the floor is thoroughly dried. Doormats and walk-off mats are also ideal to keep your entry ways dry and dirt free.

Glides and floor protectors should be placed on the bottom of your furniture to help prevent scratching and abrasion. You should also take care to not drag or pull heavy furniture along the floor.

Spot cleaning and total cleanings should be done with products that are approved by the manufacturer. You should never use abrasive cleaners, soruing power or steel wool products on laminate. Also products like mop-and-shine and soap-based detergents are not advised.

Remember to never flood your floor with water. Wax and polish should also not be used on laminate. Stiletto heels or other blunt objects can also damage laminate flooring.

Laminate flooring cannot be sanded or refinished. Sanding this type of flooring can ruin the flooring. Laminate floors do have a special finish on them that helps to protect from sunlight unlike hardwood flooring.

When installing laminate it is advised to purchase additional flooring to store and use in case boards become damaged and need to be replaced. This flooring may look slightly different because it comes from a different dye lot. Over time and with use the flooring will look more and more uniform. Consult the manufacture’s care instructions for additional maintenance and care recommendations and instructions.

With the proper care and maintenance your laminate flooring will be a lasting part of your home.