Laminate Maintenance Guide

Laminate Maintenance Guide

There is no getting around it, life and living are hard on any flooring and even resilient laminate will eventually show the effects of stains and spills, time and traffic.

You need to know the best techniques for taking care of it and keeping your laminate flooring in its beautiful, inviting and valuable original condition.

Additionally, knowing what is expected of you in terms of upkeep can be a determining factor in your purchase choice.

Read on to understand exactly how to take care of your investment.

Tools to use in Dealing with Dirt

Laminate floors are beautiful and long-lasting but not indestructible. Floors can turn dull if unattended dirt acts as an abrasive on its surface.

One can avoid that by sweeping, dust mopping or vacuuming regularly to get rid of loose dirt and grit.

For faster cleaning, you can use a broom, or a vacuum cleaner without a beater bar is also recommended.

Vacuum cleaner attachments are helpful in picking up dirt from between planks, tiles or along edges.

An occasional damp mopping is also recommended. Nonetheless, your laminate flooring can expand if too much water is used while cleaning.

After moistened mopping, a clean dry cloth can be used to wipe your floor thoroughly.

Placing doormats or walk-off mats at each entryway can help in collecting excessive moisture and dirt before they enter your home.

The Do’s and Don’ts

• Glides or floor protectors on the bottom of furniture will reduce possible scratching or abrasion.
• It is essential to lift heavy furniture instead of dragging or pulling.
• Use pieces of carpet face down under heavy things when moving them across the floor.
• Spot cleaning and occasional comprehensive cleaning of your laminate floor can be done using the manufacturer’s suggested products.
• Avoid using abrasive cleaners, steel wool or scouring powder.
• Avoid applying soap-based detergents or “mop-and-shine” products.
• Do not flood your floor with water or cleaner.
• Do not wax or polish your laminate floor.
• Never try refinish or sand your laminate floor.
• Note that your laminate floor can be ruined by stiletto heels.
• The finish on your laminate floor can help guard the floor from sunlight and the typical fading you find with aging hardwood floors.
• Keep in mind that if a repair is necessary in the future, the replacement product can be a considerably different dye lot and/or texture than the initial installation.
• With time and usage, the repair will fit in with your original product.  Please take note that manufacturers may discontinue products from time to time.
• For additional care procedures, refer to the manufacturer’s care and maintenance instructions and recommendations.

Knowledge Guarantees Longevity

By understanding and following these basic care recommendations you can be confident that your laminate flooring will offer you many years of beauty and lasting performance.