Care
& Maintenance
Maintenance
of Laminate Flooring
Since the
inception of laminate flooring, ease of maintenance has been one
of its largest assets. Due to the composition and construction
of the product, as well as the extremely hard Aluminum Oxide wear
layer, laminate flooring is perhaps the easiest type of flooring
to maintain.
General daily maintenance requires vacuuming, sweeping and dust
mopping. Several generic cleaning solutions are also available
to clean laminate floors. Most major laminate flooring manufacturers
also have their own cleaning kits with instructions. Most kits
contain a terry cloth mop and a spray-on cleaning solution. The
cleaner is sprayed onto the mop-head and then the floor is wiped
clean. It is very important that you follow the maintenance schedule
of the product you purchase. Ask your retailer or manufacturer
on the specifics of maintaining your floor. Virtually all of the
warranties require a specific maintenance schedule be followed.
Laminate floors are fade, stain, dent, burn and scratch resistant.
However, it is still possible that you may end up with a scratch,
"nick" or dent that will require repair. Laminate flooring is
very tough, but it is not "bullet proof". If a problem arises,
there are a few ways to repair or hide the damage.
The first and most difficult method is to replace the affected
board(s). All manufacturers have instructions on "How to replace
a board". This will require some tools, patience and skill. "Glue-less"
laminate floors should be the easiest when board replacement is
required. To replace a board you must follow the specific instructions
of the manufacturer of the flooring you are installing, or hire
a professional. If you decide to hire a professional installer,
make sure that they follow the instructions as well. Although
they have "done it before", remember that it is your warranty
you must consider.
Major manufacturers also have "touch up" kits available. These
kits may include acrylic or latex putty, wax pencils or crayons.
This type of repair kit is for small scratches and/or dents. These
kits are a very cost effective way of repairing your laminate
flooring.
The best way to keep your laminate floor looking its best is to
understand its limitations. You must follow the maintenance techniques
and schedules of the flooring you purchase. Do not mop any laminate
floor with soap or water. You should also use floor protectors
(felt or other) under chairs and other furniture on the flooring.
As stated earlier, laminate flooring is a very durable flooring
option, however, it can be damaged. With proper care, you will
enjoy your laminate floor for many years to come.
Author:
Jason Walker - FlooringGuide.com Editorial Staff
Jason Walker is a Professional Flooring Consultant
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