CARE AND
CLEANING
CARE
AND MAINTENANCE
Vinyl flooring
(or "linoleum" as we once commonly called it) has evolved into
one of the easiest floor covering products to maintain. Most vinyl
floors are installed in rooms that do require some extra care,
such as kitchens, bathrooms and mudrooms. Since items like tomato
sauces, hairspray and grit and sand cause some concerns for vinyl
floors, proper daily care is required.
General daily maintenance requires vacuuming, sweeping and dust
mopping. Several generic cleaning solutions are also available
to clean vinyl floors. Most major vinyl flooring manufacturers
have their own cleaning products with complete instructions.
Also, most manufacturers have a two or three-part maintenance
package, which includes a cleaner, stripper and refinisher. The
cleaners are designed for regular use. Typically, this product
is used as weekly cleaner that is diluted and mopped onto the
floor. The "stripper" is used once or twice a year, to remove
any soapy residue, that slowly builds up over time. The "refinisher"
or "dressing" is done rarely, but it does help to restore the
original luster to the floor. 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, as your warrantee will likely depend on it.
Vinyl flooring can be damaged fairly easily. Care must be taken
to use felt, or other types, of chair and furniture pads. These
pads will help to prevent damage to your flooring caused by moving
furniture. Most manufacturers recommend that chairs with rollers
not be used on sheet vinyl flooring. If a floor does get damaged
and a small cut is visible, manufacturers suggest using a small
amount of seam sealer to close the gap and protect the floor from
further damage. The seam sealer is normally used to bond two pieces
of vinyl flooring together.
The best way to keep your vinyl floor looking its best is to understand
its limitations. You must follow the maintenance techniques and
schedules of the flooring you purchase. You should also use floor
protectors (felt or other) under chairs and other furniture on
the flooring. As stated earlier, vinyl flooring is a durable flooring
option, however, it can be damaged. With proper care, you will
enjoy your vinyl floor for many years to come.
Author:
Jason Walker - FlooringGuide.com Editorial Staff
Jason Walker is a Professional Flooring Consultant
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