Laminate flooring is simple to care for and maintain. However,
certain steps should be taken to ensure you are properly
cleaning and taking care of them to maintain your floor's
warranty and keep them looking great. As tedious and boring as
it might seem, take the time to read the manufacturer's warranty
for your laminate flooring. It will provide useful information
to ensure your warranty remains intact for the entire warranty
period. Some manufacturers will void the warranty if you install
the flooring in wet areas such as bathrooms, so be sure to read
the fine print.
lami
nate flooring manufacturer as well. It will guide you
through the proper care for your particular brand of flooring
and will offer suggestions in case problems arise. Be sure to
ask your installers about post-installation care, because some
manufacturers recommend not mopping for at least 48 hours after
installation. It all depends on the brand and style of laminate
flooring you purchased - they are not all created equal.
Cleaning Techniques
As far as mopping your laminate flooring is concerned, take care
not to soak it with water. If water gets in between the slight
cracks, it could damage the boards. Only a damp mop is needed to
clean dirty laminate flooring after you have swept or vacuumed.
Additionally, you should never apply wax or acrylic floor
polishes to your laminate flooring. Check the manufacturer's
guide for stain removal instructions in case of spills such as
nail polish or grease.
To avoid light surface scratching, you can purchase door mats
for each entrance of your home which opens up to your laminate
flooring. By wiping off shoes on the door mats before walking
across the laminate floors, you are less likely to have dirt and
grit grinding into the surface to cause scratching and wear.
Although laminate flooring is quite durable, it can be scratched
by dragging large or heavy pieces of furniture across the
surface. If you need to move heavy furniture, be sure to use
furniture gliders or a furniture dolly with wheels to place it
where it needs to be. Know What to Avoid
Avoiding damage is much easier when it comes to laminate
flooring that with traditional hardwood flooring. However, you
do need to take certain precautions to keep it looking as new as
possible. If you know you will be working with sharp or heavy
objects around the floors, use a mat to protect them. If you are
installing new ceiling fans or heavy light fixtures, for
example, it is a good idea to protect your floors with a thick
tarp in case the object accidentally fall onto the laminate
flooring.
Cleaning up spills right away is also a good way to keep things
from seeping into the flooring. To clean and sanitize areas
where pets have accidents, use a drop of vinegar distilled in
warm water on a damp cloth and immediately wipe clean.
About the author:
John Erickson, a
carpet
installation expert and resident of St. Petersburg, Florida,
writes on home improvement tips, carpeting and keeping up a
beautiful house.
