Laminate is a popular flooring choice, mostly due to its hardiness and vast array of designs. It’s created from multiple compressed layers, topped with printed paper and coated with a clear protective surface. It can’t be resurfaced, unlike wooden floor, so won’t outlast its more expensive counterparts. However, treated well, a laminate floor should last between 15 and 25 years and, being a low-maintenance flooring choice, it really doesn’t take much to keep it looking good. Here are some tips as to how to look after your lovely new floor.
Prevent damage
Prevention is always better than cure and, as such, it’s a good idea to use doormats in areas in which dirt could be trailed in from shoes (or pets). Adding adhesive felt pads to the underside of furniture will prevent scratches when items are moved, and try to lift rather than scrape chairs and other furniture items when moving them.
Mop it up
Laminate isn’t too fond of water and spills should be mopped straight away. This will avoid moisture seeping between joins, causing warping or discolouration.
Sweeping
Laminate has a scratch-resistant coating, however it is advisable to sweep it regularly to avoid a build-up of debris or dirt that could damage the surface. Use a spray mop rather than a wring mop when cleaning as this will keep moisture to a minimum. Check with the flooring manufacturer to ensure that any chemicals you are cleaning with are suitable.
Repair or replace
If your floor does succumb to the odd scratch or two, you can pick up repair kits pretty cheaply, which will deal with minor scratches. If the damage is deeper, you may have no choice but to replace the entire plank; however even this is a relatively simple job as the flooring is fitted together using a click-lock fitting system.