Laminate’s Longevity: A Simple Guide to Care and Maintenance

Laminate flooring is a top choice for homeowners in Southern California, thanks to its stunning looks, durability, and affordability. It provides the elegant appearance of hardwood or tile without the high cost or intensive maintenance. But to ensure your laminate floor lives up to its promise of longevity, it requires a simple, regular care routine. At Flooring 101, we believe that enjoying your new floors should be a pleasure, not a chore. This simple guide to laminate’s longevity will provide you with the essential tips you need to keep your floor looking beautiful for years to come.

The Basics: A Simple Daily Routine

A little routine maintenance goes a long way in preserving the beauty of your laminate floor.

• Sweep or Vacuum Regularly: The most important step is to remove dirt, dust, and grit. These small particles can act like sandpaper on your floor’s surface, causing scratches over time. A daily or every-other-day sweep with a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum with a soft floor attachment is all you need.
• Wipe Up Spills Immediately: While modern laminate is more water-resistant than older versions, it’s not waterproof. Spills, especially acidic liquids like juice or vinegar, should be wiped up immediately to prevent any damage to the surface.

Cleaning Your Laminate Floor: What to Do and What to Avoid

When it’s time for a deeper clean, using the right products and techniques is essential.

What to Use:

• Laminate-Specific Cleaners: The best products to use are those specifically designed for laminate flooring. They are pH-neutral and won’t leave a sticky residue or damage the protective wear layer.
• A Damp Mop: The golden rule for cleaning laminate is to use a damp, not wet, mop. Excess water can seep into the seams and cause swelling or warping. A microfiber mop is an excellent choice as it can be used with minimal moisture.

What to Avoid:

• Abrasive Cleaners: Avoid using any abrasive cleaners or pads, as these can scratch the surface.
• Wax-Based Cleaners or Polish: Laminate has a clear wear layer and does not need to be waxed or polished. These products will leave a dull, waxy buildup on the surface.
• Steam Cleaners: Steam cleaners use high-pressure, high-temperature steam that can penetrate the laminate’s seams and damage the core layer.
• Excess Water: Never use a wet mop or pour water directly on your laminate floor.

Protecting Your Investment

A few simple precautions can significantly extend the life and beauty of your laminate floors.

• Use Furniture Pads: Place felt or rubber pads on the legs of all your furniture to prevent scratches and scuffs when furniture is moved.
• Use Area Rugs: Area rugs are an excellent way to protect your floor in high-traffic areas and entryways. They will trap dirt and debris before it can be tracked across your floor.

• Trim Pet Claws: Keep your pet’s claws trimmed to prevent scratches on the surface.

Dealing with Dents, Scratches, and More Serious Issues

Even with the best care, life happens. For minor scratches, a laminate floor repair kit or a touch-up marker can be a lifesaver. These products are specifically designed to fill in and conceal small imperfections, helping to restore the uniform look of your floor. For deeper scratches or small dents, a wax filler stick that matches the color of your floor can be melted and applied to the affected area.

If you notice your laminate planks beginning to separate, this can be a sign of improper installation, moisture issues, or a lack of proper expansion gaps. While a professional can sometimes fix this by using special tools to pull the planks back together, it’s often a sign that a professional’s eye is needed. Never attempt to force planks back into place, as this can cause irreversible damage. Instead, consider a professional consultation from our team. At Flooring 101, we offer advanced maintenance and repair services to address these more serious concerns, ensuring the long-term integrity and beauty of your flooring. Our goal is to provide peace of mind by offering solutions that go beyond routine cleaning, helping you protect your investment from a range of potential issues.

Flooring 101 Laminate Care & Maintenance

Following a simple maintenance routine will ensure your laminate floor continues to look as beautiful as the day it was installed. At Flooring 101, we are committed to helping you protect your investment. We offer a selection of professional-grade cleaners and accessories to help you maintain your beautiful floors for a lifetime.

At Flooring 101, we’ve spent over 50 years perfecting the flooring experience for our customers in Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties. Our goal is to make your journey from selection to long-term enjoyment a true pleasure. We handle every step for you, starting with free in-home measurements and estimates. Our professional laminate installation ensures a flawless finish, and learn more about laminate maintenance tips to keep your new floors looking their best. To begin your journey, contact us or visit one of our showroom locations in Oxnard, Ventura, Bakersfield, Goleta, Thousand Oaks, Santa Maria, or Simi Valley, CA.