More and more homeowners are choosing laminate flooring because of its low cost, long lifespan and extensive range of styles. Apart from their durability, the ease of their maintenance makes these laminate floors so adored by modern homes and businesses. Like all flooring types, these floors are capable of braving wear and tear over time and must be maintained. In this post, we will examine the durability of laminate floors and offer maintenance advice. However, how long is the lifespan of laminate floors likely to last? Let us explore the variables that affect the lifespan of laminate flooring.
You most likely adore laminate wood flooring if you recently invested because of its incredibly genuine wood appearance, outstanding price and of course its low maintenance appeal. No flooring is zero-maintenance. As we all know, it takes some work to make sure they remain used for as long as feasible. Although laminate floors are incredibly strong due to their various wear layers, they are not invincible.
Here are some easy ways to maintain your laminate floors, even if your home is quite busy with children and pets.
Rule 1: Keep It Dry and Cool
While there are water-resistant laminate hardwood flooring options, they are generally not water-proof. A laminate surface is composed of layers of composite wood, which, if exposed to excessive moisture, can warp, buckle, expand and develop mould and mildew, resulting in irreversible damage. The following advice can help you keep your flooring dry:
- Spills should always be cleaned up right away.
- Turn on an air conditioner or a dehumidifier if the weather is humid.
- Maintain the temperature in the room between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Always mop your floors with water. When cleaning, never soak the laminate.
- Even in tiny amounts, avoid leaving the cleaner on the floor for an extended period of time.
Rule 2: It’s Important to Prevent
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, you know! This is particularly valid when it comes to floor maintenance. Protect your floor from scratches, dents, nicks and finish damage with the help of the proper protective products. Here are some tips for maintaining flawless laminate floors:
- Cover entryway flooring with thick walk-off mats to keep debris, mud, rain and snow from causing damage.
- To prevent surface damage, always place felt covers on the bottom of furniture legs to create a layer of cushioning between the furniture and your floors.
- Make sure that nothing sharp touches the floor! Keep your pets’ nails clipped and steer clear of sharp shoes.
- Steer clear of direct sunshine. To prevent UV damage, cover floors with area rugs and use shades or curtains.
Rule 3: Conduct Timely Repairs
Although laminate is composed of composite wood layers, its top is a wood-look print film, so it cannot be sanded and refinished like hardwood. The good news is that you don’t have to tear out your floor every time it gets damaged. Certain problems can be resolved very easily using specific tools and methods.
If there is significant laminate damage, you can fix it with the following advice.
- Stock up on extra boards. Keep in mind that if the damage is severe, they can be replaced one for one.
- If the damage is minor, you might be able to fix it with a floor filler solution, which would eliminate the need to replace the planks. Wax pencils can be used to hide little flaws and hairline scratches.
It goes without saying that the longevity of laminate floors is one of their main benefits. Usually, premium materials that are meant to endure wear and tear are used to make laminate flooring. Still, it’s critical to address any abrasive damage as soon as it appears to guarantee that your laminate floors maintain their best appearance.
Rule 4: The Setting
The setting in which laminate floors are laid might also affect how long they last. Sunlight, dampness, and extreme temperatures may all damage laminate floors, making them warp, crack or turn yellow. Avoid direct sunlight and put your laminate floors in a climate-controlled space to protect them from these elements.
Rule 5: Right Selection
Selecting the appropriate laminate floor can assist in guaranteeing its lifetime, in addition to routine maintenance. The floor’s longevity and cleaning capabilities may be impacted by the materials utilised during production. For instance, some laminate floors are made to withstand more water, while others are made to be simpler to maintain.
Along with style and finish, it’s important to choose the right grade of laminate flooring based on the expected foot traffic. Laminate floors are graded from AC1 to AC6, with higher numbers indicating greater durability:
- AC1: Suitable for low-traffic areas like bedrooms or guest rooms.
- AC2: Works well in moderately used residential spaces like dining rooms.
- AC3: Ideal for high-traffic residential zones, including living rooms and hallways.
- AC4: Durable enough for both homes and light commercial settings like offices or boutiques.
- AC5: Built for heavy commercial use in places such as restaurants and retail stores.
- AC6: Meant for extreme commercial use in public and high-impact areas.
Choosing the right AC rating ensures your laminate flooring can handle the demands of your space while maintaining its look and performance over time.
Rule 6: Sticking To The Set Guidelines
It’s critical to adhere to the cleaning and maintenance guidelines provided by the manufacturer to preserve your laminate floors. With specific compounds that remove spills and stains without causing damage to the floor, many laminate floors are made to be easily cleaned. But it’s crucial to stick to the suggested cleaning supplies and stay away from any that could damage the floor.
All things considered, laminate floors are a strong and reasonably priced option for a lot of residences and commercial buildings. Your laminate floors will continue to look their best for many years to come if you take care of any abrasive damage as soon as it happens and adhere to the cleaning and maintenance guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
Wrapping Up:
Therefore, you see, installing an eye-catching laminate floor is not enough. You need to maintain it in the right way to ensure that it lasts long, serves its purpose accurately, and justifies your investment to the fullest.
That’s the reason you need to consult with the best experts and installers in the industry, who will not only guide you to choose the right and the most superior quality for you but will also install it immaculately, to leave you 100% satisfied.