Laminate flooring has been a popular flooring choice in contemporary dwellings attributed to its durability, affordability and uncomplicated maintenance. However, it is vital to know whether it is safe to walk on freshly placed laminate flooring to prevent harming the planks.
In this blog, we will analyse the essential aspects connected to this subject. Let’s begin by delineating laminate flooring and its advantages. Then, we will describe the elements that influence the curing and setting time of laminate flooring and offer a fundamental guideline for how long it takes for laminate flooring to set.
We will suggest the recommended waiting interval before walking on laminate flooring and the hazards of doing so too quickly. As part of our test to determine the suitability of laminate flooring for walking, we will also show you how to carry out some essential tests. Last but not least, we will cover the primary topics and offer some suggestions for maintaining and safeguarding laminate flooring.
How Long Does It Take for Laminate Flooring to Set?
The installation of laminate flooring could take many days, which depends on the scope of the endeavour and the type of flooring. Before installation, the laminate flooring has to acclimate to the temperature & humidity of the space for a minimum 48 hours. The components that affect the curing and setting time are humidity, temperature, and ventilation. The optimum temperature for installing laminate flooring is between 60-80°F, and the optimal humidity level is between 30-50%. The normal timescale to cure is as follows:
- Acclimation: 48 hours
- Installation: Couple of hours to 1 or 2 days depending on the area to be floored
- Setting: 24-48 hours
The timing may vary depending on the style of flooring and the installation technique. For example, certain varieties of laminate flooring may have a reduced acclimation period, while others may need a lengthier setting time. It is vital to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and industry standards for installing and establishing laminate flooring to guarantee its resilience and longevity.
When Can You Walk on Laminate Flooring?
When it comes to strolling on recently laid laminate flooring, it is vital to know the difference between setting time and curing time. Setting time refers to the time it takes for the glue to cure and the planks to settle uniformly into the substructure while curing time refers to the time it takes for the adhesive to attain its optimal strength and durability.
The required waiting time before walking on laminate flooring varies depending on the design of flooring and the installation method. For floating laminate flooring, it is generally safe to walk on it immediately after installation, however for glued-down laminate flooring, it is advised to wait at least 24 hours or a day to assure that the floor has completely done.
Walking on laminate flooring too abruptly could result in breaking the panels or weakening the adhesive, which can impair the longevity and durability of the flooring. It is also vital to prevent spreading heavier furniture on the laminate flooring and to maintain it from excess water and moisture to keep its quality and appearance.
How to Test Whether Laminate Flooring is Ready for Walking?
The tapping test comprises impacting the surface of the laminate flooring with a coin or a small item to check for any empty or porous portions. The moisture test comprises placing a small piece of plastic wrap on the surface of the laminate flooring and leaving it for 24 hours to check for any moisture or condensation below.
When completing these tests, it is crucial to avoid using heavy furniture or strolling with shoes on to risk hurting the timbers or compromising the adhesive. It is also vital to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and industry standards for testing and maintaining laminate flooring to guarantee its durability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, laminate flooring is undoubtedly a popular flooring option because of its longevity, cost-effectiveness and easy upkeep. It is vital to know whether it is safe to walk on freshly placed laminate flooring to prevent harming the slabs or damaging the adhesive.
It is also necessary to undertake some simple tests to verify whether laminate flooring is adequate for walking and to prevent repeated errors. By following the manufacturer’s instructions and industry standards, you can maintain and protect your laminate flooring after installation and receive its advantages for years to come.