Three Essential Guidelines for Preserving Your Laminate Floor
Laminate flooring is an ideal alternative to traditional wooden floors in homes. This material is advantageous because it is durable and resilient. It can withstand significant mechanical stress and impact without damage. Also, laminate flooring products are available in diverse appearances. You can choose the most suitable aesthetics for your home, including surfaces that mimic the authentic appearance of expensive hardwood. However, laminate products are not everlasting. Poor care and maintenance can lead to premature degradation. Here are practical tips for preserving your laminate floors.
Protect the Laminate Surface
You should protect the surface of your laminate flooring to prevent damage. In most cases, the floorboards are scratched and chipped due to contact with unfavourable external factors. For instance, the appeal of the flooring will decline if furniture is dragged across the surface or if people frequently step on the floor with sandy shoes. You can minimise the damage by installing furniture pads. The cushioning will prevent scuffing of the floor when the pieces are moved.
You should also consider placing rugs around the house, particularly in areas of heavy foot traffic. Where possible, you should discourage the use of outdoor shoes in the house. For instance, high- and tough-heeled shoes can cause some floor scuffing. Soft-soled shoes are more advantageous for indoor use. It is also advisable to place simple mats at your entrances. Additionally, you must remember to protect your floors from prolonged contact with water.
Repair Scratches on the Boards
Laminate floors are quite resistant to scratches, especially with the right care practices. However, the surface is not invulnerable. If you notice this type of damage in your home, you will need to conduct immediate repairs to avoid compromising the appeal of the flooring. If the scratch on the floor is relatively small, you can fill in the damage with wax. You will need to use a wax pencil to fill in the scrape before blending it into the boards. If the damage is deeper, you can fill it in using repair putty made for use on laminate floors.
Replace Damaged Boards
In some cases, the damage might be irreparable using wax pencil or putty. If this is the situation in your home, you will need to plan for the replacement of the damaged boards. This solution is also ideal if your boards are broken or warped. If you decide to replace laminate boards, you must choose products which match perfectly with your current flooring. It is also advisable to choose professional floor restoration for reliable and long-lasting results.
Contact a flooring company to learn more about laminated flooring.