How to Clean Your Floor like a Pro – Laminate
Of all the different types of flooring, few if any create a debate like laminate flooring does. Over the years, a certain stigma has been attached with laminate flooring that makes it less appealing. The truth of the matter is, however, that no matter how many people call it “fake” or “cheap,” it is completely a matter of personal preference. Some people like the flawless aesthetic it creates and those that do are often rewarded with a flooring material that is affordable and very easy to clean. This being said, there are still some useful pieces of information to keep in mind to keep your laminate flooring fresh and pristine and to clean it in the most effective way possible.
One of the most obvious features of laminate flooring is that stains are very easily removed from them. Unlike carpeting, which noticeably absorbs and clings onto common staining items, and hardwood flooring and tiles, which can capture dirt in the creases, laminate is completely resistant to long-term staining. All it takes to wipe something off the floor is nothing more than a simple paper towel. This is very convenient for many, and one of the biggest draws to laminate flooring.
There are some conventional cleaning techniques that are less effective on laminate flooring however, contrary to other flooring options. For example, sweeping should generally be avoided on laminate floors unless you are using a dry dust mop. The reasoning behind this is that regular brooms can inadvertently leave behind tiny particles. Vacuuming is the better alternative to traditional sweeping in this instance. In addition, soap, or at least too much of it, tends to leave a residue behind that is sometimes even harder to get out than the original substance itself. Soapy water is not really necessary when it comes to cleaning laminate flooring.
The biggest weakness that laminate flooring has is to water and other liquids. If left without drying, excess water will seep under the flooring and damage its foundation. Many people make this mistake while cleaning their laminate floors using too much water. Best practice is to use only a little water, so that none is excessively left over, and have it air dry within a few minutes of being cleaned. The same concept applies for other cleaning agents as well as water, including specific laminate cleaners found in home improvement stores.
For the sake of longevity, polishing the floor is a good idea every once in a while is a good idea as well. Typically this can be done with exclusive laminate floor polish, however microfiber cleaning sloths make for the best conduit of applying this to your flooring. An occasional polish will help the floor maintain a pristine look and give it an appealing shine. This couples well with this type of flooring’s durability and resistance to chipping or denting. Even after a while, when scratches do appear, a good polish can cover up most of them for a while.
While laminate flooring is very easy to clean, it unfortunately also has an ability to be repaired fully. Over time, the laminate will become worn down and this will happen faster if it is damaged. Unlike other types of flooring, which can be sanded or refurbished, laminate flooring cannot be and must be replaced. On the positive side, since laminate flooring is much more affordable than hardwood or other kinds, it is cost effective to install or reinstall laminate flooring even if it will have to be replaced years later.
Overall, laminate flooring has many advantages that make it a popular choice for drier rooms in the home, despite the stigma sometimes attached to it. It is easy to clean and resistant to virtually every kind of stain and pressure damage. The downside however is that there is no real way to replace it once time and damage have taken their toll. Is it almost time for you to replace your laminate flooring? If it is, or if you are looking to install new laminate flooring into a different part of your home, then look no further than the services of Naffco Flooring and Interiors. For more information about how we can help with your laminate flooring or other kinds of interior home renovations, please call the South Tampa office at (813) 254-4066, the Carrollwood office at (813) 961-1362, or the Brandon office at (813) 413-8313.