Laminate

Care

• Sweep, dust, or vacuum regularly with hard floor attachment (not the beater bar).
• Remove spills promptly, never allow liquids to stand on your floor.
• Do not wash or wet mop the floor with soap, water, oil soap detergent or other household cleaners.
• Clean with recommended products according to manufacturers instructions.
• Do not use steel wool, abrasive cleaners or ammoniated or chlorinated cleaners.
• Do not use any type of polish, finish, buffing or polishing machines.
• Place mats and throw rugs at doorways to prevent tracking of dirt, grit and sand.
• To prevent slippage of area rugs, use an approved vinyl rug underlayment.
• Use floor protectors on furniture and chairs.
• Never try to slide heavy objects across the floor.
• A protective mat should be used under chairs with castors.
• Keep your pet’s nails trimmed.

Maintenance

Laminate floors are fade, stain, dent, burn and scratch resistant, however it is not “bullet proof” and can be damaged. Laminate is water resistant, but not water proof, and can be damaged due to excess or standing water.  If a problem arises, there are a few ways to repair or hide the damage.

The first and most difficult method is to replace the affected board(s). All manufacturers have instructions on “how to replace a board”. This will require some tools, patiece and skill. To replace a board you must follow the specific instructions of the manufacturer or hire a professional.Some manufacturers also have “touch up kits” available. These kits usually consist of acrylic or latex putty to fill in small scratches or dents.

Maintain relative indoor humidity of 35%-65%throughout the year to minimize natural expansion and contraction.

During heating season (dry)- use a humidifier. Turning off shower vent fan and opening dishwasher to dry dishes also adds moisture to the air.

During non-heating season (wet)- use an air conditioner, de-humidifier, or periodically turn on heat to remove excess moisture from the air.