Laminate Flooring Maintenance | OC Flooring in Ottawa
Maintaining your laminate flooring is key to ensuring its long-lasting beauty and durability. At OC Flooring, located in Ottawa, we offer expert advice and professional services to help you keep your floors looking their best for years to come. Proper care and maintenance of laminate floors can make a significant difference in their appearance and lifespan, especially in high-traffic areas.
Essential Knowledge for Laminate Flooring Upkeep
While laminate flooring is known for its resilience, daily life, foot traffic, and the occasional spill can take a toll on even the most durable materials.
Understanding the best practices for laminate floor maintenance will not only help you preserve its original charm but can also be an important factor when choosing the right flooring for your home or business.
Here’s how to protect your investment and keep your laminate flooring looking as good as new.
Simple Tools for Keeping Dirt at Bay
Though highly durable, laminate floors require regular attention to avoid wear from dirt and grit. These small particles act like sandpaper on the surface, causing dullness over time. To maintain a fresh, polished look, it’s essential to sweep, dust mop, or vacuum frequently. We recommend using a vacuum without a beater bar to prevent surface damage, while attachments can help reach between planks and along edges.
An occasional damp mop will further freshen your floors but be cautious—excessive water can cause the laminate to expand. After damp mopping, ensure you wipe your floor thoroughly with a dry cloth to avoid water damage. Another way to protect your laminated flooring is by placing doormats at entryways to trap dirt and moisture before it reaches your floors.
Do’s and Don’ts for Maintaining Laminate Flooring
- Do use glides or protectors under furniture to prevent scratches.
- Do lift heavy furniture rather than drag it across the floor.
- Do use pieces of carpet (face down) under heavy objects when moving them.
- Do spot cleaning with the manufacturer’s recommended products to maintain the floor’s finish.
However, there are some important things to avoid:
- Don’t use abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or scouring powder.
- Don’t use soap-based detergents or “mop-and-shine” products.
- Don’t flood your laminate floor with water or cleaner, as this can lead to swelling or warping.
- Don’t attempt to wax, polish, refinish, or sand your laminate flooring.
While laminate is highly resistant to wear, it can still be damaged by sharp objects like stiletto heels. On the bright side, the finish on laminate floors is designed to resist sunlight and fading, unlike some other types of flooring.
If repairs are needed down the road, keep in mind that replacement planks may vary slightly in dye lot or texture from the original installation. However, with time, these differences will blend in with the rest of your floor.
Expert Laminate Flooring Installation and Styles at OC Flooring
By following these simple maintenance guidelines, you can enjoy the beauty and performance of your laminate floors for many years. At OC Flooring, we not only offer guidance on maintaining your laminate flooring but also specialize in professional laminate flooring installation. Whether you’re seeking contemporary or classic styles, we have a wide range of laminate flooring options to suit your aesthetic.
We proudly serve Ottawa, including the Orleans and Kanata areas. Our team is ready to assist you with both laminate flooring styles and expert installation services. Contact us today to explore our selection and schedule your consultation!
