What are Laminates?
Wood Laminate Flooring is made with layers that are fused together during a lamination process of heat and pressure. As a result, this flooring product has improved strength and stability that creates a realistic look of hardwood flooring. Wood Laminate Flooring is comprised of the following layers:
- Top Layer: Finished to protect from scratches, fading, wear and stains.
- Visual Layer: Highly detailed and realistic print to give the natural look and texture of real wood.
- Core Layer: Made from a high-density fiber board that provides strength and stability.
- Bottom Layer: Melamine backer to provide stability.
Why Choose Laminates?
- Alergies. Unlike carpets that can store dust, pollen, animal hair and dander if not properly maintained, laminate floors form a tight seal that cannot be penetrated by these components. In order to keep your home free from allergens, vacuum regularly.
- Maintenance. Some hardwoods require polishing and waxing to keep them looking their best. Not the case with laminates. All you need is a broom or a vacuum cleaner and a laminate floor care mop readily available from our store. That’s it!
- Children. No one likes the thought of children crawling on dirty carpet or floors. Laminates, with their tight seal, form a barrier against embedded dirt. Regular vacuuming and damp mopping is all it takes to create a flooring surface that’s perfect for children.
- Pets. Pets, like adults have accidents and accidents can permanently damage a wood floor. Same with claws, which can easily scratch a wood floor’s surface to such an degree, that only sanding and resurfacing will fix it. Not so with laminate floors. Just clean up the accidents quickly and be worry free from warped or rotted surfaces.
Laminate Cleaning and Maintenance
Here are several simple steps that you can take to keep your laminate flooring clean and to ensure that it looks great for many years.
- Dust mop or vacuum with a soft brush or wood floor accessory to keep your laminate floor clean from dust, dirt or grit.
- A damp cloth or mop can be used without damage to the laminate flooring panels, but do not use excessive water. Dry the floor thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth.
- Blot up spills or water from wet feet or footwear immediately with a clean, dry cloth, sponge, or paper towel. Do not allow excess liquid to remain on the surface of your laminate floor.
- Do not use soap-based detergents, abrasive cleaners, or combined “clean and shine” products on your laminate floor.
- Do not use steel wool or other scouring pads that may scratch laminate panels.
- Do not wax or polish your laminate flooring.
- Do not steam clean or use chemicals that may damage the laminate flooring surface.
- Use acetone or nail polish remover sparingly and only on stubborn substances such as tar, asphalt, paint, or oil. Then immediately wipe clean with a damp cloth.
*These are basic tips and guidelines, different manufacturers may vary. Please consult with your Flooring Expert if you have any questions or concerns.