LEARN EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CARING FOR LAMINATE FLOORING TILES
If you are thinking about purchasing or already have flooring plastic laminate tiles, you’re probably already aware of the many advantages laminate flooring options offer. However, it is also important to know how to properly care for your floor to get the most out of your investment. By following this guide, you’ll have everything you need to know to ensure you can enjoy your floor for a long time.
Cleaning your Plastic Laminate Flooring Tiles
Although laminate flooring tiles can imitate the look of natural materials, they require their own methods for cleaning. Because proper cleaning of your laminate flooring tiles is essential to protect the life of your floor, it’s important to use the right products when you clean. Cleaning products to use include:
- Dry mop
- Sponge mop
- Water
- Laminate-only cleaner
- Vinegar solution (equal parts water and vinegar)
These products are safe to use when cleaning your plastic laminate tiles. When you clean your floor, dry mop the area first to pick up any dirt or dust you can. Make sure the floor is clear of all loose materials before you apply a cleaning liquid. Then, using water, a vinegar solution, or laminate-only cleaner, mop or spot clean the floor. Make sure you dry the floor immediately after cleaning for the best results.
Plastic Laminate Flooring Maintenance
A few helpful maintenance tips can go a long way in promoting the longevity of your floor. In addition to cleaning, follow these suggestions to keep your floor properly maintained:
- Sweeping
You can maintain your floor in between cleaning sessions by sweeping it often. Soft-bristle brooms are the best for this type of maintenance. If you use a vacuum, make sure you only use a soft brush attachment.
- Rugs
Laminate flooring tiles can become damaged from scratching and scuffing over time. To avoid this, consider putting rugs near entrances to catch dirt from the outside before it gets on your floor. Additionally, it’s a good idea to put rugs under heavy furniture, as things like couches can cause damage when they slide across laminate flooring tiles.
- Gaps
Laminate flooring tiles need to be tightly interlocked. If you notice any gaps in your floor, it’s a good idea to close them. This is especially true near areas where your floor is exposed to moisture, as excessive moisture can seep into the gaps and damage the floor. To fix this, you can apply a small amount carpenter’s glue to the opening and push the gap closed. Put painter’s tape over the area until the glue has dried.
- Trimming
If you have pets, such as dogs or cats, you’ll want to be conscious of how long their nails are. Pet nails can scratch off the protective surface layer on your laminate flooring tiles. To avoid this, be sure to trim your pet’s nails when they get too long.
What to Avoid
While there are many do’s to caring for your plastic laminate flooring tiles, there are also a few don’ts. To protect the life of your floor, avoid these things whenever possible:
- Wet Mop
Avoid using wet mops when cleaning. Dry mops and damp mops are safe for your floor.
- Wax/Polish
Waxing and polishing can harm your floor. Laminate flooring tiles already have the treatment built in, so avoid these methods of cleaning.
- Pine scented cleaners
These cleaners will leave behind a soapy residue that will dull your floor. Stick to laminate-only cleaners if you choose to use cleaning products.
- Sharp objects
Although laminate flooring tiles are very durable, sharp objects can pierce the surface layer and damage them. Avoid walking on your floor with stiletto shoes or soccer cleats to avoid this.
- Water
If you spill water or liquid on your floor, wipe the area immediately. Water exposure can ruin laminate floors, causing a myriad of problems ranging from warping to gapping.
With the right flooring care tips, you can enjoy your flooring plastic laminate tiles for years to come. Floor Coverings International is a laminate flooring company that specializes in installation, care, and maintenance of flooring plastic laminate tiles. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please call us today!
New Jersey: 856-324-4849
Pennsylvania: 215-607-6236
Vermont: 802-891-4086
We look forward to hearing from you!
