It seems that there is a faux version of
just about everything from fur to floors. The latest trend is laminate wood flooring where laminate wood floors look just
like real wood floors. Laminated wood
flooring has become very popular in recent years as a cheaper
alternative to those searching for a rustic homely looking floor. The thing to
remember is that a laminate wood floor requires different cleaning techniques from a real wooden floor.
Similar to the laminate material that
covered kitchen countertops for a generation or two, the laminate wood planks do not significantly raise the height
of the existing floor, which makes it easier to plan transitions from room to
room. While durable and easy to keep clean, laminate falls short when it comes
to moisture. Standing water can infiltrate the fibreboard core, causing the
material to expand and buckle. With laminates, it’s critical to caulk gaps
along the walls, around the tub, and surrounding other fixtures to prevent
water infiltration. Laminates don't come in the same variety of styles you’ll
find with ceramics and vinyl which is a negative point but you will still find
a large selection to choose from.
Laminate offers the widest array of designs
of any surfacing material. Most laminated wooden flooring planks include a few layers of paper (which is where
the wood design is printed). Although this paper is protected with a high-tech
coating, it still requires special care to ensure it maintains its beauty and
durability through the years. Most wood laminate floor companies do not
recommend using cleaners like regular floor cleaners. Instead, follow these
easy steps:
Sweep
it with a broom
Although laminate wood floors are very durable, it is possible to
scratch them with a small pebble or sharp object. Because of this, dry mops
with metal edges can actually leave marks on a laminate floor. Opt for a plain
plastic or bristle broom, and sweep lightly to avoid scratching rocks or stones
across the surface of the floor. Remove all major debris and dirt from the
floor this way.
Dust
it
These days, companies are making
"mops" that are essentially nothing more than a disposable dusting
cloth on the end of a long plastic stick. These "mops" are perfect
for cleaning up any small bits of dust and dirt that may be clinging to the
floor after you've swept it. Carefully dust the floor.
Spray
it
Choose only a cleanser marked safe for
laminate flooring. Otherwise, you could end up with a soapy cleaner that will
leave a streaky residue or film on your floor. Spray the cleaner lightly across
the entire floor.
Mop
it
Use a new cloth on your "dust
mop" to mop the moisture of the cleaner across the floor. Apply pressure,
but not so much that you leave a scratch across your flooring. Gently use the
mop to "buff" the floor as you clean it.
In this way your laminate wood floor will remain just as good as any real
wood and last for years.
