Laminate flooring has long been a favorite in homes across the Inland Empire, and for good reason. Its durability, wide range of styles, and family-friendly nature make it a perfect choice for busy households. As flooring experts since 1954, we at Wally's Carpet & Tile have seen how a well-maintained laminate floor can stand the test of time, looking as good as the day it was installed. To help you protect your investment, we've gathered some of our best tips for keeping your laminate floors looking new for years to come.
The daily defense: Preventing scratches and damage
The key to long-lasting beauty is prevention. While laminate is incredibly tough, it's not immune to scratches and wear. The good news is that with a few simple habits, you can protect your floors from daily wear and tear.
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Mind the mats: Place doormats at every entrance to your home. This simple step can trap a surprising amount of dirt, sand, and pebbles that can act like sandpaper underfoot. A no-shoes-in-the-house policy is another easy way to keep your floors pristine.
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Felt pads are your friends: Be sure to attach felt pads to the bottom of all your furniture, especially chairs and tables that are frequently moved. These small, inexpensive pads are a powerful barrier against scratches and scuffs.
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Lift, don't drag: When rearranging furniture, always lift and carry items instead of dragging them across the floor. For heavy pieces, use furniture sliders to make the move effortless and floor-safe.
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Pet-proof your floors: If you have furry friends, keep their nails trimmed. This is a simple yet effective way to prevent scratches caused by their daily play.
Cleaning with care: The right way to clean laminate
A regular cleaning routine is essential for maintaining your laminate floors. However, using the wrong products or techniques can do more harm than good.
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Sweep or vacuum regularly: The first step to any clean is removing loose dirt and debris. A soft-bristled broom or a vacuum with a soft brush attachment is ideal. Avoid vacuums with a beater bar, as they can scratch the surface.
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Damp mop, don't soak: Laminate and excess water don't mix. When mopping, use a slightly damp mop, not a soaking wet one. A microfiber mop is an excellent choice as it's gentle and effective. For cleaning solutions, a product specifically formulated for laminate floors is best. You can also use a simple mixture of warm water and a small amount of vinegar, just be sure to test it in a discreet area first.
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Tackle spills immediately: Accidents happen, but it’s crucial to wipe up spills as soon as they occur. Prolonged exposure to liquid can seep into the seams and cause your planks to warp or swell.
Dealing with stubborn issues: From stains to gaps
Even with the best care, sometimes a little extra attention is needed.
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Removing stains: For tough stains like ink or makeup, a small amount of acetone on a clean, soft cloth can be effective. Always apply it to the cloth first, not directly to the floor, and test in an inconspicuous spot.
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Fixing minor gaps: Over time, laminate can expand and contract with changes in humidity, leading to small gaps between planks. For minor separations, you can often close the gap by using a pull bar and a rubber mallet to gently tap the planks back into place. For more persistent gaps, a color-matched wood filler or caulk can be used to make them less noticeable.
By following these simple tips, your laminate flooring will continue to be a beautiful, durable, and reliable part of your home for many years. At Wally's Carpet & Tile, we believe in providing not just quality flooring, but also the knowledge to help it last. We’re proud to be the Inland Empire’s trusted source for flooring, guided by the traditional values of a handshake and our word.
Find your perfect floor with us!
Whether you're looking for new lifeproof flooring or need advice on your existing floors, Wally's Carpet & Tile is here to help. As the Inland Empire's premier flooring company since 1954, we are committed to providing quality work and friendly service. Visit one of our physical locations in San Bernardino, Yucaipa, or Upland, or take advantage of our shop-at-home service for all locations, including Rancho Cucamonga. Let our family serve yours, and we'll fulfill our motto of "Flooring the Inland Empire one job at a time."
Our conveniently located showrooms proudly serve the following communities:
- San Bernardino showroom - Highland, Riverside, Moreno Valley, CA
- Yucaipa showroom - Redlands, Calimesa, Beaumont, CA
- Upland store - Ontario, Montclair, San Antonio Heights, Claremont, La Verne, San Dimas, CA
- Rancho Cucamonga, CA (shop at home only) - Alta Loma, Etiwanda, CA
