The Longevity of Laminate Flooring, and How To Extend It.
Laminate flooring has become a popular choice among homeowners due to its attractive appearance, affordability, and durability. Known for its ability to replicate the look of hardwood or stone, laminate provides a practical solution for high-traffic areas and homes with pets or children. This post will delve into what affects the longevity of laminate flooring and provide detailed strategies to extend its lifespan.
Factors Affecting Laminate Flooring Longevity
Several factors influence how long laminate flooring can last:
1. Quality of Material
Laminate flooring comes in various grades and thicknesses. Higher-quality laminates, typically thicker and with a more durable wear layer, can withstand wear and tear better, lasting longer than thinner, lower-grade versions.
2. Installation Quality
Proper installation is crucial to the longevity of laminate flooring. Poorly installed laminate can shift, warp, or even peel over time.
3. Amount of Traffic
High-traffic areas will see more wear and tear, potentially reducing the lifespan of laminate flooring. Entryways, hallways, and kitchens are particularly vulnerable.
4. Exposure to Moisture
Laminate flooring is not waterproof. Excessive moisture can cause the boards to swell, warp, or delaminate, significantly shortening their life.
How to Extend the Life of Laminate Flooring
Enhancing the durability and extending the lifespan of your laminate flooring involves several best practices:
1. Regular Cleaning
- Routine Sweeping: Use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum with a hard floor attachment to remove dirt and grit that can scratch the surface.
- Damp Mopping: Clean spills and stains using a slightly damp mop. Avoid using excessive water, and never use steam mops as they can cause significant damage to laminate flooring.
2. Use the Right Cleaning Products
Always use cleaning products specifically designed for laminate flooring. Harsh chemicals can strip the protective coating and cause fading and wear.
3. Maintain Indoor Humidity Levels
Keeping the humidity levels in your home between 30% and 50% can prevent the laminate from swelling or contracting. Use dehumidifiers or humidifiers as necessary depending on the climate.
4. Protect Against Scratches and Wear
- Use Felt Pads: Place felt pads under the legs of furniture to prevent scratches when items are moved.
- Rugs and Mats: Place entry mats at doorways to catch grit, and use area rugs in high-traffic areas.
5. Immediate Attention to Spills
Wipe up spills as soon as they occur to prevent water from seeping between the planks, which can cause swelling and damage.
6. Periodic Deep Cleaning
Schedule regular deep cleaning sessions using products recommended by your flooring manufacturer to keep the floor in optimal condition.
Installing Protective Measures
1. UV Protection
To prevent fading caused by UV light, install window treatments such as blinds, curtains, or UV-blocking window films. This is particularly important in rooms that receive direct sunlight.
2. Floor Protectors
Invest in high-quality floor protectors for areas with heavy furniture to distribute the weight evenly and prevent indentation marks.
Technological Advances in Laminate Flooring
Advancements in manufacturing and materials have significantly improved the durability and appearance of laminate flooring:
- Water-Resistant Laminates: Newer laminates include water-resistant or even waterproof options that are ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
- Scratch-Resistant Top Layers: Modern laminates often feature highly scratch-resistant top layers, which are essential for homes with pets or children.
Conclusion
With proper care and maintenance, high-quality laminate flooring can last between 15 to 25 years. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your laminate flooring remains beautiful and functional for as long as possible.
Easipay Carpets can help you get brand new flooring without the high up-front cost – by simply letting you spread the cost of the flooring over time instead. There’s no interest on our plans so you aren’t spending a penny more than you would buying it outright and we include underlay, door trims, carpet grippers and laminate beading for free. Prices start from just £10 per week!
It starts with a free home appointment and quote, to get booked in at a time that suits you, tap the “Get Started” button below and fill out the contact form!
Still Got Questions? Here's 10 FAQs!
Laminate flooring should be replaced when it shows signs of significant wear, damage, or fading, which typically occurs after 15 to 25 years, depending on the factors mentioned above.
Unlike hardwood, laminate flooring cannot be refinished. Once the top layer has been worn down or damaged, replacement is the only option.
Yes, laminate flooring is suitable for homes with pets, especially varieties designed with scratch-resistant surfaces.
Use a laminate-specific cleaner and a soft cloth to gently dab and clean stains. Avoid abrasive scrubbers and harsh chemicals.
Ensure proper installation with the right expansion gaps and maintain stable indoor humidity levels to prevent lifting.
High-pressure laminate (HPL) is generally more durable than direct-pressure laminate (DPL) due to its tougher construction.
Remove excess water immediately and use fans or dehumidifiers to dry the area quickly. If swelling occurs, some planks may need to be replaced.
Yes, heavy furniture can indent or scratch laminate flooring. Use protective pads and avoid dragging furniture across the floor.
Opt for thicker laminate (12 mm or more) with a higher AC rating (AC3 or higher), which indicates better resistance to wear and tear.
Sunlight can affect different types of laminate differently, depending on the quality of UV protection in the floor’s top layer. Higher-quality laminates with UV inhibitors are less susceptible to fading.
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About The Author
Matt
Matt is a master at gathering relevant information and rolling it into a ball of digestibility. Fuelled by caffeine and metal bands, you'll usually find him in the office either writing blog posts with verification from our most experienced flooring fitters, creating new ad designs, working on our social media and website or finding ways to improve our customer's whole experience with us. Matt is part of the background force that keeps the Pay Weekly side of Easipay Carpets growing.