Laminate Flooring and UV Light
Laminate flooring is a popular choice for homeowners due to its affordability, durability, and aesthetic appeal. However, like many aspects of a home, it is not impervious to the elements. One factor that can significantly affect the appearance and longevity of laminate flooring is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Understanding the interaction between laminate flooring and UV light can help you take the necessary steps to protect your floors. Here’s everything you need to know.
The Impact of UV Light on Laminate Flooring
UV light from the sun can cause visible changes in many materials, including fabrics, paint, and flooring. For laminate floors, here are the primary concerns:
1. Fading and Discoloration
Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the colours in laminate flooring to fade or become discoloured. This is particularly noticeable with darker or richer colours, which may seem to wash out or lighten over time.
2. Warping and Buckling
While less common, intense and direct sunlight can lead to warping or buckling of laminate flooring. This occurs because the heat associated with direct sunlight can cause the laminate material to expand unevenly.
How to Protect Laminate Flooring from UV Light
Fortunately, there are several effective ways to mitigate the effects of UV light on your laminate flooring:
1. Use Window Treatments
Installing blinds, curtains, or UV-blocking window films can significantly reduce the amount of UV light that enters your home and reaches your floors. These treatments not only protect your flooring but also help regulate indoor temperatures and protect other furnishings.
2. Apply UV Protective Coatings
Some modern laminate floors come with UV-resistant coatings. If your flooring does not have this feature, you can apply a UV protective finish to the surface. These finishes need to be applied correctly and may require periodic reapplication depending on the product specifications.
3. Rearrange Furniture and Rugs
Regularly changing the placement of rugs and furniture can help ensure that the floor ages uniformly and reduces the risk of noticeable sun patches. This is a practical approach to minimise the visible impact of UV light on areas of the floor that receive more sunlight.
4. Choose Laminate Rated for UV Resistance
When purchasing new laminate flooring, look for options that are specifically rated for high UV resistance. These products are more suited to areas that receive significant sunlight and will show less fading over time.
Conclusion
While laminate flooring is a sturdy and attractive option for many homes, it is not immune to the effects of UV light. By understanding these impacts and taking steps to protect your flooring, you can maintain the vibrant appearance and condition of your laminate floors for years to come.
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!
The rate at which UV light affects laminate flooring can vary based on the intensity of the light and the type of laminate. Some homeowners notice changes within a few months, while others may not see fading for several years.
Generally, darker colours tend to show fading more prominently than lighter colours, as they absorb more light.
Yes, if your existing floors are not already treated with a UV protective coating, you can apply one to the surface. Make sure it is compatible with laminate flooring.
High-pressure laminate typically offers better resistance to UV light and other forms of wear and tear compared to direct-pressure laminate, as it is made with higher quality materials.
Look for coatings that are specifically designed for use on laminate floors and check for any manufacturer recommendations regarding UV protection.
Regular cleaning and maintenance, avoiding harsh chemicals, and keeping the floors free of grit and dirt can help maintain the integrity of the UV protective coating.
Yes, while direct sunlight is more damaging, sunlight through windows can still affect laminate flooring due to UV penetration, though it may do so at a slower rate.
Regular window glass can block some UVB rays but is less effective against UVA rays, which can still cause fading and damage to laminate flooring. For better protection, consider installing windows with special UV-blocking glass or applying a UV-blocking film to existing windows.
The frequency of reapplication can vary based on the product used and the level of sun exposure, but generally, it’s recommended to reapply UV protective coatings every 2-3 years to maintain optimal protection.
Once laminate flooring has faded, it’s difficult to restore its original colour and appearance. The best approach is to replace the faded sections or consider using area rugs or furniture to cover the affected areas. However, applying a fresh protective coating can help prevent further damage.
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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.