Preventing And Repairing Scratches In Laminate Flooring
Last Updated: 11/04/2024
Laminate flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners due to its affordability and versatility. However, like any flooring material, it’s not completely immune to scratches and wear and tear. The good news is that preventing and repairing scratches in laminate floors can be done effectively with some simple DIY methods and cost-effective preventative measures. In this in-depth guide, we will explore these strategies to help you keep your laminate floors looking as good as new.
Part 1: Preventing Scratches in Laminate
Prevention before the scratches can take place will always be your best bet. There’s various ways you can help prevent scratches in laminate flooring – let’s take a look at some!
1. Use Area Rugs and Mats
One of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to prevent scratches on your laminate floors is by strategically placing area rugs and mats in high-traffic areas. These rugs act as a protective barrier, reducing the direct contact between your furniture and the laminate surface. Ensure that the rugs have a non-slip backing to prevent accidents.
2. Invest in Furniture Pads
Furniture legs and feet can be culprits behind many floor scratches. Invest in felt or rubber furniture pads, which are inexpensive and easy to attach. Place these pads under the legs of chairs, tables, and other heavy furniture pieces to distribute the weight evenly and minimize the risk of scratches.
3. Keep Your Pet’s Nails Trimmed
If you have pets, their nails can leave unsightly scratches on your laminate floors. Regularly trim your pet’s nails to prevent them from causing damage when they run or play indoors. This not only protects your floors but also ensures the safety and comfort of your furry friends.
4. Remove Shoes at the Door
Implement a no-shoes policy in your home to prevent outdoor debris and grit from being tracked onto your laminate floors. Provide a designated area for shoes or provide slippers for guests. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of scratches.
Part 2: DIY Repairs for Scratches In Laminate Flooring
1. Assess the Damage
Before attempting any DIY repair, assess the extent of the scratch. Laminate flooring typically has a protective wear layer that you don’t want to damage further. If the scratch is shallow and not too wide, it’s a good candidate for DIY repair.
2. Use a Laminate Repair Kit
Laminate floor repair kits are readily available and come with everything you need to fix minor scratches. These kits typically include a putty-like filler and a colour-matching marker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to fill the scratch with the putty and then use the marker to blend the colour.
3. Toothpaste Trick
For very shallow scratches, you can try a DIY hack using white toothpaste. Simply apply a small amount of toothpaste to the scratch, rub it gently with a soft cloth, and wipe away any excess. This method can help mask minor scratches and make them less noticeable.
4. Baking Soda and Water Paste
For slightly deeper scratches, create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the scratch, rubbing it gently with a soft cloth. Rinse thoroughly and dry. This method can help minimize the appearance of scratches and restore the shine to your laminate floors.
Conclusion
Preventing and repairing scratches on your laminate floors doesn’t have to be a daunting task or an expensive endeavour. By implementing cost-effective preventative measures such as rugs, furniture pads, and regular pet nail maintenance, you can significantly reduce the risk of scratches. For minor scratches, DIY methods like laminate repair kits, toothpaste, and baking soda can help you restore your floors to their former glory without breaking the bank. With these strategies at your disposal, you can enjoy the beauty and durability of your laminate floors for years to come, with peace of mind knowing that scratches are easily preventable and repairable.
If you’re on the hunt for new flooring and want to invest in something more long term for a great price, we’re here to help by spreading the costs of your flooring over time, from as little as £10 per week! Our Pay Weekly Flooring Plans are completely interest free and we even throw in free underlay with carpet or laminate flooring! Get in touch today by filling out the form below for your free, no obligations quote and to see our samples!
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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.
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