When to Repair Your Laminate Wood Flooring

IS IT TIME FOR A LAMINATE FLOORING REPAIR? LEARN THE SIGNS AND FIND OUT.

Laminate wood flooring is one of the most popular flooring options for homeowners. It offers a beautiful aesthetic at a fraction of the price of traditional hardwood, making it a clear winner for residential customers. But even with high-quality laminate flooring offered by Floor Coverings International and others, wear and tear can damage your floor overtime. By being able to spot the signs, you’ll know when it’s time to repair your laminate wood floor.

When to Repair Your Laminate Wood Flooring

Any floor will experience some normal wear and tear over time, but when it comes to laminate wood flooring, it’s helpful to know when it’s in need of repairs. The following situations are when you should look into having your laminate wood flooring repaired:

- Gapping

Gapping refers to when the floor planks begin to separate from each other. This usually happens with extreme changes in temperature. With the right tools, a flooring professional can fix this problem.

- Peaking

This occurs when panels push each other up at the joints, creating an uneven surface or “peak,” at the point of contact. This happens when the panels expand too much and do not have enough space. Trimming the affected boards or the molding surrounding them will remedy this.

- “Soft Floor”

“Soft floor” is a condition that occurs when the inner core of the laminate wood flooring is exposed to moisture, resulting in swelling and ultimately, deterioration. If this happens to your floor, it will be necessary to have the affected panels replaced.

- Scratches

While laminate wood flooring is highly scratch-resistant, it is still possible to scratch the panels. To repair minor scratches, you can use laminate floor repair paste. Most stores that sell retail flooring supplies will carry this product. For more serious damage, you may need to contact a professional to get the necessary repairs.

Three Tips to Prevent Damage to your Laminate Wood Flooring

Of course, the best thing you can do for your floor is prevent the damage before it ever happens. Following these tips after you buy laminate wood flooring will help keep your floor in good condition:

Clean Daily
Dirt and dust can turn into scratches and scuffs if left unaddressed. The best and simplest way to clean your floor on a daily basis is to use a broom or dry mop. You can also use the soft-brush attachment on your vacuum to clean awkward or hard-to-reach places.
Wipe Up Spills
If you have a laminate wood floor, it is crucial to wipe up any liquid spills as soon as they happen. Exposure to moisture can cause warping, gapping or “soft floor” condition, all of which can range from inconvenient to disastrous. Cleaning up spills right away is one of the most effective preventative measures you can take.
Use Rugs
Using rugs or mats on your laminate wood flooring can go a long way in maintaining a good condition. Entrances are especially good places to put rugs or mats to prevent outside dirt from harming your floor. Putting rugs under furniture is also a good idea, since heavy furniture like couches can cause scuffing and scratching when it moves or slides across the floor.

Taking the right steps can prevent substantial damage to your laminate wood flooring, and recognizing the signs can tell you when it’s time to make a repair. Floor Coverings International is a top laminate wood flooring company that can help you find what you need. For more information on flooring care or to schedule a consultation, please call us today!

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