Linoleum or vinyl flooring, as it is called today, has seen some major improvements over the years and has become one of the easiest types of flooring to maintain. Vinyl flooring is typically used in rooms that typically require additional maintenance, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways. Occasional spills are bound to happen in these rooms, from ketchup and hairspray to sand and mud being dropped or brought in, proper daily maintenance will need to be done to keep your vinyl floors looking great.
Vinyl flooring – Manufacturers usually have proprietary or recommended cleaning products for their vinyl flooring. Once you purchase your floor, be sure to read their recommendations, as some cleaners will damage the vinyl’s protective layer and/or dull the natural shine of the floor. General maintenance is a must – sweeping, dust mopping or vacuuming should be a daily routine.
Many manufacturers will have a two or three part system to keep vinyl flooring looking new. It usually consists of a cleaner, a stripper, and a refinish product, and each has recommended wear times, be sure to follow their recommendations if you want to maintain the newly established look.
Normally a cleaner will be used weekly, but can be used more often if needed. It is usually diluted and then used to mop the floor, making sure to repeatedly rinse the mop, it is a good idea on especially dirty floors.
Strippers are commonly used once a year, their main purpose is to remove soapy buildup from normal floor cleaning and mopping that builds up over time and gives your floor a dull appearance.
The finishing product is used to help your floors shine. Refinishing shouldn’t be done too often, so be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations or you’ll not only mar the finish, but void your warranty.
Without the proper precautions, vinyl flooring can be damaged by moving furniture and appliances, so be careful when doing so. You would be much better off in cost to get felt furniture protectors used in your rooms with vinyl flooring, these can be purchased at any hardware or flooring store. Chairs and other furniture on wheels should not be used on a vinyl floor as they will eventually damage your floor over time.
If your floor is damaged by a minor cut or tear, it’s best to have it repaired right away to protect it from any further damage that may occur. Using a small amount of the manufacturer’s recommended seam sealer will seal these cuts and tears and protect your floor from further damage. (Seam sealer is used to join pieces of vinyl)
Vinyl flooring is an affordable and durable type of flooring, as long as you know its limitations. Following these steps will keep your vinyl flooring looking great for years to come, just remember that vinyl flooring has its limits. Use felt floor protectors or at least some type of protector on all your furniture, do regular maintenance, follow the manufacturer’s schedules for your floor type, and enjoy your vinyl flooring for years to come.
