LAMINATE Maintenance

General information 

Your new laminate floor represents a significant investment. With proper care and routine maintenance, the appearance and performance of your Shaw laminate flooring can be maintained for years to come. 

An effective maintenance program consists of four key areas: 

• Post-Construction Maintenance: Proper removal of construction dust, drywall residue and other installation-related contaminants to ensure the floor is clean and free of surface film. 

• Preventative Maintenance: Protecting the floor from damage through the use of walk-off mats, furniture protectors, proper humidity control, and other preventive measures that help reduce wear and extend the life of the floor. 

• Routine Maintenance: Regular removal of dirt, dust, and debris, along with periodic cleaning using approved neutral pH cleaners to maintain the floor's appearance and performance. 

• Spot and Spill Removal: Prompt attention to spills, stains, and localized soiling to help prevent staining, residue buildup, or potential surface damage. 

Post Construction Maintenance 

• Remove Loose Soil and Dust: Dust mop the floor using a clean microfiber dust mop pad or vacuum designed for hard-surface flooring to remove dust, dirt, and other loose particulates. 

• Clean with a Neutral pH Cleaner: Lightly spray a neutral pH cleaner, such as Shaw TOTALCARE® Hard Surface Cleaner or neutral pH laminate floor cleaners are recommended, onto a manageable section of the floor. Clean the area using a microfiber wet mop pad, working in small sections to prevent the cleaner from drying on the surface. Replace the mop pad as it becomes soiled to avoid redistributing dirt and residue. 

• Rinse the Surface: After cleaning, lightly mist clean water onto a flat microfiber wet mop pad and rinse the cleaned area. The mop pad should be damp only and should not drip water. Replace pads as necessary to maintain cleaning effectiveness. 

• Addressing Construction Dust Residue: Drywall dust, construction dust, and other fine particulates may leave a cloudy residue if cleaned with water alone. If a film or haze develops after drying, follow the procedure below to restore the floor's appearance. 

Removal of Construction Residue or Cloudy Film 

• Remove Surface Dust and Debris: Thoroughly dust mop the floor using a clean microfiber dust mop pad to remove construction dust, drywall residue, and tracked-in soil. Replace the pad as it becomes dirty. 

• Clean with Neutral pH Cleaner: Apply a neutral pH cleaner, such as Shaw TOTALCARE® Hard Surface Cleaner, to a manageable area of the floor and clean using a microfiber mop. Work in small sections. For embossed or textured flooring surfaces, a cylindrical brush scrubber, such as the Clarke® MA10 12E Scrubber, may be used with a neutral pH cleaner to help remove stubborn residue and construction film. 

• Rinse and Remove Remaining Residue: Lightly mist clean water onto a microfiber wet mop pad until damp, ensuring the pad is not dripping. Mop the floor to remove any remaining cleaner residue or film. Replace wet mop pads as they become dirty. 

• Repeat if Necessary: Repeat Steps 2 and 3 until all visible residue, haze, or cloudy film has been removed, and the floor is restored to a clean appearance. 

Preventative Maintenance 

• Sunlight and Environmental Conditions: Protect the flooring from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which may cause fading or discoloration over time. Damage resulting from ultraviolet (UV) exposure is not covered under the warranty. Maintain indoor relative humidity levels between 35% and 65% RH to support optimal floor performance. 

• Moving Heavy Objects: Protect the floor when moving appliances, furniture, or other heavy objects to prevent scratches, gouges, or surface damage. The use of Ram Board®, heavy cardboard, plywood panels, or equivalent protective materials is recommended when relocating heavy items across the floor. 

• Furniture Protection: Install appropriate, non-staining floor protectors under furniture legs, tables, chairs, and other heavy furnishings. As a general guideline, the heavier the item, the larger the floor protector should be to help distribute weight and reduce the potential for indentation or surface damage. 

• Walk-Off Mats and Entry Protection: Place walk-off mats at all exterior entrances to reduce the amount of dirt, grit, and moisture tracked onto the floor. Properly maintained mats help minimize scratches, wear, and surface damage. When using mats directly on laminate flooring, select products designed for hard-surface floors. Avoid mats that trap moisture beneath the surface, as prolonged moisture exposure may lead to discoloration. Mats with latex or rubber backings should not be used. 

• Area Rugs and Rug Pads: When using area rugs over hard-surface flooring, a Duragon or PVC rug pad is recommended to help protect the floor while providing stability and cushioning. Ensure rug pads are clean, dry, and non-staining to prevent potential discoloration or floor damage. 

Routine Maintenance 

• Daily Cleaning: Daily removal of dirt, dust, and abrasive particles is essential to protect the floor's surface from wear. Regular sweeping, dust mopping, or vacuuming is recommended to remove soil and debris that can cause scratches and premature dulling. Do not use vacuums equipped with rotating beater bars or brush rolls on hard surface flooring. 

• Routine Maintenance Cleaning: Periodic cleaning is necessary to maintain the floor's appearance. Always sweep, vacuum, or dust mop prior to wet cleaning. Shaw TOTALCARE® Hard Surface Cleaner or neutral pH laminate floor cleaners are recommended. 

• Moisture Control: Never wet mop the floor with excessive water or allow cleaning solution to remain on the surface. Standing moisture may cause permanent damage to the flooring. Use only the amount of cleaner necessary to effectively clean the surface. 

• Recommended Mopping Methods: Use a flat microfiber mop pad when cleaning with a neutral pH cleaner such as Shaw TOTALCARE® Hard Surface Cleaner or neutral pH laminate floor cleaners are recommended.  

• Drying Procedures: Following cleaning, accelerate drying as needed by using fans, air movers, or increased air circulation. 

• Products to Avoid: Do not use abrasive cleaners or products that leave a residue on the floor's surface. Avoid oil soaps, liquid or paste waxes, citrus oil-based cleaners, tung oil products, silicone-containing products, ammoniated cleaners, or combination cleaner/polish products. Use of these products may cause surface damage, discoloration, residue buildup, or performance issues that are not covered under the flooring warranty. 

Spot And Spill Removal 

• Prompt Spill Response: Remove liquid spills immediately by blotting with clean white paper towels or a soft, absorbent cloth. Do not rub the affected area, as this may spread the spill or damage the surface. 

• Removal of Dried Residues: Dried spots or residue should be cleaned using Shaw TOTALCARE® Hard Surface Cleaner and gentle agitation with a clean, non-abrasive cloth or towel. After cleaning, thoroughly blot the area dry. 

• Products to Avoid: Do not use detergents, abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or other harsh cleaning products. These materials can leave a dulling residue, damage the surface finish, and negatively affect the floor's appearance.