How To Make Laminate Floors Less Slippery
Many homeowners have turned to laminate flooring as a cost-effective alternative to hardwood. However, they can be slippery and lead to accidents. We conducted research to find ways to make these floors less slippery.
The special coating on laminate floors makes them quite slippery, even without waxing or polishing. However, you can make them less slippery by keeping them clean, applying anti-slip sealant, using rugs or carpets, wearing suitable footwear, and using rubber or vinyl door mats. If these methods do not work, you may need to replace the flooring. This article provides detailed information on each method to prevent accidents due to slippery floors and other reasons why laminate floors can be slippery. Keep reading to learn more.
How To Make Laminate Floors Less Slippery
Here are some ways to make laminate floors less slippery.
Keep The Floors Clean
Laminate floors can be naturally slippery, and dirt and grime on the surface can make them even more so, similar to driving on a wet road. To prevent accidents at home, it’s important to sweep and keep the floors free of dust and dirt.
It is important to clean laminate floors once or twice a week using a broom or vacuum with soft bristles and attachments to avoid scratching. For stubborn stains, use a damp mop with a microfiber mop and cleaning solution suitable for laminate floors.
Apply An Anti-Slip Sealant
Some laminate floors are more slippery than others and simply keeping them clean is not enough to reduce the risk of accidents. As such, you can use an anti-slip sealant to keep members of your household safe.
First, clean the laminate floors with a damp rag to eliminate dust and dirt. Then, use a paint roller to apply a thin layer of anti-slip sealant over the floors and let it dry overnight. Before applying it fully, it’s wise to test it out first on a small portion of the laminate floor.
Note that this method replaces the glossy finish of the laminate floors with a satin sheen. So, if you prefer the glossy look of your laminate floors, this method may not be suitable for you.
Get A Rug/Carpet
Rugs and carpets are a great solution to make laminate floors less slippery while maintaining their glossy finish. It’s important to choose ones with a rubber underside to prevent them from sliding around and causing accidents.
Rugs not only help prevent slipping, but they also reduce the impact on your feet with each step, providing added comfort. Additionally, they can add a pop of color to your home, allowing you to showcase your personal style to others.
Wear Ideal Footwear
Walking around barefoot can increase the risk of slipping on your laminate floors or injuring yourself by stepping on something unwanted, such as a small toy or a piece of debris.
Wearing slippers or shoes with rubber soles can provide more traction and reduce the risk of slipping on laminate floors. Additionally, they offer protection from accidentally stepping on small objects.
Use Rubber/Vinyl Door Mats
Using door mats with rubber undersides in entryways can reduce the risk of slipping on laminate floors, especially when carrying items. Doormats also filter dirt and debris, keeping your home clean.
Replace The Flooring
Over time, laminate floors are prone to cracking and scratching, which can lead to minor chipping and splintering that can harm your feet and cause you to trip. Coupled with the inherent slipperiness of laminate floors, this can create a hazardous situation in your home.
What Are The Causes Of Slippery Laminate Floors?
Here are some other causes of slippery laminate floors:
Accumulation Of Dust And Dirt
Dust and dirt on the surface of laminate floors can make them slippery, as they reduce the amount of friction between your feet and the floor. This can make it harder to maintain balance and increase the risk of slips and falls. That’s why it’s important to keep laminate floors clean and free from dust and dirt to reduce the risk of slipping.
It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions for your specific laminate flooring to ensure you’re using the correct cleaning solutions and techniques.
Typically, you should avoid using excessive water when cleaning laminate floors. Instead, use a damp mop or cloth to wipe the surface, and avoid leaving any standing water on the floor. Using a dedicated laminate floor cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water can help remove dirt and grime without damaging the surface.
If you do need to replace a damaged laminate plank, you can follow these general steps:
- Use a circular saw or handsaw to cut out the damaged plank.
- Use a chisel to remove any remaining pieces and clean the subfloor.
- Measure and cut the replacement plank to fit the gap, leaving a 1/4-inch gap on all sides.
- Apply glue to the edges of the replacement plank and insert it into the gap.
- Use a pull bar and tapping block to secure the plank into place and ensure it’s level with the surrounding planks.
- Wipe away any excess glue with a damp cloth and allow it to dry for at least 24 hours before using the area.
Furniture Damage
I would also like to add that when you lift furniture or appliances to move them, make sure to avoid dragging or scraping them across the laminate floor as it can cause scratches and damage. Instead, gently lift and carry them to their new location. Additionally, using soft felt pads underneath the protectors and sliders can provide an extra layer of protection and minimize any potential damage to your laminate floors.
Damage From Pets And Plants
To minimize the risk of slippery floors caused by pets and plants, here are a few tips:
- Keep your pets’ nails trimmed to prevent them from scratching the laminate floors.
- Place mats or trays under your pets’ food and water bowls to catch any spills.
- Clean up any pet messes immediately to avoid staining and damage to the laminate floors.
- Use drip trays or saucers under your plants to catch any excess water or spills.
- Avoid overwatering your plants, and be sure to wipe up any spills or leaks as soon as possible
Exposure To Too Much Sunlight
Direct and prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the protective coating on laminate floors to break down, making them more susceptible to damage and wear. It can also cause the color of the floors to fade or change unevenly, resulting in an unsightly appearance. To prevent this, you can use curtains or blinds to block out the sunlight or place rugs in areas that receive direct sunlight.
To Wrap Up
Regular cleaning of laminate floors with a microfiber mop or a vacuum cleaner can help remove dirt and dust that can make the floor slippery. Using a cleaner specifically designed for laminate floors can also help maintain the surface and prevent it from becoming too slick.
Additionally, applying an anti-slip sealant to your laminate floors can add an extra layer of protection and improve traction. You can find such products in most hardware stores or online retailers. Remember to follow the instructions carefully when applying the sealant to avoid damaging the floor.
