How To Protect Laminate Floors From Sun Damage

How To Protect Laminate Floors From Sun Damage. Laminate floors are a popular choice among homeowners due to their durability, affordability, and ease of upkeep. Unfortunately, like any other flooring material, laminate floors can suffer damage from UV rays over time – leading them to fade, crack or discolor and making your space appear unattractive.

Fortunately, there are several strategies you can take to protect your laminate floors from UV rays. This article will examine effective strategies for shielding your feet from these harsh effects.

Understanding the Causes of Sun Damage to Laminate Floors

Before we discuss how to protect your laminate floors from sun damage, it’s essential to understand why it occurs. Laminate floors are composed of multiple layers: a protective layer, a printed layer, a core layer, and a backing layer.

The protective layer acts like a shield between these materials – it shields the printed layer, which contains high-resolution images of wood, stone, or tile. At the same time, the core consists of fiberboard or high-density lumber, while the backing provides stability and moisture resistance.

Sun damage occurs when UV rays penetrate a protective layer, affecting the printed layer beneath. As a result, this printed layer may fade or discolor, leaving an unsightly appearance. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to the sun causes the core layer to expand or contract, leading to cracks on your laminate flooring or warping.

Tips to Guard Your Laminate Floors Against Sun Damage

Close Blinds and Curtains

One of the simplest ways to protect your laminate floors from sun damage is by closing blinds and curtains during peak sunlight hours. This will block UV rays from directly hitting the feet, decreasing the risk of fading or discoloration. Furthermore, keeping the room cooler can help keep the core layer from expanding or contracting due to temperature changes.

Utilize Window Tinting

Window tinting is an efficient way to block out UV rays and shield your laminate floors from sun damage. Window tinting can reduce up to 99% of UV radiation, offering your feet considerable protection. Furthermore, window tinting reduces glare, enhances privacy, and boosts energy efficiency.

Install UV-Blocking Window Film

UV-blocking window film is another solution to shield your laminate floors from sun damage. This film can be installed on windows to block out harmful UV rays, preventing them from penetrating the room and damaging your floors. Furthermore, installing this film requires no special tools or equipment – making it a hassle-free DIY project with minimal downtime!

Apply Protective Coatings

Adding a protective coating to your laminate floors protects against UV damage. There are various types of protective coatings, such as sealers, waxes, and polishes which help preserve the color and texture of your floors while making them appear new and shiny for longer. However, select a coating specifically designed for laminate floors; other layers may damage or create slippery surfaces.

Placing Rugs or Mats

Utilizing rugs or mats on your laminate floors can protect them from sun damage. Rugs and carpets block out UV rays and provide shade while providing a soft and comfortable surface to walk on that reduces the risk of scratches and dents to your floors. Plus, placing them near entrances helps protect them too!

Furniture Pads

Furniture pads can help prevent scratches and dings on your laminate floors caused by furniture weight and movement. Furthermore, furniture pads protect your feet and the sun by blocking direct UV ray exposure. Therefore, you’ll need to select furniture pads suitable for laminate floors and replace them regularly to ensure optimal protection.

Control Humidity Levels

Humidity levels in a room can affect the expansion and contraction of the laminate floor’s core layer, leading to cracking or warping. Controlling humidity in the room helps avoid these problems while protecting your feet from sun damage. Dehumidifiers help remove excess moisture from the air; humidifiers add water back if it’s too dry.

Avoid Direct Sunlight Exposure

Rearranging furniture, using window coverings, or placing plants in front of windows are effective ways to protect your laminate floors from sun damage. Also, please keep in mind that sunlight angles change throughout the day, so please monitor which areas of your feet are exposed to direct sunlight and take the necessary precautions.

How To Protect Laminate Floors From Sun Damage – Conclusion

Protecting your laminate floors from sun damage is essential to their longevity and aesthetic. Following the tips outlined in this article, such as closing blinds/curtains, using window tinting or UV-blocking film, applying protective coatings, placing rugs/mats/furniture pads, controlling humidity levels, and avoiding direct sunlight exposure, you can safeguard your floors against harmful effects.

These simple yet effective steps will help preserve their beauty and value while ensuring your home remains a comfortable, inviting space for visitors.