Don't Destroy Your Laminate and Hardwood Floors by Steam Cleaning!

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Believe it or not, steam cleaning your flooring remains a popular method for cleaning hard surface flooring. Unfortunately, many people have not really taken the time to research the effect that it will have on their hardwood or laminate flooring. Don't fall for the infomercials! We have all the information you need to know right here.

Steam Cleaning a Laminate Floor

Most flooring companies strongly oppose steam cleaning laminate flooring, and with good reason. Although laminate flooring is capable of handling a bit more moisture than hardwood surface flooring, you can't simply inject moisture directly into it and expect it to be peachy keen!

Upon examining the installation process, we can see that adhesives are typically used in cases where the laminate flooring features a joint locking mechanism. Unfortunately, adhesives never really hold up well to moisture, so steam will do everything it can to break your flooring apart in this case.

However, even if your particular laminate flooring did not require adhesive during installation, it is still possible to damage the joints of your laminate. In many instances, after repeated steaming, the excessive moisture will actually cause the edges of the planks to peak and swell. Even though you may have tried it and the steaming seems to be doing a successful job of maintaining your laminate flooring, it will inevitably damage your flooring.

Steam Cleaning Your Hardwood Flooring

If you have researched how to maintain your hardwood flooring, you have likely read that any kind of moisture is detrimental. When steam cleaning your hardwood flooring, you are clearly in direct violation of this hardwood maintenance code.

Moisture is detrimental to your hardwood flooring because it will absorb it. This happens more so when steaming than when letting water stand on it! After absorbing excessive moisture, your boards will swell, buckle, and discolor. Eventually, it will break down the finish, and you're in for a heap of trouble and a substantial repair bill.

Even if you have engineered hardwood, it will make no difference to the damage that your flooring will endure.

The Moral of the Story...

Don't buy into cleaning fads without getting the facts from the manufacturer of what you are cleaning. Usually their directions are the best directions... They did make it after all!

Shaw Residential Carpet FAQs

What makes Shaw residential carpet a good choice for my home?

Shaw is widely regarded as a high-quality carpet manufacturer. Their residential carpets offer a broad selection of styles, textures, and colors, from cozy plush carpets to durable loop and twist styles, which makes it easier to match the carpet to your home’s needs and decor. Additionally, many Shaw carpets include features such as stain-resistance, wear resistance, and pet- or family-friendly options, which make them suitable for everyday living spaces.

How do I maintain and clean Shaw carpet to keep it looking good?

Regular maintenance, like vacuuming and keeping dirt out with entry mats, helps prevent soil and grit from embedding in carpet fibers, which prolongs life and appearance. For spills and stains, act quickly and follow proper stain-removal guidelines. Many Shaw products are engineered to resist stains, but timely care will help maintain that benefit over time. Always review the specific care instructions included in your warranty, as different carpet collections may have slightly different care requirements.

Are there carpet styles that are better for households with pets or children?

Yes. If you have pets, kids, or high foot traffic, choose carpets with stain-resistant fibers, tightly woven construction, and darker or multicolor patterns that are better at hiding wear, dirt, or stains. Certain Shaw collections are particularly well-suited for these conditions. You may want to ask for our recommendations based on your household lifestyle (e.g. pets, kids, frequent guests, etc.).

How long should I expect my carpet to last? When should I consider replacing it?

With proper installation, good padding, and routine maintenance, high-quality residential carpet from Shaw can last many years, often a decade or more depending on use, before deterioration signs of use really begin to show. However, heavy daily traffic, pets, frequent spills, or neglecting cleaning may cause wear, matting, or color fading sooner. It’s wise to inspect carpets periodically: once you notice thinning, persistent stains, or uneven wear, it may be time to replace or re-carpet.

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