Laminate floors can be slippery, which increases the risk of falling. To prevent this, keep the floors clean to avoid slips.
For better traction, apply an anti-slip coating that adds a textured surface. Use rugs and runners with non-slip backing in areas where people walk a lot to improve grip.
Wearing shoes with non-slip soles also helps reduce slipperiness. Regular floor care and these methods can make laminate floors safer.
Clean Your Floors Regularly
Regular cleaning is essential to reduce the slipperiness of laminate floors. Dust and dirt can make floors more slippery and less appealing. Regular sweeping and vacuuming with a soft attachment prevent scratches and preserve the non-slip qualities of the flooring.
For deeper cleaning, damp mopping with a microfiber mop is effective. It removes dirt without leaving moisture that could damage the laminate. Use a cleaner specifically designed for hardwood and laminate floors, such as Weiman Hardwood Floor Cleaner, to avoid leaving slippery residues and to enhance the floor's shine.
Regular cleaning with appropriate tools and products maintains the floor's condition and safety by reducing the risk of slips and falls.
Apply Anti-Slip Coatings
Apply an anti-slip coating to your laminate floors after cleaning them to increase safety by providing more traction. This is important for areas that are often wet or have high foot traffic. Products like Laminate Grip and All-Weather Coating-Clear are made to add grip without changing how your floor looks.
Choose a coating that fits your needs. Laminate Grip is a water-based Polyurethane solution suitable for indoor use, creating a safe surface for children and pets. All-Weather Coating-Clear is designed for outdoor use and includes traction beads for extra slip resistance.
Before fully applying the coating, test it on a small, hidden part of your floor to check for proper adhesion and to make sure it doesn't affect the floor's look. This will confirm the product's effectiveness without altering your floor's appearance.
The objective is to make your floors safer without changing their appearance. Apply the anti-slip coating carefully, following the manufacturer's instructions. For additional guidance, consider consulting floor safety experts on the best products and application methods.
Choose Proper Footwear
Choosing the right shoes is essential for preventing slips on laminate floors. Shoes with rubber or anti-slip soles are recommended for better grip. Split-toed suction cup shoes can also increase traction.
For visitors, slip-resistant overshoes can be used over their shoes for added safety. Avoid shoes with hard plastic soles or heels as they can increase the risk of slipping.
Consider anti-slip booties for pets to keep them safe on slippery floors.
Install Carpet Runners
Homeowners can reduce the slipperiness of laminate floors by installing carpet runners with non-slip backings in areas with a lot of foot traffic. These runners not only improve safety by adding traction but also enhance the room's appearance.
It's important to choose carpet runners with a rubber or latex backing to prevent them from moving, especially in places like hallways and near doorways where the slip risk is higher.
Carpet runners also contribute to a room's decor by adding color and texture. They come in various sizes and styles to match home interiors. Placing them strategically can guide foot traffic and reduce the risk of falls.
For a more comprehensive solution, homeowners can combine carpet runners with anti-slip floor treatments.
Use Textured Tape
Textured tape can improve safety on laminate floors by providing extra grip. It is suitable for both industrial and residential use to prevent slips. The tape increases surface friction and can be placed in areas prone to slipping, like stair edges and doorways. The transparent tape does not alter the floor's appearance and adds anti-slip features.
Installing textured tape is easy and requires few tools. The tape sticks well to clean, dry floors. Clean the laminate before application to ensure the tape adheres properly.
Select Suitable Underlay
Choose an underlay with a plastic underside to maintain grip and protect laminate floors. It should be specific to laminate to ensure proper traction and stability. The underlay cushions the floor, reducing warping and offering a safer surface. It also prevents moisture damage.
Install the underlay flat to avoid unevenness. Use recommended underlays to avoid voiding warranties. The right underlay enhances safety and extends the floor's life.
Regular Floor Maintenance
Regular maintenance of laminate flooring is essential for safety and longevity. To prevent slipperiness, it is important to keep the floor free of dust. Sweeping regularly removes loose dirt that can cause slips. When vacuuming, use a soft brush attachment without a beater bar to avoid scratching the surface.
For deeper cleaning, damp mop with a microfiber mop and a cleaner suitable for laminate floors. Avoid using too much water or inappropriate cleaners, as these can increase slipperiness and cause damage.
For extra slip resistance, consider using an anti-slip spray coating in slippery areas. Test the product on a small hidden section before applying it fully to ensure it does not damage the floor or alter its appearance.
Following these maintenance steps will help maintain the floor's non-slip properties and appearance.
