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Wednesday, April 26, 2025
Does Laminate Flooring Scratch Easily, And How Can It Be Prevented In Albany, Ny?
Laminate wood flooring is a popular choice for homeowners looking for the beauty of hardwood without the high cost. It’s durable, stylish, and easy to maintain—but does it scratch easily? While laminate flooring is designed to resist scratches better than hardwood, it isn’t wholly scratch-proof. The key is knowing what causes scratches and how to prevent them.
At Discount Flooring in Albany, NY, we help homeowners in East Greenbush, Saratoga, Schenectady, Greene County, Berkshire County, Rensselaer County, and Troy choose the best laminate flooring options for their homes.
How Scratch-Resistant Is Laminate Flooring?
Laminate flooring has a protective wear layer that makes it more resistant to scratches than traditional hardwood. However, it’s still susceptible to damage from:
- Heavy furniture: Dragging furniture across the floor can leave permanent marks.
- Pet claws: Long nails can scratch and wear down the surface over time.
- Dirt and debris: Small particles act like sandpaper when walked on.
- High heels and sharp objects can leave dents or scratches on the floor’s surface.
How to Prevent Scratches on Laminate Floors
1. Use Furniture Pads
Attaching felt or rubber pads to the bottom of chairs, tables, and other furniture prevents direct contact with the floor.
2. Place Area Rugs in High-Traffic Zones
Rugs and runners help protect laminate flooring in entryways, hallways, and other busy areas.
3. Keep Pet Nails Trimmed
Regularly trimming your pet’s nails reduces the risk of scratches and keeps your floors looking their best.
4. Sweep and Mop Regularly
Dust and dirt can be abrasive. A soft-bristled broom or microfiber mop prevents buildup and protects the floor’s surface.
5. Choose Scratch-Resistant Laminate
Some laminate floors have enhanced wear layers for better protection against scratches. Look for AC (Abrasion Class) ratings—AC3 or higher is recommended for residential use.
6. Use Protective Mats Under Chairs and Tables
Office chairs with wheels and dining tables that are frequently moved can wear down laminate over time. Using plastic or rubber mats helps reduce friction.
7. Avoid Dragging Heavy Objects
When moving furniture, always lift instead of dragging to prevent deep scratches.
Can Scratches Be Repaired?
While laminate flooring can’t be refinished like hardwood, minor scratches can be fixed using:
- Laminate floor repair kits include wax fillers or color-matching pens to disguise minor marks.
- Scratch concealers: Specialized sealants help mask minor imperfections.
- Replacing damaged planks: For deep scratches, replacing individual planks may be the best solution.
Keep Your Laminate Floors Looking Like New
If you're considering laminate flooring installation or need advice on maintaining your current floors, Discount Flooring in Albany, NY, has you covered. We proudly serve East Greenbush, Saratoga, Schenectady, Greene County, Berkshire County, Rensselaer County, and Troy. Visit our showroom or contact us for top-quality laminate floor installation and expert recommendations!