Frequently Asked Questions
Golden Select™ Care & Maintenance
How can I increase the shine of my floor?
The amount of shine in planks and tiles is a manufactured characteristic that cannot be modified.
How can I remove footprints left by someone walking barefoot?
This is a problem without any specific solution. It is not unique to laminate surfaces, butin fact occurs with all smooth, shiny surfaces. Footprints are caused by oils secreted from the skin, and can therefore be washed off.
Can nail polish remover be used to remove excess glue from the floor?
It is much easier to completely remove the excess glue from a laminate floor during installation. Simply rub with a damp cloth, rinsing frequently in hot water. If some glue remains after this initial cleaning, it may be helpful to use nail polish remover. Nevertheless, scrubbing vigorously with very hot water should yield excellent results.
Is it possible to repair the wear layer?
While it is not possible to repair a worn-out wear layer, minor repairs to the floor's surface can be made. If the wear layer is seriously damaged, the best option is to replace the plank or tile.
How can scratches on a laminate floor be repaired?
Replace the plank or use the manufacturer-specified repair kit.
Can large dogs scratch the surface with their nails?
As a general rule, animal claws do not scratch laminate floors. However, this is not guaranteed. Different animals have different habits, and some animals with access to the floor may have sand or other matter stuck to their claws.
Installation
How much material will be wasted during installation?
The amount of wasted material is approximately equal to 7% of the total surface area of the floor to be covered. To estimate how much material you will need to purchase, measure the surface area of the room, then multiply by 1.07. To determine the number of boxes you will need, divide this figure by the surface covered by each box of flooring.
In which direction should the flooring be installed?
There are two rules for choosing the direction of the flooring. First, the length of the planks should extend toward a light source, such as a window. Second, the planks should be installed along the length of a room. The second rule applies best to long and narrow rooms, whereas the first rule applies best to nearly square rooms. When installing flooring in several rooms, however, the overall effect should also be considered.
What is the margin of error when aligning wood grain strips?
5/64" (2 mm).
Is it necessary to shift the end seams by a minimum of 8 inches (20 cm)?
Yes. This allows the floor to have a more uniform structure when assembled.
Is it necessary to leave a gap of 5/16" (8 mm) around the perimeter of the room?
Yes. This gap allows the floor to expand and retract with changes in relative humidity.
How do I clean up excess glue during an installation?
To completely remove all traces of glue during an installation, first remove the surplus with a card or damp cloth. Next, remove the remainder by rubbing with a damp cloth, rinsing frequently in warm or hot water. To avoid spreading glue over the floor while cleaning, use a parallel motion to move the cloth down the seams and the area surrounding the seams. It is also helpful to rinse the cloth thoroughly and, most importantly, to squeeze all surplus water out of the cloth before using it to clean the floor. Never pour water directly on the floor. Use a damp cloth instead.
How many floor clamps are needed for installing a new floor?
In general, one clamp per plank is sufficient for proper installation. Using this formula, 5 to 6 floor clamps are needed for an average room measuring approximately 20' x 20' (6.1 m x 6.1 m).
What is the maximum humidity level permitted in the core layer?
Professional installers generally recommend 12% as the maximum humidity level for installing a laminate floor.
How should moldings be installed?
See the installation guide for installation of all transitional joints. Moldings can be glued or nailed, but remember that glued moldings can be very difficult to remove.
Why is there an expansive joint in every 33ft. of laminate flooring?
This joint allows the laminate floor to increase or reduce in length, along with the normal variation in relative humidity inside the dwelling.
A floating floor is built with all its component parts attached to each other, but none fixed to the supporting floor.
What is the recommended temperature for installing laminate flooring over a radiant-heating floor?
It is recommended to reduce the temperature control of the room to approximately 60°F (15°C) one week before installing the laminate flooring. The temperature may be returned to normal after installation. However, never set the temperature above 80°F (27°C).
Why is a moisture barrier used on concrete?
Concrete floors are capable of storing a large quantity of water in the form of humidity. In older buildings, concrete is usually found in the basement. Because the soil adjacent to the concrete can bring humidity into the floor, it is crucial to avoid all direct contact between the laminate flooring and the concrete floor. In new buildings, the concrete floor may still be slightly humid when the flooring is installed. It is therefore generally recommended to install a moisture barrier over all concrete surfaces.
Product specifics
What is the wear layer made of?
The wear layer is composed of an abrasion-resistant agent: aluminum oxide.
