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Cleaning & Care

Essential tips for maintaining your floors with our concise guide. Learn the best cleaning practices and care recommendations for all types of flooring, ensuring their beauty and durability for years to come.

SPC

Keep your SPC flooring looking new with our quick care tips. Learn the best practices for cleaning and maintaining this durable flooring option to ensure lasting beauty and functionality.

When properly installed and cared for, your Legends Collection SPC flooring will keep its great look for years to come. One of the most important things in keeping your flooring in top condition is to allow for the right room climate by maintaining a stable environment in your home. A room temperature of 60° to 80°F and a humidity range of 30% to 50% is recommended year-round. The use of a humidifier or de-humidifier may be required. Immediately after installation, we recommend a first cleaning to remove dirt and debris caused by the installation process. Dry vacuum to remove dust and debris, then damp mop with plain water or an appropriate vinyl floor cleaner –follow instructions in Preventative Maintenance.

Sweep and Vacuum Regularly

Dust, dirt, and grit can be your floor’s worst enemy and cause them to scratch prematurely. The faster you remove it, the less wear and tear to your floor. Daily sweeping or vacuuming is recommended to help keep them scratch-free. If the vacuum has a beater bar (rotating bristle brush), it should be turned off.



Clean Your Floors Weekly

After sweeping or vacuuming, we recommend weekly or twice weekly washing. Some floors may require more frequent washing, depending on the amount of foot traffic, i.e. commercial locations. Use a microfiber or spongeheaded applicator and damp mop (NEVER wet) with plain water.

Rinse applicator often in a separate container of clean water. A dirty applicator can spread dirt to other areas. Squeeze out surplus water from applicator and ensure that the residual water evaporates from the floor within 60 seconds. If it takes longer, there is too much moisture on the applicator. Use a dry mop or cloth to remove any remaining water, then allow to dry completely. If floor is extremely soiled, a cleaning agent may be necessary.

Use a PH neutral cleaner specifically made for cleaning vinyl flooring that leaves no hazy residue. Do not use abrasive cleaners, polishes, waxes, or ammonia-based cleaners.

Before using, test any new cleaning agent on a small, inconspicuous area of the floor (i.e. closet) or a spare plank.

CAUTION: Do not use a steam mop or hot water when cleaning. High heat can dull the finish and damage the floor.

Although Legends Collection flooring has an extremely durable and hard wearing top coat, staining and discoloration can still occur from accidental spills of acidic liquids or other harsh substances. Should this happen, attempt to clean the area with a damp mop as soon as possible. For tougher spots, try putting a few drops of dish washing liquid or hair shampoo in a bucket of warm water and clean the area with a damp mop or clean cloth. Rinse area with clean water.


Food stains, including mustard, ketchup, tomato sauce, etc. can often be removed by making a paste of baking soda and water. Gently rub the stain with the paste until it is clean. Rinse area with clean water and then allow to dry.


Isotropy rubbing alcohol or mineral spirits can be helpful in removing more stubborn stains caused by paint, marker pens, crayons, lipstick, hair dyes, etc. Apply sparingly onto a clean cloth and rub gently onto the area. Do NOT pour liquid directly onto the floor. When finished, clean area with the appropriate floor cleaner to remove residue.

*** As with any new cleaning product, before using, test product on *** a spare plank or inconspicuous area of the floor (i.e. closet).


Preventing and Treating Scratches and Scuffs
Legends Collection flooring is scratch resistant, but not scratch or damage proof. Here are some tips to prevent and treat scratches and scuffs, helping to keep your floor looking like new.


FLOOR PROTECTORS: Remove any metal or hard plastic caps from the bottom of your existing furniture legs and replace with non-abrasive felt floor protectors (i.e. Flexi-Felt®). Clean protectors periodically to remove any dirt or grit that may become embedded. Heavy furniture pieces should be equipped with large, non-staining rests/floor protectors. Never slide or roll heavy furniture or appliances across the floor. When moving heavy items, use a furniture dolly or slide a 1/8” Masonite sheet under the item to prevent floor damage.


WALK-OFF MATS: Place non-staining walk-off mats at doors leading in from outside areas to reduce tracked in dirt and grit. Choose mats with a non-rubber/breathable backing.


AREA RUGS: Only area rugs with a natural backing (i.e. natural felt) are recommended. Avoid rugs with a rubber or abrasive backing as they can damage or discolor the floor.


DOG AND ANIMAL CARE: Keep your pet’s nails clipped. Dogs and other animals running through the house can scratch any finish. Recurring pet urine not cleaned up within a short amount of time is considered abuse.



REMOVING SCUFF MARKS: Stubborn scuffs can often be removed by use of a tennis ball or pencil eraser. Gently rub in long direction of plank.


SCRATCH REPAIR: Should your floor develop some surface scratches, depending on the extent of the scratches, a plank replacement procedure is always an option. However, there are several scratch repair kits available on the market that many homeowners have found especially helpful in treating surface scratches. Although we do not officially endorse any product/s, “ScratchFix by Dr. Schultz®” and “ScratchAway by Cal-Flor” are two popular products designed to treat scratches.

DOS

  •  
    •  Sweep, dust mop, or vacuum the floor regularly. Use a vacuum designed for hard surfaces. If vacuum has a beater bar (rotating bristle brush) it should be disengaged before use.

 

    •  Immediately wipe up liquid spills with cloth or paper towels.

 

    • Maintain with the appropriate floor cleaner.
    • Use felt protectors or furniture coasters under heavy furniture.

 

    • Close curtains or blinds to limit direct sun exposure.

 

    • Maintain room temperature (60° to 80°F) year-round.

 

    •  Maintain relative humidity in room/building between 30% to 50% year-round.

 

    • Caster wheeled chairs should have wide casters.

 

    • A protective mat should be placed under office chairs.

 

    • In areas with icy or snowy winters, extra protection against salt & grit may be needed.

 

    • Place mats and throw rugs at doorways, exteriors and interiors to help prevent the tracking of grit, dirt and sand.

 

    • Remember that cleats, sport shoes and high heels can dent any floor surface.

 

    • Place an area rug in front of the kitchen sink to catch water

 


DON’TS

    • Use abrasive cleaners

 

    • Drag sharp wooden legs or metal furniture legs as these can scratch/dent your flooring.

 

    • Expose to direct sunlight for extended periods of time as it may discolor and damage your floor.

 

    • Use steam cleaners. They are not recommended on this products.

 

    • Place porous flower pots or vases directly on the floor.

 

    • Use steel wool or other scourers.

 

  • Slide or roll heavy furniture or appliances across the floor without protecting it with 1/8” Masonite sheet or using a furniture dolly under the item

LPV (Glue Down)

Maintain the elegance of your glue down LVP flooring with our straightforward care recommendations.

When properly installed and cared for, your National Parks Collection LVP flooring will keep its great look for years to come. One of the most important things in keeping your flooring in top condition is to allow for the right room climate by maintaining a stable environment in your home. A room temperature of 65°F to 85°F and a humidity range of 30% to 55% is recommended year-around. The use of a humidifier or de-humidifier may be required. Immediately after installation, we recommend a first cleaning to remove dirt and debris caused by the installation process. Dry vacuum to remove dust and debris, then damp mop with plain water or a PH neutral floor cleaner–follow instructions in Preventative Maintenance.
Sweep and Vacuum Regularly
Dust, dirt, and grit can be your floor’s worst enemy and cause them to scratch prematurely. The faster you remove it, the less wear and tear to your floor. Daily sweeping or vacuuming is recommended to help keep them scratch-free. If the vacuum has a beater bar (rotating bristle brush), it should be turned off.

Clean Your Floors Weekly
After sweeping or vacuuming, we recommend weekly or twice weekly washing. Some floors may require more frequent washing, depending on the amount of foot traffic, i.e. commercial locations. Use a microfiber or spongeheaded applicator and damp mop (NEVER wet) with plain water. Rinse applicator often in a separate container of clean water. A dirty applicator can spread dirt to other areas. Squeeze out surplus water from applicator and ensure that the residual water evaporates from the floor within 60 seconds. If it takes longer, there is too much moisture on the applicator. Use a dry mop or cloth to remove any remaining water, then allow to dry completely. If floor is extremely soiled, a cleaning agent may be necessary. Use a PH neutral cleaner specifically made for cleaning vinyl flooring that leaves no hazy residue. Do not use abrasive cleaners, polishes, waxes, or ammonia-based cleaners. Before using, test any new cleaning agent on a small, inconspicuous area of the floor (i.e. closet) or a spare plank. CAUTION: Do not use a steam mop or hot water when cleaning. High heat can dull the finish and damage the floor.
Although National Parks Collection LVP flooring has an extremely durable and hard wearing top coat, staining and discoloration can still occur from accidental spills of acidic liquids or other harsh substances. Should this happen, attempt to clean the area with a damp mop as soon as possible. For tougher spots, try putting a few drops of dish washing liquid or hair shampoo in a bucket of warm water and clean the area with a damp mop or clean cloth. Rinse area with clean water.

Food stains, including mustard, ketchup, tomato sauce, etc. can often be removed by making a paste of baking soda and water. Gently rub the stain with the paste until it is clean. Rinse area with clean water and then allow to dry.

Isotropy rubbing alcohol or mineral spirits can be helpful in removing more stubborn stains caused by paint, marker pens, crayons, lipstick, hair dyes, etc. Apply sparingly onto a clean cloth and rub gently onto the area. Do NOT pour liquid directly onto the floor. When finished, clean area with the appropriate floor cleaner to remove residue.

*** As with any new cleaning product, before using, test product on ***
a spare plank or inconspicuous area of the floor (i.e. closet).

Preventing and Treating Scratches and Scuffs National Parks Collection LVP flooring is scratch resistant, but not scratch or damage proof. Here are some tips to prevent and treat scratches and scuffs, helping to keep your floor looking like new.

FLOOR PROTECTORS: Remove any metal or hard plastic caps from the bottom of your existing furniture legs and replace with non-abrasive felt floor protectors (i.e. Flexi-Felt®). Clean protectors periodically to remove any dirt or grit that may become embedded. Heavy furniture pieces should be equipped with large, non-staining rests/floor protectors. Never slide or roll heavy furniture or appliances across the floor. When moving heavy items, use a furniture dolly or slide a 1/8” Masonite sheet under the item to prevent floor damage.

WALK-OFF MATS: Place non-staining walk-off mats at doors leading in from outside areas to reduce tracked in dirt and grit. Choose mats with a non-rubber/breathable backing.

AREA RUGS: Only area rugs with a natural backing (i.e. natural felt) are recommended. Avoid rugs with a rubber or abrasive backing as they can damage or discolor the floor.

DOG AND ANIMAL CARE: Keep your pet’s nails clipped. Dogs and other animals running through the house can scratch any finish.

REMOVING SCUFF MARKS: Stubborn scuffs can often be removed by use of a tennis ball or pencil eraser. Gently rub in long direction of plank.

SCRATCH REPAIR: Should your floor develop some surface scratches, depending on the extent of the scratches, a plank replacement procedure is always an option. However, there are several scratch repair kits available on the market that many homeowners have found especially helpful in treating surface scratches. Although we do not officially endorse any product/s, “ScratchFix by Dr. Schultz®” and “ScratchAway by Cal-Flor” are two popular products designed to treat scratches.
DOS
  • Sweep, dust mop, or vacuum the floor regularly. Use a vacuum designed for hard surfaces. If vacuum has a beater bar (rotating bristle brush) it should be disengaged before use.

  • Immediately wipe up liquid spills with cloth or paper towels.

  • Maintain with the appropriate floor cleaner.

  • Use felt protectors or furniture coasters under heavy furniture.

  • Close curtains or blinds to limit direct sun exposure.

  • Maintain room temperature (65° to 85°F) year-round.

  • Maintain relative humidity in room/building between 30% to 55% year-round.

  • Caster wheeled chairs should have wide casters.

  • A protective mat should be placed under office chairs.

  • In areas with icy or snowy winters, extra protection against salt & grit may be needed.

  • Place mats and throw rugs at doorways, exteriors and interiors to help prevent the tracking of grit, dirt and sand.

  • Remember that cleats, sport shoes and high heels can dent any floor surface.

  • Place an area rug in front of the kitchen sink to catch water

DON’TS
  • Use abrasive cleaners

  • Drag sharp wooden legs or metal furniture legs as these can scratch/dent your flooring.

  • Expose to direct sunlight for extended periods of time as it may discolor and damage your floor.

  • Use steam cleaners. They are not recommended on this products.

  • Place porous flower pots or vases directly on the floor.

  • Use steel wool or other scourers.

  • Slide or roll heavy furniture or appliances across the floor without protecting it with 1/8”

  • Masonite sheet or using a furniture dolly under the item.

Hardwood

Preserve the natural beauty of your Hardwood floors with our essential care tips.

Hardwood floors are a lifetime investment and you have spent a considerable amount of money to beautify and add value to your home.

Most important in keeping your investment at peak condition (healthy) is to allow for the right room climate by maintaining a stable environment in the home. To keep your investment healthy, a room temperature of 60° to 80° F and a humidity range of 30-50% are recommended year round. (The use of a humidifier or de-humidifier may be required.)
Today’s hardwood floors are quick & easy to maintain, and with a few low cost cleaning tools and a little preventative maintenance can look beautiful for years to come. In addition to maintaining a stable environment, your hardwood floor should be cleaned regularly. Simply sweep, dust mop or vacuum to remove dirt & grit. When necessary clean your floor with a hardwood floor cleaning product.

Carefully follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. Avoid using a wet mop as over time this can damage the finish. Remember: water & wood do not mix.

All purpose cleaners are not recommended as they can dull your floor’s finish or leave a hazy residue.

LAWSON recommends Bona® cleaning products. However, it is important to use the appropriate Bona cleaning product. For NON-OILED, urethane/lacquer finished wood use Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner.
DOS
  • Sweep, dust mop, or vacuum the floor regularly. Use a vacuum designed for hard surfaces. If vacuum has a beater bar (rotating bristle brush) it should be disengaged before use.

  • Immediately wipe up liquid spills with cloth or paper towels.

  • Maintain with the appropriate floor cleaner.

  • Use felt protectors or furniture coasters under heavy furniture.

  • Close curtains or blinds to limit direct sun exposure.

  • Maintain room temperature (60°–80° F) year round.

  • Maintain relative humidity in room/building between 30-50% year round.

  • Caster wheeled chairs should have wide casters.

  • A protective mat should be placed under office chairs.

  • In areas with icy or snowy winters, extra protection against salt & grit may be needed.

  • Place mats and throw rugs at doorways, exteriors and interiors to help prevent the tracking of grit, dirt and sand.

  • Remember that cleats, sport shoes and high heels can dent any floor surface.

  • Place an area rug in front of the kitchen sink to catch water

DON’TS
  • Use oil based soaps.

  • Use paste wax based products

  • Drag sharp wooden legs or metal furniture legs as it can scratch/dent hardwood floors.

  • Expose to direct sunlight for extended period of time as it may dry/fade natural wood.

  • Use steam cleaners. They are not recommended for use on natural wood flooring.

  • Place porous flower pots or vases on the floor.

  • Use steel wool or scourers.

  • Move heavy furniture without protecting wood flooring by slipping a piece of cloth or pile under the legs or bottom of items.

  • Ever wet-mop a wood floor. Standing water can dull a finish, damage the wood and leave a discoloring residue.
Normal exposure to sunlight, heat, air conditioners, etc. will bring about natural changes in the original color as the floor ages. If possible, use blinds or drapes to protect floor from excessive sunlight. When some areas of the floor are covered, as in large furniture pieces and area rugs, the change under these pieces can be lighter than the surrounding floor, as they are not exposed to the same conditions.

This is normal and is not a defect. Rotating the position of area rugs and furniture from time to time will allow the covered areas to slowly adjust in color to the surrounding floor.
Seasonal gapping can be expected, especially on wider planks. This is normal and not a defect. Throughout its life, wood will naturally expand and contract in response to the wet & dry seasons and also from the environmental conditions in the home. To keep these dimensional changes to a minimum, maintain the home temperature & relative humidity within the range outlined above.
During the winter months of low humidity, minor surface cracks (checks) may appear in wood flooring, then often close up again in the summer months when the humidity is higher. This is a normal characteristic of natural wood and not a basis of a complaint against the manufacturer, especially if there is no structural failure.

Laminate

Extend the life and preserve the appearance of your laminate flooring with our simple maintenance tips.

  • Use a damp cloth to blot up spills as soon as they happen. Never allow liquids to stand on your floor.

  • Do not wash or wet mop the floor with soap, water, oil-soap detergent, or any other liquid cleaning material, this could cause swelling, warping, delaminating, joint line separation, or other damage that may void warranty.

  • Do not use any type of buffing or polishing machine.

  • Frequent dust-mopping or vacuuming may be necessary in residences near sand or debris.

  • Entry mats will help detain dirt, sand, grit, and other substances such as oil, asphalt, or driveway sealer that may otherwise track onto your flooring.

  • Use floor protectors and wide-load bearing leg bases/ rollers to minimize chance of indentations and scratches from heavy objects. As a rule, the heavier the object, the wider the floor protector should be.

  • Maintain a normal indoor relative humidity level between 30% and 50% throughout the year to minimize the natural expansion and contraction of the wood.

  • Heating season (dry): A humidifier is recommended to prevent excess shrinkage due to low humidity levels. Wood stove and electric heat tend to create very dry conditions.

  • Non-heating season (wet): An air conditioner, dehumidifier, or periodically turning on heating will help to maintain humidity levels during summer months.

  • Never try to slide heavy objects across flooring without proper handling. A protective mat should be used for furniture with castors such as chairs or coffee tables