The 7 NALFA "Need-to-Knows"

1. NALFA stands for the North American Laminate Flooring Association. We are the ONLY trade organization exclusively dedicated to the laminate flooring industry.

2. Our organization was founded in 1997 by a group of US and Canadian laminate manufacturers and importers who saw a need to promote the continuous and responsible growth of the laminate industry.

3. One of our primary missions is to help consumers navigate through the confusing and stressful floor buying process through research and education.

4. Industry leaders who participate on the NALFA board of directors and serve on NALFA committees do it on a completely volunteer basis. They receive no compensation for their services.

5. NALFA became an accredited ANSI standards developing organization in 2008 and has published testing standards for laminate flooring and underlayment products. Today, these tests are an industry standard for quality.

6. The NALFA certification seal is given to laminate flooring and underlayament products that pass the rigorous ANSI product standards testing. It represents the highest quality you can buy. Look for the seal before you make the deal!

7. NALFA membership is open to a wide variety of businesses who support the laminate flooring market: manufacturers, marketers, importers, retailers, installers, testing labs, buying groups, and suppliers of laminate flooring goods or services.

What’s Not to Like about Laminate Flooring?

Laminate flooring is quite possibly the best all-encompassing package for your decorating dollar and perfect for busy families who want low maintenance flooring. Check out this impressive list of benefits:

1. Laminate flooring is extremely durable

Protected by a tough external layer and resin coating, a laminate floor is much stronger, and more scratch-resistant, impact-resistant and longer lasting than any hardwood, vinyl, or carpet. It’s virtually resistant to dogs, cats, kids and even high heels.

2. Laminate flooring is stain, fade, and moisture resistant

Most laminate flooring manufacturers offer extensive warranty protection against stains, fading, and moisture damage. Hardwood floors, on the other hand, are subject to wood grain staining, fading in sunlight, and can scratch and dent easily.

3. Laminate flooring is easy to clean and maintain

Laminate's superior stain and moisture-resistant surface coating makes spills and other messes easy to handle. This special surface doesn’t require waxes or varnishes to keep it looking great.

4. Laminate flooring is easy to install

The introduction of glueless laminate floors revolutionized ease of installation in the industry. Not only are the flooring sections smaller, designed to interlock, and easier to work with, but laminate floors can also be installed over most non-textile existing subfloors. In this “floating floor” method of installation, the laminate floor is laid or “floated” over the existing subfloor without being glued to the surface. This saves considerable time and installation cost. Moreover, laminate floors are easy to un-install and replace quickly and easily when it’s time for a style update.

5. Laminate flooring is economical
Not only is laminate flooring generally less expensive than other hard surface floors to start with, but when its durability and longevity are considered, it becomes a particularly economical choice.

6. Laminate flooring offers a variety of styles
While many laminate floors simulate the authentic look of hardwood or stone, the possibilities for new styles and colors are limitless. A variety of color tones and patterns enable you to match the floor with the exact mood and style of your room, whether it’s rich and elegant or cool and contemporary. We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the availability, realism and quality of today’s laminate floor styles.

7. Laminate flooring is environmentally friendly
Laminate flooring is made from wood and wood by-products, and does not involve the harvesting of rare or endangered trees.

Is it green? Or just green paint?

By: E.C. “Bill” Dearing, President, NALFA

Visit any flooring department today and you’ll see a plethora of green colored signage—in fact, you have to look hard to find any display that doesn’t indicate, at the bare minimum, that a product will not cause adverse environmental impact. Some claims even make promises of saving the planet. So how does a consumer recognize overstating and greenwashing? What do the claims really mean? Is laminate flooring really “green”?

To answer the question about laminate flooring’s “greenness”, we’ll focus only on our NALFA Regular and Associate Member’s products — and with good reason. Unless a product is tested to NALFA standards, it cannot make claims about its relative performance to these standards with any certainty.

The first concerns of a shopper usually are the features and benefits, with sustainability now at the top of the list. When laminate flooring was introduced to North America in 1993, it was significantly ahead of most other flooring in environmental sustainability. It originated in Sweden who was striving towards “green” at least eight years before sustainability hit the average North American’s radar screen. The manufacturing process was extremely efficient in its time in order to make prices competitive, which in turn kept sourcing and production steps at a minimum. Finally, the product’s life cycle ended with further recycling of most of its components, or used as approved heating fuel or farming additives.

The Scandinavian consumer considered environmental recognition important and when a company was awarded the Scandinavian Green Swan for example, its logo was extensively promoted. Indoor air quality was linked to environmental concerns and once again, laminate flooring came through. Reported as superior to other flooring by various country’s health departments in this regard, Laminate Flooring rapidly replaced other options in these countries. By the way, “Laminate” refers to the tiniest component of a NALFA Member’s product which is the environmentally friendly protective cover that you can’t see yet gives well made Laminate Flooring its distinctive benefits of Wear, Fade and Stain.

NALFA Certified Laminate Flooring continues this tradition. For example, all of our Members’ products are CARB compliant. We invite anyone to visit www.nalfa.com for a complete update of our Green Standard initiative as well as a list of our Members, both Regular and Associate. From there, you may further link to our member’s sites where you will find that most have been awarded significant environmental recognition. A core NALFA belief is in our transparency; no smoke and mirrors, and never any deceptive statements.

It takes an effort for a company to claim genuine NALFA Certification and anyone concerned with sustainability (consumers, architects, dealers, installers, etc.) can visit our site and be directed easily to the standards that back up our NALFA Certification process. The NALFA certification seal, which gives a shopper and dealer assurance of quality and suitability, is proudly displayed by every NALFA member. And yes, it is “green”.

Choosing the Right Laminate Floor in 6 Easy Steps

Before diving into the wide selection of NALFA certified products, consider these 6 factors that can have a big impact on your final decision.

1. Consider design factors such as color, pattern, style, and finish

When it comes to design options, there is no shortage with laminate floors. Do you want a high-end hardwood look or a cool and contemporary stone look? Do you want dark and rich colors or light and airy? Determine the desired look for your room prior to starting the shopping process.

2. Consider functional factors such as traffic, sub flooring, grade of floor, temperature, humidity, and budget

Where is the room where you will be installing laminate? A main entry hall or kitchen that receives a lot of traffic may require a laminate floor with a higher wear rating, whereas installing on an upper floor may require a different type of underlayment compared to installation on a lower floor. Always check the manufacturer’s warranty before buying. The subfloor is another important consideration that will help you determine the type of testing and underlayment you will need.

3. Review available products that meet design and functional requirements and provide ease of installation, product quality, and a good brand reputation

Research, research, research. The more you know about the brand of your choice, the better prepared you will be to buy and install. Consumer reviews and 3^rd party endorsements (like NALFA) are a great way to ensure you’re buying the right product for your unique design and installation needs.

4. Identify which appropriate products are NALFA-certified, for highest quality assurance

Once you’ve identified the brand you want, check out which products are NALFA certified. The NALFA certification seal is testament to that product’s quality because it has passed the 10 rigorous tests and the high standards of the organization.

5. Select a NALFA-certified product

You’re almost there! Now that you’ve identified the brand and NALFA certified product that you want, select the perfect color to transform your room from the collection available.

6. Purchase and install, either DIY, or using professional installers

Laminate flooring is easy to install for the do-it-yourselfer. Watch our informative installation video to see just how easy it can be. Looking for a professional installer? Make sure you hire one that’s been through our NALFA installer certification school for the highest-quality, longest-lasting finished room.

This one's for you, laminate installers!

There's still time to sign-up for a 2010 NALFA installer certification class!

The comprehensive training curriculum covers all aspects of a quality laminate installation and is designed for individuals with at least two years of experience as a laminate flooring installer. Each session lasts two days and you'll receive a NALFA certification certificate, ID card, and use of the associated logo and marketing materials upon successful completion of the program.

You'll also be added to the searchable, certified installer database available online at NALFA.com. What a great way to grow your business with dealers and consumers!

Space is limited, so early registration is recommended.

Remaining 2010 Installation Certification Classes:

June 28 & 29: Calhoun, GA

August 16 & 17: Salem, NJ

August 30 & 31: Calhoun, GA

October 11 & 12: Salem, NJ

October 25 & 26: Calhoun, GA

December 13 & 14: Salem, NJ

The cost of the program is $450 for NALFA members ($500 for non-members) and includes all instructional materials, on-site tools, meals, membership certificate, ID card, and rights to the NALFA logo and marketing materials. Certified installers may renew their membership yearly for a cost of $100.

To register for a class or for more information, please call Teiya Eubanks at (423) 316-1566.

Foam Products Corp. and TORLYS Underlayments Earn NALFA Certification Seal

All of us at NALFA are pleased to announce that two laminate underlayment manufacturers have earned the NALFA Certification Seal. The Silencer™ from Foam Products Corp. and TORLYS Safe & Sound underlayment brands have successfully passed ANSI product testing and may now display the NALFA certification seal as testament to their quality.

“Underlayment quality is a major issue in today’s industry,” says Erik Arnold with Foam Products Corp. “NALFA certification gives great credibility and upholding to our product’s reputation and track record for unparalleled performance.”

Tino Couto from TORLYS added, “TORLYS laminate flooring is already certified by NALFA. It is a valued certification and was a logical step for us to pursue for our underlayment. It gives our customers peace of mind and assurance when buying our state-of-the-art products.”

In order to earn the NALFA Certification Seal and the quality that it represents, a laminate underlayment product must pass two tiers of demanding tests designed to evaluate its performance. Tests include but are not limited to impact sound, airborne sound transmission, compression deflection, thickness, and moisture vapor transmission. Underlayment products that successfully pass testing are outfitted with the NALFA Certification Seal. Builders and homeowners can identify the seal and rest assured the product they are choosing meets and/or exceeds the highest level of industry standards set forth by NALFA.

“It is great to see the constant support from top manufacturers in the laminate underlayment industry,” said E. C. “Bill” Dearing, president of NALFA. “By continually submitting product lines for the rigorous testing conducted by NALFA, Foam Products Corp. and TORLYS are not only showing their support for industry standards, they are also showcasing the quality of their brands. We applaud them for their efforts to seek NALFA Certification on their products.”

The NALFA Certification Seal can be located on the manufacturer’s Web site, marketing materials or promotional materials as well as the product packaging itself. By identifying the seal, builders and homeowners will know they are selecting a product that is long- lasting, durable and capable of meeting the highest level of standards within the laminate flooring industry.

Meet our New Associate Member - Selit North America!

Selit North America, Inc. has recently joined the North American Laminate Flooring Association (NALFA) as an Associate Member. NALFA Associate Members are corporations, partnerships, proprietorships or other entities that are regularly engaged in the business of selling goods or services to a NALFA Regular Member. (Regular Members are manufacturers, marketers or importers of laminate flooring for the North American market.)

“Becoming a NALFA associate member was a key priority for us in 2010,” says Neil Duggan, President of Selit North America. “We are looking forward to working closely with NALFA’s members as we continue to develop underlayment products that meet our customer’s high expectations.”

Bill Dearing, President of NALFA adds, “We are always happy to welcome new members and associate members. They are our diving force as we continue to develop standards and drive quality changes in the laminate segment.”

Selit North America is a leading supplier of high-quality foam underlayment products for use in the laminate flooring industry and its applications. Selit provides products to both manufacturers and distributors and their customers. For more information, call 404-363-6680 or email info@selit.com.

Wilsonart Receives GREENGUARD Children and School Certification!

NALFA proudly congratulates one of its members on its GREENGUARD certification! Press release below:

Wilsonart Flooring's Estate Plus, Red Label, Professional Studio, Contract and BlueFusion® Flooring Seam Adhesive products have been awarded GREENGUARD Children & Schools Certification – another indication of how Wilsonart places sustainability first for its High Pressure Laminate (HPL) Flooring products. Said Wilsonart Flooring Marketing Communications Manager Tammy Weadock, "We are proud to say that our High Pressure Laminate Flooring products made the grade under the strict GREENGUARD Children & Schools criteria." The second–generation label follows the GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certification already received by the HPL leader from the most thorough third–party indoor air quality certification program available.

The GREENGUARD Children & Schools Certification joins other accolades for the company’s stewardship in environmental sustainability:

Low Emitting Materials – Flooring Systems: Wilsonart Flooring already exceeds the industry’s highest standards for Indoor Air Quality, with GREENGUARD Certification on all High Pressure Laminate collections. The BlueFusion Flooring Seam Adhesive is also GREENGUARD Certified. In addition to meeting strict GREENGUARD standards, Wilsonart Flooring offers other important benefits associated with hardsurface flooring: it does not harbor dust, dirt or odors, and is easy to maintain with Wilsonart Laminate Flooring Cleaner, which is 100% biodegradable and VOC–free.

• California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase I Compliant (Classic)
• California 93120 NAF Compliant ~ No Added Formaldehyde (Estate Plus, Red Label, Professional Studio, Contract)

Wilsonart Flooring’s total recycled content by weight is a minimum of 70% pre–consumer recycled wood fiber, as independently certified by Scientific Certification Systems, SCS–MC–00209, www.SCScertified.com.

Wilsonart Flooring is the first North American laminate flooring manufacturer to receive Forest Stewardship Council&tread; Certification Registration, ensuring that products marked with the recognizable FSC “checkmark and tree” ecologo were sourced from responsibly managed forests.

"There are many benefits of this certification for Wilsonart and its dealers," said Weadock. "Our HPL products now have more relevance than ever for specification in the education arena – especially day care centers – as well as multi–housing and healthcare. Distributors and dealers alike can provide their clients with added incentive to choose Wilsonart Flooring." Separately, the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute (GEI) announced that it achieved ISO/IEC Guide 65:1996 accreditation, the world’s most prestigious endorsement of a product certification program as developed by the International Organization for Standardization. This globally recognized, voluntary accreditation assures that organizations operating product certifications are credible, reliable, objective, and high–quality. Achieving ISO Guide 65 accreditation ensures that GEI operates fairly and objectively.

For more information, call the Wilsonart Customer Service Hotline at 800–435–9109. Customers can also visit Sustain.Wilsonart.com.

Wilsonart International was founded in 1956 and has since grown to become the leading producer of High Pressure Decorative Laminate in North America. The company has achieved success through a combination of outstanding service, high–quality products and a focus on continuously redefining the laminate surface through improved performance and aesthetics. Wilsonart Flooring was introduced in 1995 and has continuously earned top honors for quality by floor covering retailers. All Wilsonart Flooring products are manufactured in the USA in Temple, Texas.

About GREENGUARD Environmental Institute (GEI) The GREENGUARD Environmental Institute is an industry–independent, not–for–profit organization that aims to protect human health and improve quality of life by reducing people’s exposure to chemicals and other pollutants. As an ISO–IEC Guide 65:1996 accredited, third party certifying body, the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute certifies products and materials for low chemical emissions and provides consumers with a resource for choosing healthier products and materials for indoor environments. All certified products must meet stringent standards for low chemical emissions based on established criteria from key public health agencies. GREENGUARD Certification is broadly recognized and accepted by sustainable building programs and building codes worldwide. For more information and a complete listing of certified products, visit www.greenguard.org.

FAUS DONATES FLOORING TO GROUND ZERO MUSEUM

This past March, NALFA member Faus Group teamed up with The Home Depot to donate products for the Ground Zero Museum in New York City.

Faus and Home Depot have worked together on several projects in the past but this was one project everyone was excited to take on. Faus considered it an honor to supply the flooring for such a great cause, considering the impact the memorial will have and meaning behind the Ground Zero Museum. The requested Pine flooring is manufactured by Faus Group, Inc. for Home Depot under the DuPont® brand name. It is a premium laminate product and perfect for the high traffic area.

Faus gladly donated over 1,100 square feet of DuPont flooring and moldings to cover the floor space in the museum. Installation was done by 10 of Home Depot associates with the assistance of two Faus Group employees, Leslie Henderson and Rich Koenig. The installation was done on May 3 starting at 9:00 a.m. in the morning and was finished by 5:00 p.m. that afternoon.

“This is one project that will be remembered as a 2010 highlight for us. It was great to be able to help change the museum into a pleasing place for people to come visit, reflect and remember what happened on September 11, 2001” says Wayne Norman, Director of Sales at Faus Group, Inc.

NALFA Installer Certification Classes Filling Fast

The North American Laminate Flooring Association (NALFA) kicked-off its 2010 Installer Certification School this past February and remaining classes are filling fast.

“We are thrilled at the response we’ve received from dealers and installers,” says Bill Dearing, President of NALFA. “It’s an exceptional opportunity for participants to garner improved knowledge and skills along with a real competitive advantage in the marketplace.”

The comprehensive training curriculum covers all aspects of a quality laminate installation and is designed for individuals with at least two years of experience as a laminate flooring installer. Each session lasts two days and participants receive a NALFA certification certificate, ID card, and use of the associated logo and marketing materials upon successful completion of the program. They are also added to the certified retailer database available to dealers and consumers on the NALFA website.

April classes scheduled for Salem, NJ and Calhoun, GA are completely sold-out, but remaining 2010 dates and locations are still available. Space is limited, so early registration is recommended.

Remaining 2010 Installation Certification Classes:

April 12 & 13: Salem, NJ – SOLD OUT

April 26 & 27: Calhoun, GA – SOLD OUT

May 17 & 18: City of Industry, CA

May 19 & 20: City of Industry, CA

June 14 & 15: Salem, NJ

June 28 & 29: Calhoun, GA

August 16 & 17: Salem, NJ

August 30 & 31: Calhoun, GA

October 11 & 12: Salem, NJ

October 25 & 26: Calhoun, GA

December 13 & 14: Salem, NJ

The cost of the program is $450 for NALFA members ($500 for non-members) and includes all instructional materials, on-site tools, meals, membership certificate, ID card, and rights to the NALFA logo and marketing materials. Certified installers may renew their membership yearly for a cost of $100.

To register for a class or for more information, please call Teiya Eubanks at (423) 316-1566.

NALFA has been setting the standard in the laminate flooring industry for the past 13 years. For more information, please visit www.nalfa.com.

Going Green? Go With the NALFA Certification Seal

Certification ensures sustainability and quality in laminate flooring

Laminate flooring is inherently eco-friendly. It’s made with natural resources, it’s recyclable, and it’s free of air-damaging chemicals. But the North American Laminate Flooring Association (NALFA) knows that not all products make the cut and remains committed to helping consumers choose the right products for their homes and businesses. The NALFA certification seal is proof that a laminate floor is both sustainable and the highest quality.

“Customers are faced with a multitude of choices when it comes to laminate flooring and sustainability is more important than ever,” says Bill Dearing, president of NALFA. “It is our job is recognize only quality products that meet environmental, durability, and performance standards. When a product passes our testing, we know it’s built to last.”

Laminate floors that have earned the NALFA certification seal offer consumers a variety of benefits:

• It has passed a series of 10 rigorous performance tests including but not limited to static load, thickness swell, impact resistance, light resistance, wear resistance, cleanability/stain resistance, dimensional tolerances and castor chair resistance
• It complies with formaldehyde emissions regulations for laminate flooring core board set forth by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) sections 93120-93120.12, title 17, of the California Code of Regulations.
• It is comprised of at least 74% recycled content (pre-consumer waste)
• It may be used in homes and businesses that meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards
• It requires no special glues or adhesives during installation (eliminating VOCs) and no special cleaners for proper cleaning and maintenance (improving air quality)

NALFA is the only trade organization dedicated to the laminate flooring industry. Formed in 1997 by manufacturers and importers, NALFA is today an accredited ANSI standards developing organization and is the benchmark for quality in the laminate flooring industry. The organization is continuing work on developing new sustainability standards for laminate flooring manufacturers and hopes to have approved processes and regulations in place by 2011.

“The new sustainability standard will help to assess the ‘green factor’ of laminate flooring and related products, such as underlayment,” Dearing says. “This will create a complete and complimentary picture of the performance of environmentally-friendly laminate flooring.”

For more information about how NALFA has been setting the standard in the laminate flooring industry for the past 13 years, visit www.nalfa.com.

NALFA Installation Video Coming March 24th!

Thanks for visiting our site to watch the new NALFA laminate flooring installation video. Whether you’re a professional installer or a do-it-yourself weekend warrior, we know you will find it useful. The footage is shot and we’re busy in the editing suite working on the final cut.

We'll have it up and ready to watch on March 24th so please visit again!

Make Clean Cuts With A Laminate Trimmer | DoItYourself.com

A laminate trimmer is a useful tool when installing laminate on cupboards or countertops. It can create an instant upgrade to your cabinetry as well as professional look and finish to any do-it-yourself job.

Read more: http://www.doityourself.com/stry/make-clean-cuts-with-a-laminate-trimmer#ixzz0fcjeLo6R

New Trend! Laminate on Walls and Ceilings

Classen, New Trend, Laminate on Walls and Ceilings

At this year's Domotex tradeshow, various exhibitors - first and foremost the Classen Group - showed where the laminate floor journey appears to be going in the future - along walls and ceilings.

A Classen employee summed up on the last day of the trade fair: „We were able to more than confirm our status as an innovative producer of laminate floors". The various enhancements that were presented and the positive response to the Classen Group trade fair stand emphasise this statement. Another Classen employee adds: "The Classen Group will no doubt be one of the year's climbers this year. Numerous discussions with experts on our stand have signalled this."

One brand new topic at this year's Domotex was the continuation of laminate flooring on walls and ceilings. This concept - resolutely thought through by the Classen Group - attracted a great deal of attention on the Classen stand. Under the name "gekko — Laminate Goes Wall“, the patented innovation astounded the trade audience. "We have already been able to note a lively interest in the market. The major business enterprises urgently need these kinds of innovations from the laminate sector. The Classen Group is held in high regard here time and time again as a competent business partner."

Not least, this year's Domotex actually did show with products like the gekko assembly system that more and more originally exclusive laminate-flooring producers are now also becoming suppliers of laminate applications. As a result of the new uses for laminate floors, additional possibilities are arising that are closely connected with the classic interior fittings sector. With systems like "gekko — Laminate Goes Wall", the robust laminate joists with all their advantages become an attractive, extremely high-quality alternative to traditional wall panelling, regardless of whether they are made of paper, fabric, wood or derived timber products.

"This way, manufacturers of laminate floors and the retail market experience an increase in the number of business outlets in the laminate-flooring sector. Even if the term "floor" is no longer quite correct with these new applications."

The new soft&silent - the quiet laminate, which was launched by Classen into the DIY and speciality markets in the summer of 2009, has aroused a great deal of interest. The new Airsolution technology considerably enhances walking comfort and reduces ambience by more than 50%. "After nearly six months we can say that our soft&silent laminate has been very well received. In addition to the far lower ambience, it offers a multitude of additional comfort features, such as a surface that is pleasantly warm to the feet.

The Classen product management explained the advantages of the quiet laminate flooring: "soft&silent is true comfort flooring, right up to its simple installation with our quick-laying system Classen megaloc".

Classen's successful 30/60 collection visiogrande has been enhanced by an additional four decors. The "visiogrande Antik" stone decors reproduce the typical stones from Roman times that were also among the preferred building materials for monasteries, cathedrals or castle in the Middle Ages: Donzdorf and Maulbronn sandstone as well as Aachen bluestone and the so-called Belgian granite are timelessly beautiful stones that can still be seen even today in historic masonry. It will be particularly attractive when these antique stone decors are combined with modern furnishings or old, solid furniture.

talkfloor.com

How to Clean a Wood Laminate Floor

Cleaning a wood laminate floor is easy.

stock.xchng: crisderaud

Wood laminate floors are less expensive than hardwood floors and are much easier to install. Since wood laminate floors can be installed over virtually any surface, most homeowners install wood laminate floors themselves. For this reason, wood laminate floors are a great alternative to installing hardwood floors. Cleaning a wood laminate floor is just as easy as long as you have the right cleaning supplies. Here's how to clean a wood laminate floor:

Things You'll Need:

• soft bristle broom and dustpan
• swiffer sweeper dry and wet cloths and handle
• dry towels
• damp towels
• wood laminate floor cleaner of your choice

1. Step 1: Sweep the wood laminate floor.
   
   

   Sweep the wood laminate floor to remove any dust and debris before you start to clean it.

2. Step 2: Dust the wood laminate floor.
   
   
   
   

   Dust the wood laminate floor with a swiffer sweeper dry cloth. This will help clean up any remaining dust and debris you didn't get with the broom.

3. Step 3: Spray it with a wood laminate floor cleaner.
   
   
   
   

   Spray it with a wood laminate floor cleaner and wipe it clean with a damp towel. You can purchase a wood laminate floor cleaner at your local home improvement store. Make sure it is marked clearly for cleaning wood laminate floors. You need to avoid using soapy cleansing agents. Armstrong makes a great wood laminate floor cleaner and is pictured at left.

4. Step 4: Wipe up any remaining moisture.
   
   
   
   

   Use dry towels to wipe up any remaining water on the wood laminate floor. Now your floors should look brand new!

By writedesign
Courtesy of EHow

Tips to Properly Maintain Your Laminate Floor

It's hard to damage and easy to care for laminate floors. Here are some tips on how to properly maintain them:

1. Carefully read the warranty and care instructions provided for your flooring. Follow them as much as you can and refer to them if a problem develops.
2. Ask for post-installation care instructions.You may not be able to mop the floor for 48 hours or you may be given other care instructions,depending on the flooring brand.
3. Don't wet-mop laminate floors, because puddles could seep behind basebords and under your floor, damaging them.Only vacuum and then damp-mop them.
4. Don't ever apply wax or acrylic floor finishes.
5. Use only the stain-removal products recommended by the flooring manufacturer.Typical suggestions in product literature are: acetone, for cigarette burns and nail-polish spills, and mineral spirits for grease and tar.
6. Buy doormats for doorways that lead to the garage or outdoors.These doormats will trap grit that can gradually cause light scratching on the laminate floor's surface.
7. Put easy-glide protective buttons on the feet of the furniture.
8. Use dollies when moving a large piece of furniture or a heavy appliance across a laminate floor or else you could leave a scratch by getting tiny peebles caught under a furniture foot or a wheel.

Take common-sense precautions to protect your floor when working with sharp or heavy objects.For example, put down a thick tarp or a carpet scrap to protect the laminate floor when installing a ceiling fan and using a drill; you can damage the floor by accidentally dropping it.

Source:www.laminateflooring.oncloud8.com

NALFA and CFI Partner to Promote Installation Professionalism: Lowe’s Laminate Installers to be certified by NALFA

The North American Laminate Flooring Association (NALFA) and the International Certified Floorcovering Installers Association (CFI) will provide expanded laminate installation training to the Lowe’s Wood and Laminate Installer program. Upon completion of the course, installers are eligible to take the NALFA and CFI test for certification.

“NALFA is very excited for the opportunity to partner with CFI and Lowe’s for installer training,” says Bill Dearing, president of NALFA. “The partnership helps to promote installation professionalism and reinforces NALFA’s presence as an expert in the laminate flooring industry.”

The 8-hour laminate curriculum was developed by NALFA. CFI will conduct 26 sessions throughout the year, with a potential to certify about 416 installers. Topics to be covered in the sessions include: moisture, subfloors, floor prep, manufacturer specific laminate product knowledge, problems, causes, skills sessions on proper installation techniques, homework, a written test and a skills test. Sales representatives will also attend the sessions and are required to pass the written test.

Professional installers who successfully complete the requirements of two-years of experience and the written and skills tests of the laminate training course will be certified through NALFA.

“The association with NALFA adds another opportunity for flooring installers to achieve a higher level of professionalism through knowledge and skill,” says Jim Walker, CEO of CFI. “We continually strive to build an environment in which the customers receive what is expected at the time of the sale; quality work provided by professional, certified Installers with the ultimate in customer service skills.”

In addition to the certification through the CFI Laminate training with Lowe’s, installers can be independently certified through NALFA by attending the NALFA Installer Certification School. This curriculum covers every aspect of quality laminate installations and gives the attendees the skills necessary to perform installations to high standards and craftsmanship in the field. For more information, visit www.nalfa.com.

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NALFA has been setting the standard in the laminate flooring industry for the past 13 years. For more information visit www.nalfa.com.

CFI was founded in 1993. In 2009, the organization represents over 42,550 installers worldwide who regard customer satisfaction as the ultimate goal. For more information visit www.cfiinstallers.com

Eco-Friendly Materials Being Used More in Homes

Eco-Friendly Materials Being Used More in Homes
With Al Gore's documentary, The Inconvenient Truth, and the growing global awareness, more Americans are choosing to "go green." According to McGraw Hill NAHB report, America’s builders have adopted green home building permanently, with more than 50 percent of homebuilders participating in green building.