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Common Problems Found With Pergo Flooring

Robin Hewitt

Pergo is the originator of the laminate floating floor, and has continued to be a leading innovator in the field by continuously upgrading and improving their product line.

Because of this fact, the name “Pergo” has become synonymous with laminate flooring, and care should be taken to confirm the laminate in question is actually a Pergo product rather than another brand of laminate flooring.

Installation Errors

Although Pergo flooring is advertised as a do-it-yourself product, homeowners often encounter difficulties when attempting to install their own floors. Common problems encountered by novice installers include installation of chipped planks, incorrect staggering of planks, failure to acclimate the product before installation, failure to properly measure concrete moisture content before installation and failure to properly undercut doorways during installation. Any of these errors can result in a defective installation, which will void all product warranties.

Improper Expansion

Maintaining proper expansion space on all outer edges of Pergo flooring is vital to product performance. Failure to maintain a minimum expansion space of one-quarter inch around the perimeter of the room as well as all areas where the floor meets a vertical surface will result in the planks of Pergo buckling and warping and will void the warranty.

Liquids

Pergo flooring is designed to be self-sealing when the planks are snapped into place; however the product guide clearly states that a Pergo floor should never be subjected to standing liquid as seepage may occur and result in permanent damage. All outside edges of the Pergo flooring must be sealed with 100 percent silicone when installed in a room that has potential water exposure, such as a kitchen, laundry room or bathroom. In addition, Pergo should never be cleaned with a steam machine, as steam will permanently damage the floor.

Improper Maintenance

Pergo flooring is designed to be dry-cleaned or lightly cleaned with a slightly dampened cloth only, using Pergo brand floor cleaner, a mixture of vinegar and water, or a mixture of household ammonia and water. Using detergents, clean-and-wax products, floor wax or polish can permanently discolor the Pergo or leave a permanent residue on the surface of the floor. Care should always be taken to fully understand the required maintenance methods once the flooring has been installed.