Ikea Chair Mats For Hardwood? (4 Scratches Avoided!)
If you think your beautiful hardwood floors are safe from damage, think again—unless you’re using Ikea chair mats!
I’ve seen firsthand how quickly rolling office chairs can turn a pristine floor into a scratched-up mess.
In this article, I’ll show you how Ikea chair mats can be a game-changer, and I’ll reveal the four specific types of scratches these mats can help prevent.
The Importance of Protecting Hardwood Floors
Hardwood flooring is more than just a surface; it’s an investment.
It adds warmth, character, and value to any space, whether it’s your home office or a commercial workspace.
But let’s face it: hardwood is vulnerable.
Rolling office chairs are notorious for causing damage.
I’ve been in the flooring business for over 15 years, and I’ve seen it all.
From minor surface scratches to deep, unsightly gouges, the damage can be significant.
Think about it: the average office worker spends at least 6 hours a day sitting in their chair, constantly moving and shifting.
All that rolling and pivoting adds up.
According to a study by the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA), scratches and dents are among the top reasons for hardwood floor repairs and replacements.
The cost of refinishing or replacing hardwood floors can range from $3 to $8 per square foot, quickly adding up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
That’s why protecting your hardwood floors is essential, and Ikea chair mats can be a simple, cost-effective solution.
Understanding Ikea Chair Mats
Ikea.
We all know them.
They are the Swedish giant known for affordable, functional furniture and accessories.
Their chair mats are no exception.
Ikea offers a variety of chair mats designed to protect your floors from the wear and tear of rolling chairs.
These mats come in different materials, sizes, and designs to suit various needs and preferences.
You’ll find options made from plastic, polycarbonate, and even cork.
Sizes range from small mats perfect for tight spaces to larger mats that provide ample coverage for expansive workstations.
But how do these mats actually work?
Essentially, they create a barrier between your chair’s wheels and the hardwood floor.
The material properties of the mat, such as its durability and slip-resistance, play a crucial role in safeguarding your floors.
A good chair mat will absorb the impact of chair movement, preventing scratches, dents, and other types of damage.
The Four Types of Scratches Prevented
by Ikea Chair Mats
Okay, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty.
What specific types of scratches can Ikea chair mats help you avoid?
I’ve identified four key categories based on my experience as a flooring contractor.
Type 1: Surface Scratches
Surface scratches are the most common type of damage I see on hardwood floors under office chairs.
These are typically light, hairline scratches caused by the constant friction of chair wheels rolling back and forth.
They might not seem like a big deal at first, but over time, they can accumulate and dull the finish of your hardwood floors.
Ikea chair mats create a protective barrier that absorbs the impact of chair movement, preventing those surface scratches from occurring in the first place.
Think of it like a shield for your floors.
Type 2: Indentation Scratches
Indentation scratches are a bit more serious.
These are deeper scratches that occur when the weight of the chair and the person sitting in it presses down on the floor, creating small indentations.
These scratches are often caused by chairs with hard plastic or metal wheels that don’t distribute weight evenly.
Ikea chair mats, especially those made from thicker materials, provide extra support and cushioning.
This helps distribute the weight of the chair more evenly, reducing the pressure on any one spot and preventing those indentation scratches from forming.
Type 3: Deep Scratches
Deep scratches are the worst-case scenario.
These are significant gouges in the hardwood that can be difficult or impossible to repair without refinishing the entire floor.
They’re often caused by heavy chairs, sharp objects caught in the wheels, or simply improper use of the chair.
While no chair mat can guarantee complete protection against deep scratches, Ikea mats can significantly minimize the risk.
The durable materials used in these mats can withstand a lot of abuse.
They can help prevent sharp objects from directly contacting the hardwood surface.
Type 4: Wear and Tear Scratches
Even without any specific incidents, prolonged use of chairs on hardwood can lead to gradual wear and tear.
This type of damage manifests as a general dulling of the finish and the appearance of fine scratches and scuff marks over time.
It’s like the floor is slowly being worn away by the constant friction.
Ikea chair mats can extend the life of your hardwood flooring by reducing friction and wear.
They provide a smooth, consistent surface for your chair to roll on, minimizing the abrasive forces that cause wear and tear scratches.
Choosing the Right Ikea Chair Mat for
Hardwood
Okay, so you’re convinced that you need an Ikea chair mat.
But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one for your hardwood floors?
Here’s a detailed guide based on my experience.
1. Size: – Measure the area you need to protect. – Consider the range of motion of your chair. – Choose a mat that’s large enough to cover the entire area your chair wheels will be rolling on. – I generally recommend a mat that extends at least 12 inches beyond the edge of your desk in all directions.
2. Shape: – Ikea offers chair mats in various shapes, including rectangular, square, and rounded. – Choose a shape that complements your desk and the layout of your room. – Rounded mats can be a good option for corner desks or smaller spaces.
3. Thickness: – The thickness of the chair mat is important for preventing indentation scratches. – Look for a mat that’s at least 1/8 inch thick. – Thicker mats will provide more cushioning and support.
4. Material Compatibility: – Consider the type of finish on your hardwood floors. – Some materials, like PVC, can react with certain finishes and cause discoloration or damage. – Ikea offers chair mats made from polycarbonate, which is generally considered safe for most hardwood floors. – Cork mats are another eco-friendly option that’s gentle on hardwood.
5. Specific Ikea Chair Mat Comparisons:
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KOLON: This is Ikea’s classic chair mat made from polyethylene. It’s affordable and durable, but it may not be the best choice for delicate hardwood floors.
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RISSLA: This is a cork chair mat that’s both stylish and eco-friendly. It provides good cushioning and is gentle on hardwood floors.
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LILLASEN: This is a bamboo slatted floor protector. It’s not exactly a chair mat but may be a suitable alternative.
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PROTECTA: This is a clear polycarbonate chair mat. It’s designed to be durable and easy to clean. It’s a good choice for protecting hardwood floors from scratches and dents. However, this has been discontinued from Ikea.
Installation and Maintenance of Ikea
Chair Mats
Once you’ve chosen the right Ikea chair mat, it’s time to install it.
Here are some step-by-step instructions:
1. Clean the Floor: – Before you install the chair mat, make sure the floor is clean and free of dust, dirt, and debris. – Sweep or vacuum the area thoroughly. – You can also use a damp mop to clean the floor, but make sure it’s completely dry before proceeding.
2. Unroll the Chair Mat: – Ikea chair mats are typically rolled up for shipping. – Unroll the mat and lay it flat on the floor. – You may need to weigh down the corners to help it flatten out. – Leave it for a few hours or overnight to allow it to fully flatten.
3. Position the Chair Mat: – Position the chair mat so that it’s centered under your desk and covers the area where your chair wheels will be rolling. – Make sure the mat is oriented correctly, with the smooth side facing up.
4. Secure the Chair Mat (Optional): – Some Ikea chair mats come with a non-slip backing to help keep them in place. – If your mat doesn’t have a non-slip backing, you can use double-sided tape to secure it to the floor. – Be careful not to use tape that could damage the finish of your hardwood floors.
5. Maintain the Chair Mat: – To keep your Ikea chair mat in good condition, it’s important to clean it regularly. – Wipe the mat down with a damp cloth to remove dust, dirt, and spills. – Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these could damage the mat. – Reposition the mat occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the floor.
Customer Reviews and Experiences
Don’t just take my word for it.
Let’s see what other customers are saying about Ikea chair mats.
I’ve scoured online reviews and forums to gather some real-world feedback.
Here are a few examples:
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“I bought the KOLON chair mat for my home office, and it’s been a lifesaver. My hardwood floors are now protected from scratches, and my chair rolls smoothly and easily.” – Sarah J.
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“The RISSLA cork chair mat is not only functional but also looks great in my office. I love that it’s made from sustainable materials, and it’s very gentle on my hardwood floors.” – Michael B.
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“I was a little hesitant to buy a chair mat, but I’m so glad I did. The Ikea mat has saved my hardwood floors from so many scratches, and it was very affordable.” – Emily K.
Of course, not all reviews are positive.
Some customers have complained that the KOLON chair mat can be slippery on certain types of hardwood floors.
Others have noted that the mats can be difficult to unroll and flatten out.
However, the overall consensus is that Ikea chair mats are a worthwhile investment for protecting hardwood floors.
Conclusion
Protecting your hardwood floors from scratches is essential for maintaining their beauty and value.
Ikea chair mats offer a simple, cost-effective solution for preventing the four types of scratches I’ve discussed in this article: surface scratches, indentation scratches, deep scratches, and wear and tear scratches.
By choosing the right Ikea chair mat and following the installation and maintenance tips I’ve provided, you can extend the life of your hardwood floors and keep them looking their best for years to come.
So, what are you waiting for?
Call to Action
Visit your nearest Ikea store or website today to explore the range of chair mats available.
Protect your flooring investment and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your hardwood floors are safe from scratches and damage.
You won’t regret it!
