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You might be wondering, “Is laminate flooring toxic?” The product does contain formaldehyde, which is found in the resins used to bind the wood fibers together. But the chance of overexposure and adverse reactions, such as allergy- or asthma-like symptoms, is low unless you are exposed to formaldehyde in other places, i.e., if you work with formaldehyde regularly outside the home. Keep in mind, too, that many household products have the potential to pose a health hazard, such as cleaning products.

In addition to local hardware stores, many big-box chains and national equipment rental companies carry floor sanders for rent. Additionally, U-Sand, manufacturers of a random orbital floor sander, operate a rental program in partnership with a number of different regional chains and local outlets. Make sure to thoroughly compare the prices at all the stores nearest you—while the costs average out to a similar range across dealerships, some of them offer significantly better rates for long-term rentals than others.

Protect hardwood floors in the kitchen by refinishing your floors every five to seven years or having them evaluated by a local specialist. Place mats around common food prep areas like the counter and island and keep up with treating water or grease stains as soon as they occur. Hardwood floors add a classic, rustic element of style to kitchens, but it does make them more susceptible to water damage and grease stains. 

When deciding whether to repair or replace your carpet, consider its age, the extent of the damage, and its location. It's often best to replace the entire carpet if the damage is extensive, such as large sections needing replacement, or if it's caused by water, which can lead to mold problems. Similarly, if your carpet is nearing a decade old, replacement is likely the more logical choice. On the other hand, consider repairing your carpet if the damage is localized to one spot, like minor rips or snags, the carpet is still relatively new, or the damage is in a low-traffic area of your home.