Smart Home Products AquaGuard Paperbark is a 12mm water resistant laminate flooring board and sits at the top of the Smart Home Products laminate range. Each pack contains five wide-format boards measuring 1518mm × 236mm × 12mm and covers 1.79m². Paperbark is a pale, soft greige oak décor with cool cream-beige tones and low grain contrast, suited to smaller rooms, apartments and coastal or Scandinavian-style interiors where a light floor is used to make a space feel larger and brighter.

The high-density water resistant core resists swelling from surface spills and damp mopping, making Paperbark suitable for kitchens, dining rooms, hallways, bedrooms and laundries. Its AC5 wear rating is the highest wear class applied to laminate flooring and covers heavy domestic and light commercial traffic, including households with pets and children.

Paperbark installs as a floating floor using the 5G drop-lock system. The short end of each board carries a plastic locking tab that drops into the adjoining board, so no glue, no nails and no tapping block are needed, and boards can be lifted and relaid if required. The surface uses 4D EIR (embossed in register) technology, which presses the timber texture in line with the printed grain rather than applying a generic pattern, and painted bevelled edges on all four sides define each plank so the finished floor reads as individual timber boards rather than a continuous sheet.

Recommended accessory: install over Smart Home Products 2mm UnderGuard XPS Underlay (I/N 1052131) for underfoot comfort, reduced noise transfer and a moisture barrier over concrete slabs.

1. Regular Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum the floor regularly to remove dust, dirt, and debris. Use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to prevent scratching the surface.
2. Damp Mopping: Unlike non-water-resistant laminate flooring, water-resistant laminate can tolerate damp mopping. Use a well-wrung mop or a microfiber cloth dampened with water or a mild, pH-neutral laminate floor cleaner. Avoid using excessive water.
3. Prompt Spill Cleanup: Wipe up spills immediately using a slightly damp cloth or sponge. Water-resistant laminate can withstand brief exposure to moisture, but it’s important to clean up spills promptly to prevent any potential damage.
4. Protective Pads and Mats: Place protective pads or mats under heavy furniture to prevent scratching or denting the laminate surface. Use mats near entrances to trap dirt and moisture before they reach the floor.
5. Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Do not use abrasive or harsh cleaning agents, as they can damage the laminate finish. Stick to mild, pH-neutral cleaners specifically designed for laminate flooring. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any recommended cleaning products.
6. Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade the colour of laminate flooring over time. Consider using curtains, blinds, or UV-protective window films to minimize sun exposure and protect the floor.
7. Use Proper Cleaning Tools: When using cleaning products or tools, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a damp mop or a laminate floor cleaning spray specifically formulated for water-resistant laminate flooring.