An Expert Guide to Hardwood Floor Care and Maintenance…
Wood is a natural, beautiful and timeless design and decorating element. We are drawn to it because of the warmth and uniqueness of each individual plank. But, as a natural material, it is important to understand what to expect of your wood floor and how to best care for it. Consistent and correct maintenance will insure the beauty and enjoyment of your wood floor for years to come.
First off, think walk off rugs.
Place walk off mats or area rugs at each entryway to collect dirt and grit that might be tracked in. Every grain of sand has many hard ridged cutting edges. These tiny particles act like sandpaper and will scratch your floor. Be sure to avoid using rubber-backed or non-ventilated mats or rugs as they can damage your floor. Instead use mats or rugs made especially for hardwood floors and remember to shake them out regularly.
In addition to entryways, remember to place mats in any areas where water may be splashed, such as near a kitchen sink.
The right tools and cleaners rule!3
Buy a good quality, soft bristled broom and sweep your new floor regularly to pick up grains of dirt, dust and other particles. A vacuum cleaner, without a beater bar, can be helpful in between planks and other hard to reach areas.
Cleaning techniques vary depending on the installation and finish of your hardwood floor.
For most hardwood floors, you can use a terrycloth mop with a rotating head that makes cleaning corners, under cabinets and along base boards an easy task. Spray a professional wood floor cleaning product recommended by your retailer to safely remove tough stains and spills without dulling the finish of your floor. Avoid using a lot of water on your wood floor under any circumstance. A damp mop, at most, is all that should be used. Remember that wood is a natural material and it will absorb excessive moisture causing it to expand and warp.
Hardwood care tips:
- All floors with a urethane finish should never be waxed and require cleaners that won’t leave a film or residue.
- A hardwood floor cleaner is useful in removing occasional scuffs or heel marks. Merely spray some cleaner on a cloth and lightly rub the stained area. Sticky spots can be cleaned with a damp (not wet) towel or sponge.
- Do not use ammonia cleaners or oil soaps on a wood floor, as they will dull the finish and performance of your floor.
- Since wood naturally expands when it is wet, never wet mop or use excessive water to clean your floor. Large amounts of water can cause the wood to swell and may cause your floor to crack or splinter.
- Being a natural product, hardwood will expand and contract due to moisture level changes. Minimize water exposure to hardwood floors and clean up spills as soon as they happen.
- All hardwood floors will fade, darken or change shades over time. Exposure to sunlight will greatly increase this process. Window treatments are recommended, as well as rotating area rugs and furniture regularly to allow floors to age evenly from UV exposure.
- Cover furniture and table legs with protectors to guard your floor against damage. Take care when moving heavy objects to avoid scuffing your floor.
- Stiletto heels can cause dents and scratches that are not covered by your warranty.
- Love your pet but regularly trim their nails or claws to avoid scratches on your hardwood floor.
- Be cautious of any sharp object that may scratch or damage your floor. Tread carefully!
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