fbpx

7 Steps to Make Your Hardwood Floor Last a Lifetime

What Does the EPA Lead RRP Rule Mean to Me?
May 18, 2017
home remodeling cincinnati
Should I Build a New Home or Remodel My Current Home?
June 15, 2017

Unlike many of the flooring choices on the market, hardwood flooring is a long-term investment for your home, and if cared for properly, they will last a lifetime. Thanks to advancements in flooring and finish types, maintaining your hardwood floors is easier than ever, but it’s important to realize they are not impervious to spills, grit, and water.

Preventing Damage:

If you protect your floors from damages like scratches and moisture, you’ve won half the battle. Here are just a few easy things you can do to protect your hardwood investment:

1.     INSTALL FLOOR PROTECTOR PADS ON THE BOTTOM OF ALL FURNITURE LEGS

Install floor protector pads on the bottom of all furniture legs before they are placed on the wood floors.

2.     PLACE RUGS AT ALL ENTRANCES.

Cincinnati Kitchen Remodel Ideas and Photos Hardwood Flooring

Rugs trap grit and moisture before they have a chance to damage your floors. If your floors are new and were finished on site, be sure not to put down any rugs for at least 21 days after the finish was applied. Site applied finishes need time to cure properly before they are covered by rugs.

3.     SHAKE OUT AND THOROUGHLY CLEAN AND DRY RUGS WHEN THEY GET WET.

This will be most important during wet weather or in the winter when snow and ice come in with us from outside.

4.     BE CAUTIOUS WITH THE USE OF NON-SKID PADS UNDER YOUR RUGS.

Some of these can imprint their pattern on the finish of your wood floor.

5.     TRIM YOUR PET’S NAILS REGULARLY.

Our furry friends can do a lot of damage to our hardwood floors.

6.     WIPE UP ANY SPILLS IMMEDIATELY.

Wipe up any spills immediately so they don’t have a chance to get between boards and under the floor.

7.     USE PANS UNDER POTTED HOUSE PLANTS

Use pans under potted house plants and be careful not to spill water that can be trapped under the plant.

Regular Cleaning:

Sweeping, vacuuming, and/or dust mopping your floors regularly will keep grit and dirt from accumulating and being tracked over the floor, where it can cause scratches. Be sure to only use a vacuum that has a setting for wood floors.

If your floors come with a factory finish, consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for the proper cleaning products to use. Not all finishes are the same, even though your neighbor gets good results with one cleaning product, it may not be the right one for your floor.

Step away from the oil soap! Grandma may swear by it, but most warranties from finish manufacturers are voided by the use of oil soap cleaners. If you don’t know the exact finish you have on your floors, consult a local wood flooring professional to purchase a quality cleaning solution.

Beyond being a beautiful addition to your home, wood floors enhance your resale value. Following these guidelines will help you protect your investment, and enjoy the beauty of your wood floors for many years to come.

Have more questions about flooring, or ready to get started with your remodeling project? Give us a call today.

You might also like:
9 Steps to Prepare for Your Kitchen Remodel

SMART PEOPLE MAKE SMART CHOICES

Our goal with these pieces is to help you get the information you need to make educated choices for your home and family. If you’ve found this helpful, share it with others. If you have questions or would like to request other topics to be covered, please use the comment section below and we’ll make sure you get you the answers you need.