Many homeowners dream of having hardwood floors. Hardwood floors are durable, add a warm and earthy ambiance, and lend an ageless elegance to your interiors. But hardwood flooring can be an investment, and require a special kind of care. If you have hardwood floors, you need to know how to preserve your investment and keep them looking beautiful.
Here are some tips on how to care for and maintain your hardwood floors.
Clean your floors regularly
The cornerstone of hardwood floor care and maintenance is regular cleaning. Dirt, dust, and debris can scratch your floor’s surface, so be sure to sweep or vacuum your floors every day. Remember to use a soft-bristled broom or your vacuum’s floor brush attachment to avoid scratching the wood. A microfiber dust mop is also ideal for quick and gentle cleaning.
Avoid excess moisture
Unlike with laminate flooring, excess moisture on hardwood floors is always bad news. It can cause swelling, warping, and even mold growth. So when you spill something on your floor, promptly wipe it up using a dry or slightly damp cloth. Do not allow standing water to linger on your floor’s surface. It’s also a good idea to place mats or rugs on entryways and high-traffic areas to trap moisture and protect the wood from damage.
Use only the appropriate cleaning products
Less is more when it comes to cleaning your hardwood floors. Do not use cleaners with harsh chemicals, steam mops, or ammonia-based products. These things can damage or strip your floor’s protective finish and dull the natural shine of the wood. Instead, opt for mild, pH-neutral cleaners that are specifically formulated for hardwood floors, and make sure to dilute them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Additionally, apply these products sparingly using a soft damp cloth or mop.
Protective measures
When it comes to preserving the beauty and natural shine of your hardwood floors, preventative maintenance is key. Here are some preventative measures:
- You can place felt pads under the legs of your furniture to prevent scratches and dents.
- You can also place a carpet under your dining table and chairs since these are the furniture pieces that get moved around a lot.
- Remember not to drag heavy objects across your floor.
- If you have pets, trim their nails regularly to minimize scratches.
- Place rugs or runners on high-traffic areas of your floor to reduce wear and tear.
- Place protective mats or trays under your indoor planters to catch water and soil.
Routine maintenance
Hardwood floors also benefit from routine maintenance to keep them looking their best despite the wear and tear of day-to-day life. Consider buffing or recoating the floors with a protective finish to restore shine. You can also use wood filler or touch-up kits to conceal imperfections and deeper scratches or gouges and to maintain a smooth surface.
Professional care
Diligent at-home maintenance can go a long way in preserving your hardwood floors, but you may also need professional help from time to time. There are professional hardwood floor contractors and you can schedule regular inspections and maintenance with them. They will check your floors for any issues and will refinish or repair damaged areas. This will help extend the lifespan of your floors and ensure that they remain beautiful for generations.
Caring for hardwood floors can be a labor of love. Hardwood floors are an investment, and unlike other types of flooring, their beauty and elegance will last even hundreds of years if generations of homeowners give them proper care and maintenance.
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