Hardwood Floor Care

If you spend the time and money and invest in hardwood floors, hardwood floor care is going to be very important to you. The proper care of hardwood floors will allow them to last a lifetime. Here are some tips for bona fide hardwood floor care.

Start by asking your installer to show you how to care for hardwood floors. The company may be able to recommend a hardwood floor care product that is right for the particular type of hardwood flooring that you have installed. Some home stores even sell hardwood floor care kits with all the tools you need, including cleaners and other tools for hardwood floor care and buffing.

Some companies, like Bruce hardwood, have floor care sections on their websites. There you can find hardwood floor care tips as well as answers to hardwood floor care FAQs.

Care for hardwood floors starts with every day maintenance. Sweep wood floors often with a soft broom, and vacuum a few times a week to remove dirt. An essential part of care for natural hardwood floors is to remove water right away since water can damage the floors. A nearly dry mop can be used for mopping.

Another part of hardwood care is prevention. Using carpet runners in high traffic areas can help prevent some wearing – just make sure to vacuum these frequently to avoid dirt settling down onto the wood. Avoid wearing shoes on the wood floor, and do not drag furniture and other heavy items. Having mats at the entrances to your home will prevent tracking of outside dirt and grime onto your floors. Using furniture pads under heavy furniture pieces and sliders on the bottoms of chairs will also help prevent dents and scratches.

If something does happen to your floor, make sure that you follow the floor’s manufacturer as to the best way to fix it. They may have tips or products to help with scratches and dents. Water damage can be difficult to repair, and may require you to need to replace that section of floor all together. Most hardwood floor care will include waxing and buffing or sanding and resealing to maintain its like-new look. Consult the manufacturer to find out the specific details.

Hardwood floor care, when properly done, can keep your floors looking great for as long as you own your home. With proper care, hardwood floors can last hundreds of years, making them by far the most cost effective flooring available.