Hardwood floors are a beautiful and durable choice for any home, but they require proper care to maintain their appearance and longevity. With the right floor care routine, you can keep your hardwood flooring looking pristine throughout the year. From regular cleaning to seasonal maintenance, here’s how to protect your investment and extend the life of your floors.
Daily and Weekly Hardwood Floor Care
Keeping up with regular cleaning is essential to prevent particles and dirt from scratching your floors. Sweep or dust daily to remove small particles, and use a vacuum with a hardwood floor setting to reach corners and edges. For a deeper clean, damp mop with a manufacturer-approved hardwood floor cleaner. Avoid excessive water, as moisture can cause damage over time.
Protecting Floors from Seasonal Changes
Hardwood floors expand and contract with temperature and humidity fluctuations. To maintain stability, use a humidifier in winter to prevent excessive drying and cracking, and a dehumidifier in summer to reduce moisture absorption. Keeping your indoor humidity levels between 35-55% helps preserve your flooring.
Preventing Scratches and Damage
Furniture, pet nails, and high foot traffic can lead to surface scratches and wear. Place felt pads under furniture legs, trim pet nails regularly, and use rugs in high-traffic areas to minimize damage. Avoid wearing high heels or heavy boots on hardwood floors, as they can create dents and scratches.
Dealing with Spills and Stains
Spills should be cleaned up immediately to prevent staining and warping. Use a soft towel for wiping spills and a hardwood-approved cleaner for tougher stains. Never use harsh chemicals or Scrubbers with sharp objects, as they can strip the protective finish of your flooring.
Long-Term Maintenance for Lasting Beauty
Even with the best flooring care routine, hardwood floors will experience natural wear over time. Periodic refinishing can restore their original beauty by sanding away scratches and applying a fresh protective finish. If your floors start to look dull or worn, professional refinishing may be the best solution.
Trust SHANKS CUSTOM HARDWOOD INC. for Expert Floor Care
Maintaining hardwood floors requires attention to detail and proper care techniques. At SHANKS CUSTOM HARDWOOD INC., we specialize in professional floor refinishing, repair, and maintenance services. Whether you need expert advice or a complete refinishing job, our team is here to help keep your floors in top condition year-round. Contact us today to learn more about our hardwood flooring services!