Hardwood Maintenance: Tips To Extend The Life Of Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors are a timeless and elegant choice for any home, offering natural beauty and durability. However, to keep your hardwood floors looking their best and ensure they last for decades, proper hardwood floor maintenance is essential. In this blog post, we'll cover the best way to clean hardwood floors and expert hardwood floor care tips to help you preserve their beauty and longevity.

Consistent cleaning is the most important step in maintaining hardwood floors. Here’s how to keep your floors clean without damage:

Dust and Sweep Daily:

Dust and dirt can act like sandpaper, scratching and dulling the finish of your hardwood floors. To prevent this, use a soft-bristle broom or a microfiber dust mop to sweep daily. Microfiber mops for hardwood floors are especially effective at trapping dust without scratching the surface.

Vacuum Weekly:

Vacuuming once a week helps remove dirt and debris from hard-to-reach areas like between floorboards. Use a vacuum with a hardwood floor attachment to avoid scratching. Avoid vacuums with beater bars, as these can damage the finish.

Mop with Care:

When it’s time to mop, avoid excessive water, as hardwood is sensitive to moisture. Use a damp microfiber mop and a hardwood floor cleaner designed for wood surfaces. Avoid using harsh chemicals or steam mops, which can strip the finish.

Spot Clean Spills Immediately:

Spills should be cleaned up right away to prevent water damage to hardwood floors . Use a soft, dry cloth to blot spills, then clean with a damp cloth if necessary. Avoid letting water or liquids sit on the floor.

Prevention is key to maintaining the integrity of your solid or engineered hardwood floors . Follow these hardwood floor protection tips:

Use Rugs and Mats:

Place area rugs for hardwood floors at entrances to trap dirt and moisture before they reach your floors. Use rug pads that are safe for hardwood floors to prevent slipping and protect the finish.

Add Furniture Pads:

Furniture legs can scratch and dent hardwood floors over time. Attach felt furniture pads for hardwood floors to the bottom of all furniture legs to prevent damage.

Control Humidity Levels:

Hardwood floors expand and contract with humidity changes. Keep indoor humidity between 30% and 50% using a humidifier in winter and a dehumidifier in summer to prevent warping or gaps.

Avoid High Heels and Pet Claws:

High heels can dent hardwood floors, and pet claws can leave scratches. Encourage guests to remove their shoes and keep pet nails trimmed.

Even with regular care, your hardwood floors will benefit from occasional deep cleaning and refinishing to restore their original beauty:

Deep Cleaning:

Every few months, give your floors a deeper clean by using a hardwood-specific cleaner. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and make sure to use a cleaner that’s compatible with your floor’s finish. This will remove any built-up grime and refresh the appearance of your floors.

Refinishing Hardwood Floors:

If your floors look dull or have visible scratches, it may be time for hardwood floor refinishing . This involves sanding down the top layer and applying a new finish. Typically, hardwood floors need refinishing every 7-10 years .

Different seasons bring different challenges for hardwood floor maintenance. Here’s how to care for your floors throughout the year:

Winter:

Winter months can bring snow, salt, and moisture into your home, which can damage hardwood floors.

• Use extra rugs at entryways to protect against snow and salt.

• Wipe up moisture immediately to prevent hardwood floor water damage .

• Use a humidifier to prevent excessive drying and cracking.

Summer:

In summer, increased humidity can cause hardwood to expand.

• Use air conditioning or a dehumidifier.

• Check for signs of warping and address them promptly.

Spring and Fall:

• Perform a deep clean for hardwood floors .

• Inspect for damage and consider applying a protective coat of wax or polish if recommended.

Dos:

• Do use a damp mop, not a wet one. Excess water can seep into the wood and cause damage.
• Do trim your pets’ nails regularly to avoid scratches.
• Do place protective mats under heavy furniture and in high-traffic areas.

Don’ts:

• Don’t use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on hardwood floors.
• Don’t drag furniture across the floor—always lift it to move it.
• Don’t ignore spills—clean them up immediately to prevent stains and water damage.

Maintaining hardwood floors requires effort, but the results are worth it. By incorporating hardwood floor cleaning tips , preventing damage, and adapting to seasonal changes, you can extend the life of your hardwood floors and keep them looking stunning for years to come.

If you're in the Waterloo area and need advice on hardwood floor maintenance or quality flooring products , visit Advanced Flooring for expert recommendations and a wide selection of flooring materials.