The rich, lustrous appearance of hardwood flooring transforms drab rooms into stunning spaces. With regular maintenance, the durable material will last for decades. If you have dogs or cats, keeping the floors damage-free may require a bit more attention. Thankfully, there are simple steps you can take to protect these exquisite surfaces from your furry friends. Here are several to keep in mind.

5 Tips for Protecting Hardwood Floors From Pets

1. Use Rugs & Runners

Place rugs and runners in areas where your four-legged family members often walk, run, or lounge. These include entrances, hallways, and dining rooms. You can easily vacuum up any dirt and fur on these carpeted surfaces while safeguarding your hardwood flooring.

2. Keep Nails Trimmed

Get in the habit of keeping your pet’s nails trimmed. This will reduce the chances of scratches and dings on your hardwood floors. If you need help, have a groomer or veterinarian do the task. If you’d rather not declaw your pet, try soft nail caps instead. 

3. Select a Harder Wood

Talk to a hardwood flooring specialist about options that may stand up to pet traffic better. Some woods to consider include cherry, hickory, mahogany, maple and oak. These woods have a stronger resistance to scratches and stains. Ask the flooring specialist about applying a urethane coating, which can add an extra layer of protection.

4. Clean Up Accidents Immediately

Urine and waste can cause permanent stains on hardwood floors. Clean up accidents right away and dry them promptly to also prevent moisture spots and warping. Be sure to select cleaning products that are designed for hardwood floors. Avoid those that contain bleach, ammonia, and other acid-based chemicals, as these can also cause discoloration. 

5. Use Gates

If your hardwood flooring is limited to one area of your home, section off rooms by putting up pet gates. Ensure they’re stable enough to keep larger canines from knocking them down. You may need a special gate designed for cats, as they tend to be craftier about getting around obstacles. Create play and feeding areas away from hardwood floors so your pets won’t be tempted to enter these spaces.

With a few easy modifications, you can still enjoy your furry companions while protecting your home’s hardwood floors. For more than 25 years, Rochester Hardwood Floor in Rochester, NY, has been Monroe County’s go-to resource for expert installation and maintenance services. This team of licensed and professional technicians has the experience and equipment to get the job done right the first time. If you’ve always wanted hardwood flooring in your home or business, call (585) 377-7800 for a friendly consultation. Visit the website for details on the full suite of products and services.