Hardwood floors are a popular choice for flooring, as they provide a durable protective surface and bring a natural touch of the outdoors into any interior space. While hardwood is sturdy, reliable, and low-maintenance, there are some tips you should keep in mind to extend the longevity and functionality of your floor. Here’s what you need to know. 

Do:

Trim your dog's nails.

A dog's nails can mar a hardwood floor, so have their nails trimmed every one to two months. Depending on the age, breed, and activity level of your dog, you may need to trim their nails more often. A good rule of thumb is to listen for tapping; if the dog's nails are tapping the hardwood with every step, it's time for a trim.

Keep floor mats by all exterior doors.

Mats placed just inside or outside exterior doors catch tiny bits of debris from the bottom of your shoes and help prevent scratching or damaging hardwood floor surfaces. Look for floor mats that provide a strong grip for the feet, as this creates enough resistance to be effective at removing dirt when moving the feet back and forth. Floor mats also reduce the number of particles that end up on the floor, making cleaning easier.

Don't:

Use hot water to clean.

Using hot water may seem like an easy way to cut through stubborn stains and restore the shine of the hardwood. However, the heat can cause the water to quickly absorb into the floor and damage it. Repeated use of hot water can also result in a duller overall appearance, as it eats away at the finish. Instead, clean hardwood with a soft, dry, microfiber dust mop, and only use oils or cleaning detergents approved by the flooring's manufacturer.

Let stains sit.

Clean up stains promptly. If left untended, spills can penetrate the hardwood and discolor the surface. Even if there is a spill on an area rug or floor mat, clean it up right away to avoid the possibility of it soaking through the fabric and into the flooring.

Carolina Wood Floors has been providing hardwood floors to the Winston-Salem, NC, area for more than 25 years. They offer new flooring installation and refinishing services for both residential and commercial clients. As a locally owned and operated business, they are committed to providing personalized service. Start reaping the benefits of hardwood by calling (336) 765-0680 or visiting their website.