No other flooring material can provide your home with the same level of beauty, sophistication, and value as wood. When properly cared for, hardwood flooring can also last for decades. As such, it’s important to learn the right maintenance techniques for preserving your investment and preventing unnecessary wear and tear. The following tips will help you protect the structural integrity of your floors and keep them looking as new as the day they were installed.

Do: 

Clean regularly.

It’s essential to sweep and vacuum hardwood flooring often to avoid dirt, dust, and debris buildup. These are abrasive materials that act like sandpaper when walked over, which can scratch the wood. You should also consider having your floors polished periodically to help bring back their luster once the finish starts to dull. 

Take preventative steps against damage. 

Wood floors can easily scratch, crack, or discolor if you don’t take preventative measures. Thus, it’s wise to put down mats at your entryways to collect dirt, rocks, and other substances that frequently get tracked in on the bottom of shoes.

Since cats and dogs run around the house, they could scratch up the floor during their daytime adventures. Trim their nails to prevent unwanted scratches. Additionally, place pads under heavy furniture and minimize fading by utilizing window treatments to limit sunlight exposure. 

Don’t: 

Use the wrong cleaning tools and products.

Make sure you only use gentle tools and cleaners specifically approved for hardwood flooring. Steer clear of regular soap, detergent, water, wax, vinegar, and ammonia-based products to prevent damage, stains, and dullness. Only clean with a soft cloth, mop, or broom to avoid scratching the wood. Don’t saturate the floor with a cleaning solution or use a steam mop, as this can cause the finish to bubble up.

Ignore spills.

Liquids can result in long-term damage if they’re allowed to sit on wood floors for long periods. Wipe up spills right away, so moisture doesn’t get between the planks and cause warping. You also want to address pet accidents immediately because the acid in urine can break through the protective layer in floors and leave unsightly stains.

Whether you’re interested in installing hardwood flooring or restoring the floors you currently have, turn to the professionals at General’s Hardwood Flooring in Webster, NY. Backed by nearly 20 years of industry experience, they’ve earned a solid reputation for providing superior craftsmanship on every job. They’re qualified to work with all types of wood and can help determine which material is most suitable for your lifestyle and budget. Call (585) 303-5704 to discuss your project or visit their website for more information on the services they offer.