Homeowners often choose hardwood floors for their durability and timeless appeal. A high-quality wood floor can last for decades with basic maintenance and occasional hardwood floor refinishing. Pet owners, however, should take extra precautions to prevent excess wear and damage, keeping floors beautiful for years to come. 

A Pet Owner’s Guide to Protecting Hardwood Floors 

1. Keep Nails Short

Wood floors are susceptible to damage from your pets’ sharp nails. Dogs can cause scratches and wear to a floor’s finish as they jump off furniture or run down hallways. Keeping pet nails trimmed and filed will protect your hardwood. Applying nail wax or even plastic caps to a pets’ claws can also keep them from damaging the floor.

2. Cover High Traffic Areas

You might be reluctant to cover your wood floors with carpet or rugs, but doing so in high-traffic areas—such as the path from the door to the water dish—can help reduce damage. The right rug can also be an attractive accent, helping to complement your home’s decor and aesthetic. 

3. Clean Messes Quickly

If your furry friend has an accident or knocks over the water dish, clean up the mess as quickly as possible. Leaving liquids on wood floors can cause staining that’s difficult to remove without hardwood floor refinishing services. Place absorbent mats underneath pet dishes and litter boxes to catch any spills or drips. 

4. Invest in a Pet Bed 

Giving your pet a comfortable bed to sleep on is not only better for their joints and overall well-being, but it also protects your floors. If your furry friend regularly sleeps in the same spot, the floor finish can wear away over time. This will eventually call for hardwood floor refinishing to restore a more even appearance. 

5. Choose Soft Toys

When choosing toys for your pets, look for soft options made from fabric or rubber. Hard bones and chew-toys can cause dings and scratches when they’re dropped or thrown. Save the harder toys for carpeted areas or outdoor playtime.

Be mindful of the items that are placed on coffee and end tables. It’s common for playful animals to bump into tables and accidentally knock decorations to the floor. Depending on the object, it could not only break but could also damage and knick your hardwood flooring. 

 

If your pets have left the floors of your home scratched and worn, turn to the hardwood floor refinishing contractors at Old Reliable Floor Co. This team of experts has been serving homeowners throughout the Cincinnati, OH, area since 1949. They are well-versed in refinishing, staining, and restoring hardwood floors. These professionals can restore your floors to their original glory or change the stain to match newly renovated homes or updated styles. Call (513) 922-5598 for a consultation, or learn more about their services online.