How to Care for Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors are a beautiful investment that will add so much more to your home than a polished walking surface. Known for their durability, versatility and eye-catching colors, hardwood floors have long been a popular addition to homes of many different styles. Solid hardwood can be pricey, but they should be considered an investment in your home as they will surely increase the resale value of your property.

Hardwood floors are exactly as they sound - made from hard woods. As such, they will withstand the regular usage that soft woods cannot. That doesn’t mean they will take a beating, however. They require special maintenance in order to keep them looking beautiful for years, and in fact, with the right care hardwood floors have been known to last centuries.

Care to Prevent Surface Blemishes

Don’t let dirt, dust or sand settle onto the floor for long. As it builds up, walking on the dirt or grit will scratch the surface or dull the shine. Pet hair and other fibers are strong enough to do the same. Water spills should be cleaned up immediately with a soft cloth or else warping of the wood might occur. When moving furniture, use felt pads underneath pressure points, or pick up the furniture instead of pushing/pulling it around to avoid scratches and dents. Also use curtains, blinds, or sheers to diffuse direct sunlight, which can bleach your floors in the long term.

Regular Maintenance

Maintaining your hardwood floors is easier than you might think. There is no need for yearly sanding and refinishing, though a regular sealing treatment is a good idea. For weekly cleaning, choose a solution made for hardwood floors, not laminate flooring. This is very important as not to damage the surface of the wood or coat of sealant already in place. For rooms that are not frequented, a simple dry mopping to remove dust may be sufficient. A soft terry cloth is ideal for this job; adding a hardwood spray will enhance shine and add protection.

Special Considerations

Hardwood floors are a pleasing addition to any home, but still they are not practical for many home environments. Flooring of this type is not recommended where humidity is a problem, or in rooms with constant moisture. In addition, homes with many pets may find it difficult to keep the floor free of scratches and stains that can result from pet nails, dander or bathrooms accidents. High heels, sports shoes and rough indoor play can also damage or slightly mar the surface of hardwood floors, so be sure to keep these things in mind when deciding what type of flooring surface best suits your household.