Hardwood Floor Maintenance
1) Don’t Over Clean
Cleaning up spills right away is important. Daily sweeping or vacuuming is also good – this removes grit that can scratch the finish Wet mopping too often can strip oils or leave a soap residue on the flooring and even damage the finish itself.
2) Use the Right Cleaner for the Job
It’s tempting to use cheap and widely available general-purpose cleaners – like water and vinegar or oil soaps – on your floor. Acidic cleaners damage the finish, and many soaps or detergents can leave a residue that will build up and attract even more dirt. If you know what type of finish you have on your floor, your flooring retailer can assist you find it. If you don’t know what type of finish you have, consult with a flooring retailer to help identify which is best.
3) Maintain Your Finish
Most floors are finished with either urethane (water- or oil-based) or natural oils. Urethane floors are very durable, and routine sweeping, vacuuming, and stain removal may be all you need to do. Naturally oiled floors need the same care, but they can also be refreshed with maintenance oil. This will restore some of the sheen while blending in nicely with the existing finish. It’s particularly important in high traffic areas such as kitchens and hallways, or areas exposed to direct sunlight
4) Protect your floor
Maintaining surface protection such as felt pads under chairs and furniture will reduce the risk of scratching the finish surface. Mats at entry ways and in front of sinks can help catch moisture or debris. Appliance tracks can be used to allow safe movement of appliances for cleaning or repairs.
If you have more questions about how to keep your hardwood floors looking their best for longer, our experts have over 100 years of combined experience in the home finishing industry. Contact our team at The Finishing Store & Millworks or visit us in Victoria or Nanaimo for more tips and advice on hardwood floors.
