Hardwood Floors
- Sweep regularly to remove dirt and grit that can act like sandpaper on your new
floors. A vacuum can be used as long as it doesn’t have a beater bar or
abrasive/hard wheels.
- Use throw rugs (non-rubber backings) outside doorways to help prevent grit,
dirt and other debris from being tracked onto your wood floors. This will prevent scratching and dulling of the finish.
- Considering that most species of hardwood change in color with exposure to
sunlight, it may be wise to periodically rearrange furniture and rugs to help keep a uniform appearance. Additionally, be sure to put up window treatments (blinds,
curtains, etc…) as stains can dull over the years with too much light exposure.
- Do not wet-mop a wood floor . Water can dull the finish, damage the wood and
leave a discoloring residue. Follow manufacturer directions. We recommend
using the Bona-X system for urethane finishes. Popular oil-soaps and miracle
as-seen-on-T.V. products are typically some of the worst products you can use.
- Wipe up spills immediately with a slightly dampened towel, followed by a dry,
clean one to blot up any excess moisture.
- Put felt protectors or fabric-faced glides under the legs of furniture (especially
dining room table chairs or barstools) to help prevent scuffing and scratching.
- Avoid walking on your wood floors with cleats, sports shoes and high heels as
they can dent and scratch hardwood, especially if they are not in good repair.
- When moving heavy furniture, do not slide it on wood flooring. It is best to pick
up the furniture completely to protect the wood flooring.
- Whenever possible, keep pets off of your hardwood floor. “Accidents” and
untrimmed nails are some of the biggest threats to the lasting beauty of your
new floors.
- Hardwood floors are VERY sensitive to environmental changes. Try to keep
the temperature and humidity levels constant in your home. This will help keep
seasonal gapping to a minimum.
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