Hardwood Floor Care and Maintenance
Hardwood comes in many different colors, finishes and varieties. Hardwood flooring is a great investment and is an excellent idea to spicen up your interior. Nowadays it's one of the most popular choices for flooring. However, most people do not know how to properly clean and maintain their hardwood and can damage their floors with improper maintenance. Harsh chemicals can damage the surface of the hardwood by scratching or scuffing the finish and the floor's sheen. If damaged, the only solution may be to strip the floor and refinish it. Refinishing is very time consuming and costly. To avoid having to redo your floors, follow some basic cleaning guidelines and keep up with regular maintenance. Consistent cleaning procedures will insure your hardwood floors maintain their good looks and durability for life.
Regular daily cleaning is the key to maintaining hardwood floors. Dirt is tracked on the floor on a constant basis by people living in the home and even pets, so daily sweeping and mopping is vital. Be sure to select a broom with soft bristles since some broom's bristles may be too rough and could mar the surface of the hardwood. A vacuum with a brush or felt head can also be used. Mop with a soft sponge mop and use a solution of mild soap and water. Do not use any cleaning agents that contain ammonia, bleach, oil, wax, acrylic, or any harsh or acidic detergents. Other daily maintenance tips include wiping up spills immediately in order to keep moisture from damaging the floor. Place runner s and area rugs made of breathable material in high-traffic areas such as in front of the kitchen sink or down hallways. Also use felt protective pads on the legs and bottoms of all furniture. A humidifier or dehumidifier can be installed in order to keep the home's relative humidity between 30% and 50%. This will reduce the hardwood's tendency to crack.
For monthly maintenance, there are floor treatment products available on the market that are designed to add shine and condition the hardwood at the same time. These products are not meant for daily or even weekly use but are appropriate to use about once a month. Be sure to read the product labels thoroughly and follow the specific directions. Treating your hardwood floors with a conditioning product once a month will keep the floor in tiptop shape.
Sealing the floor is something that should be done annually. Floor sealer products are also readily available on the market. Again, it is important to read the labels completely and follow the directions. Work in small areas and go slowly to insure even coverage. Floor sealers will restore the look of the hardwood and improve the floor's overall finish.
Hardwood floors are a lifetime investment that will add value to a home. Proper care and maintenance can enhance the beauty and extend the life your investment. A flooring professional should be consulted if there is ever any question about what cleaning product to use or how best to handle a stain or repair.