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 Maintenance
of Hardwood floors is simple and requires less care than carpeting.
If a hardwood floor is maintained properly, its life can often
be greater than that of other types of flooring.
By following a few simple rules today you can
minimize the need for repair and refinishing tomorrow!
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Dirt, Grit, and sand
act like sandpaper to scratch, dent, and dull finishes
on hardwood floors. Place floor mats at entrances to
trap dirt.
Sweep, vacuum, or dust mop at least weekly.
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Sweeping- Brooms
with fine, exploded ends trap dust and grit effectively.
Vacuuming- Use
a brush attachment. Do not vacuum with beater bars because
this may dent or mar your floor's finish. Canister vacuums
with special bare floor attachments are the surest way to
get rid of all the dirt and dust.
Dust Mopping-
Use a dust mop with a 12-to-18-inch cotton head. Check with
the flooring manufacturer if a mop treatment is to be used.
Cleaning Urethane Finishes-
Simply mix 1/2 cup white vinegar to 1 gallon of warm water
and damp mop. Avoid using oil soaps or floor polishes. Remember...
It is not necessary to wax urethane finishes.
Cupping And Separating-
It is not uncommon to experience minor cupping and separating
of your hardwood floors. Hardwood flooring will change and
move with the seasons of your particular area and the interior
or exterior conditions of your home. You can help prevent
separating or cupping by the following: Install a layer of
polyethylene plastic-sheeting in crawl spaces with exposed
ground, check that all gutters and down spouts are drained
away from your home, and keep a relative consistent temperature
inside your home at all times.
Water- and other
standing liquids can damage a floor's finish. Standing water
can warp a finished floor. Wipe up spills, pet accidents,
and other mishaps when they happen. Never allow water or liquids
to stand on hardwood floors for extended periods.
Moisture And Water Damage-
If your hardwood floors are exposed to water or moisture,
dry the floors as soon as possible. Commercial water extraction,
dryers and dehumidifiers may be required after extended exposure
to moisture. Commonly, hardwood flooring requires at least
30 days drying time after extended exposure to water or moisture.
Contact our office for additional questions or to inquire
about moisture tests.
Furniture- should
be moved by lifting, not dragging. Felt contacts under furniture
legs are a good idea to help prevent scratches in routine
use.
Sunlight- can
cause discoloration over time. Close curtains and blinds or
add sheer drapes to protect a hardwood floor from intense
UV rays.
Shoes- with exposed
nails and heel supports will dent any floor.
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