Hardwood floors are an investment with a return that can last decades, with proper maintenance. Proper care includes preventing damage and knowing what maintenance measures are required daily, weekly, monthly, and beyond.
Preventing Damage
Your maintenance routine can be simplified with good preventive measures. Use area rugs near doorways and in areas that are prone to spills, like near the sink or food preparation areas. Clean up spills as quickly as possible, and try to keep your home’s humidity levels and temperature as steady as possible. Furniture pads should also be used to prevent scratches.
Daily Care
Daily sweeping or dust mopping will keep dust and dirt from settling into the hardwood grain and between floorboards. Removing debris daily will reduce the risk of scratches and make other maintenance procedures easier as well.
Weekly Cleaning
Vacuuming weekly is an easy, yet effective way of increasing the hardwood floor’s longevity. Be sure to use a vacuum without a beater bar or make sure the beater bar doesn’t spin while vacuuming.
Monthly Maintenance
For a periodic, deeper clean, be sure to mop monthly with cleaner recommended by the floor manufacturer or a flooring store. Wet mopping should be avoided, so make sure the mop is slightly damp and that you don’t put too much cleaning liquid on the floor.
3-5 Years
It’s normal for hardwood floors to start looking a little dull after a few years, even with proper maintenance. It’s a good idea to have a new coat of finish applied to hardwood every 3-5 years. This maintenance coat keeps the floor looking fantastic and helps protect it as well.
Decades Care
Most hardwood floors can last decades before needing to be sanded and refinished. If your floor has deep scratches or other damage, it’s probably best to start fresh with sanding and refinishing.
If you’re considering installing a new hardwood floor, Flooring Pros can help you choose the best option, and answer questions about maintenance and care as well.