Everyone loves a shiny hardwood floor, but there are a variety of daily activities that can cause wear and tear, such as moisture imbalances, pet claws, and common foot traffic. To keep that attractive sheen you love, it’s incredibly important to keep up regular, proper maintenance.
Wood has a tendency to expand and shrink depending on the moisture level, so if there are high levels of humidity in your home or your hardwood floors are consistently getting wet, they could be at risk for cupping which makes the sides of your flooring higher than the center. In order to prevent moisture imbalances, make sure to clean any spills immediately and keep your home’s temperature set between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
The color of your hardwood floors can also be compromised by pets or shoes. Dust and dirt can settle in the gaps or grain of your hardwood floor, which makes timely cleaning a necessity. It is recommended to dust or sweep daily and vacuum weekly to mitigate grime’s effect on your floors. It is also a good idea to refinish your hardwood floors every three to five years to counter gradual dirt build-up.
Most hardwood floors have a protective coating to prevent scratches, but you can take some of the pressure off your floor by using furniture pads for your chairs, tables, and couches. If you have any pets, you should also make a habit of trimming their nails to protect your floor’s integrity. Finally, make sure your hardwood floors will last by using hardwood floor cleaner once a month.