4 Best Practices For Maintaining Your Hardwoods

Choosing hardwood flooring for your home is also the choice of making an investment into your home. Hardwood floors add beauty and longevity to your home and can increase its value as well.

However, hardwood floors require regular maintenance to fulfill the full potential of their life. If you can keep a few practices in mind, your wood floors can prove to be just as eye-catching as the day they were installed.

1. Know the type of finish that is on your wood floor. If you use the wrong solution to clean, they can be damaged since it is the finish you are cleaning, not the actual wood. You can find out from the manufacturer or finishing contractor which cleaning solutions are best. In most cases today, the top coat on wood floors is clear polyurethane. You should periodically use the appropriate cleaner to keep your wood floors shimmering. It will also help further protect them from wear and tear.

2. Use a soft-bristled broom or vacuum to remove the buildup of dust and other debris that can scratch your floors. Wood floors are especially susceptible to scratching and the last thing you want is a noticeable scratch on your beautiful new floor. Just be aware of the materials you use when cleaning.

3. Avoid using a wet mop, especially with harsh chemicals such as ammonia or vinegar. They can dull or damage the finish of your wood floors. If your floors have any cracks in them, water can penetrate them and further damage the inside of your wood.

4. You can also prevent damage to your floors by wiping up spills immediately and using mats at entrances around your home. Mats will help outside dirt, dust and sand from entering your home.

Hardwood floors provide an elegant and timeless centerpiece for your home. With the right approach, they can stay that way for years to come.