Solid wood flooring is beautiful, durable and timeless. It’s also expensive to install, so it’s important to keep the floors looking new for as long as possible. Follow these 12 tips to maintain your solid wood flooring and enjoy them in style!
1) Vacuuming: Using a vacuum cleaner with a non-beater bar will help reduce wear on your floor (as well as your vacuum). Remember that vacuuming should be done in an area not more than 5’x5′. This helps preserve the finish of the board while preventing dents from being created by repeated vacuuming over the same spot. Be sure not to use too much water when cleaning up spills or daily dirt – this can cause water damage and warping of the wood.
2) Staining: Solid hardwoods like maple, oak or walnut can be stained to enhance their natural beauty. Remember that a little goes a long way with stains – make sure you use enough product, so it penetrates deep into the pores in order to provide a smooth finish.
3) Waxing: We recommend that you use paste wax to get the best results. Wax can be applied with a brush, but if you’re looking for an easier way – try using an electric buffer!
4) Scratches: If your floor becomes scratched, you can try sanding the area with fine-grit sandpaper and then reapplying the finish. Remember to use even pressure when sanding – hardwood floors are sensitive!
5) Dents: If your floor has dents, try using a plunger or carpet tool to gently push the dent out from below. It is important to check the dents on the floor and regularly tame them at the right time.
6) Insects: If you have a problem with termites or other pests, make sure to contact the right professionals for assistance. You must regularly check if there are any issues regarding insects or pests in your home.
7) Wear: Wearing proper footwear is important to maintain the life of your floor. Avoid walking on hard surfaces such as concrete, asphalt or ceramic tile when possible and try not to wear heavy boots inside that could cause damage over time.
8) Leather: Leather is not a great choice for solid hardwood floors. This material can be heavy and cause indentations in the wood, which will dent more easily over time.
9) Slicing: Using a sharp knife is bad for solid hardwood floors. If you must cut something, use a saw or scissors instead.
10) Scuffs and Disks: Avoid scuffing your floor with furniture or appliances that have metal on them. If you’re using a disk and the surface of your hardwood starts to become stained, make sure to stop for at least one hour before proceeding. This will allow any excess oil from the blade to dry; otherwise, it can be absorbed by your floor.
Conclusion
So there you have it, some tips to ensure your solid wood flooring remains in its best condition for many years. If you follow these simple steps, then you will be well on the way to a happy household with beautiful and healthy floors! Remember – if an area is starting to show signs of wear or damage, don’t wait until it’s too late!
