Many homeowners love hardwood flooring for its durability and timeless appeal. When you have brand-new wood floors installed in your home, you want to keep them looking polished and beautiful for years to come. Preserve its beauty and prolong its life span with the following guidelines.

Do:

Use rugs, mats, and furniture pads.

Put down some mats at the doorways of your house to reduce the amount of dirt and moisture that is tracked inside. Over time, these things might deteriorate the wood. Similarly, keep mats in areas with high foot traffic and direct sunlight for extra protection. To avoid scratching the hardwood, place felt pads under the legs of your furniture.

Sweep or vacuum regularly.

A quick sweep or dry mop of your hardwood flooring once a day keeps it spotless. Dirt or debris buildup can be as abrasive as sandpaper, eroding the finish and dulling the surface. Vacuum your wood floors once a week with the correct attachment to avoid scuffs, scratches, and gouges.

Don’t:

Let spills sit.

If you spill liquids on the floor, clean it up immediately. Even if the spill landed on the rug, the moisture could seep through the fabric and sit on the surface, causing unsightly stains or discoloration. Always clean spills with dry fabric, paper towel, microfiber cloth, or absorbent material. 

Soak the floor with water or cleaning solutions.

Moisture is the enemy of hardwood flooring, so refrain from using a soaking-wet mop, steam cleaner, or a bucket of sudsy water when cleaning. Too much water can warp the wood and remove its finish. Since some cleaning solutions are not compatible with certain types of finishes, be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for floor cleaners first. 

Follow the above tips to keep your hardwood flooring in excellent condition. For top-notch flooring installations, rely on the professionals at Family Flooring in Chesapeake, VA. Since 2004, they’ve offered reliable services and premium-quality materials, from hardwood to luxury vinyl flooring. Call (757) 548-4545 for estimates, or visit their website today.