Quality hardwood floors can add tremendous value to your home. If given proper love and care, these floors can last for over 100 years. There are simple things you can do to extend your floor’s lifespan and preserve its beauty.

Your Furniture

• Add floor pads under your heaviest pieces of furniture.
• Avoid “sticky” mats. Find pads and mats that utilize a gripping texture, rather than an adhesive.
• When moving furniture, pick it up fully instead of sliding it across the floor.

Your Feet

• Dirt and rocks from your shoes can be pretty abrasive. Be mindful of what you are tracking in, or consider taking your shoes off at the door, and asking guests to do the same.
• Remember that the uneven pressure of high heels can be strenuous on the wood.

(Keep in mind: quality floors are durable. You don’t need to stress about any of this. Having guests over won’t ruin your floors by any means, but it is the small things we do every day that have the greatest effect over time.)

Making Time for Occasional Maintenance

• First, it is valuable to ask your contractor for specific practices that are best for your unique floor.
• Never use 409, ammonia, Murphy’s Oil Soap, waxes, or Pledge as these can all damage real wood flooring.
• It’s best to “sweep” your floors with a dust mop instead of a broom with sharp bristles.
• Only use a lightly damp mop when mopping your floors.

Your Pets

• Not that you would – but don’t let “accidents” or stains sit for too long.
• Consider placing a mat underneath your pet’s water bowl.
• Keep their nails trimmed to prevent scratches across the floor.
• Give them treats regularly – just because you love them. 🙂

Let Us Know How We Can Help

We are passionate about great floors. If you have any questions, we are here to help (even if you’re on the other side of the country, we are happy to pay it forward). Don’t hesitate to reach out!