London:

Nationwide:

Floor Polishing Service
25,000+
Floors Restored
Residential Sanding Service
27 Years Experience
Floor Renovation Service
Wood Flooring Association Certified

Wood Flooring: The Essential DOs and DON’Ts

Posted on June 8, 2023

Floor Sanding Blogs

Essential Wood Flooring: The DOs and DON’Ts

Wood flooring is a beautiful and timeless addition to any home. It adds warmth, style, and value, making it a popular choice for homeowners. However, like any other home feature, wood flooring requires appropriate care and maintenance to keep its charm. While some practices can enhance the longevity and appearance of your wood floors, others may cause damage and reduce their lifespan. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the DOs and DON’Ts of wood flooring, providing a comprehensive guide on the best practices for maintaining the beauty and functionality of your wood floors. Wood Flooring

DOs of Wood Flooring

  1. Do Use Protective Mats and Rugs: Place mats at entrances and rugs in high-traffic areas to protect your wood floors from dirt, grit, and moisture that can scratch or damage the finish.
  2. Do Clean Regularly: Regular cleaning helps to maintain the look and extend the life of your wood floors. Dry mop or vacuum your floors at least once a week to remove dirt and dust. Avoid using vacuums with beater bars, as they can scratch the finish.
  3. Do Use the Right Cleaning Products: Always use cleaning products recommended by your flooring manufacturer. Avoid using generic cleaning products, as they may contain harsh chemicals that can damage the wood and its finish.
  4. Control Humidity Levels: Wood floors react to changes in humidity, expanding in high humidity and contracting in low humidity, which can lead to gaps or warping. Aim to keep your home’s humidity levels between 30% and 50%.
  5. Do attend to spills promptly. Water and other liquids can seep into the wood, causing stains or warping. Wipe up spills as soon as they occur.
  6. Do use furniture pads. Furniture can scratch or dent your wood floors. Protect your floors by using felt pads under furniture legs and avoiding dragging furniture across the floor.
  7. Refinish when necessary. Over time, wear and tear can dull the finish of your wood floors. Refinishing can restore the look of your floors and give them a new lease on life.
Furniture Pads Wood Floor Protection Techniques Bedroom Hardwood Flooring

Don’ts of Wood Flooring

  1. Don’t Use Water or Steam Mops: Water is one of the biggest enemies of wood floors. Never wet or use a steam mop on your wood floors, as this can cause water damage, including warping and discoloration.
  2. Don’t Use Wax or Oil Soaps: Wax and oil soaps can dull the finish of your wood floors and create a residue that is difficult to remove. These substances can also complicate the refinishing process.
  3. Don’t wear high heels or cleats. These types of footwear can dent or scratch your wood floors. Avoid wearing high heels, cleats, or damaged shoes on your wood floors.
  4. Don’t Ignore Scratches or Damages: If you notice any scratches or damages, address them as soon as possible. Minor issues can become significant problems if not attended to promptly.
  5. Don’t forget to trim your pet’s nails. Pet nails can scratch the finish of your wood floors. Keep your pet’s nails trimmed to prevent this type of damage.
  6. Don’t Neglect Routine Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including sweeping or vacuuming and proper cleaning, is crucial for keeping your wood floors in tip-top condition.

Conclusion

Wood flooring is a worthwhile investment that enhances your home’s aesthetic appeal and value. However, retaining its allure over time requires the proper care and maintenance. By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure the longevity and attractiveness of your wood floors for many years. Remember, the key to maintaining the beauty of your wood flooring lies in routine care, immediate attention to spills or damage, and appropriate cleaning products and methods. Additionally, being mindful of the potential causes of damage, such as humidity, footwear, and furniture movement, can go a long way in preserving the quality and aesthetics of your floors.
Even if your wood flooring shows signs of wear and tear, don’t despair. Proper restoration techniques, such as sanding and refinishing, can return your floors to their original glory. Always consult a professional if you’re unsure about the best action for maintaining your wood floors or addressing significant damage. There’s no denying the charm that wood flooring adds to a home. It brings a sense of warmth, sophistication, and timeless appeal that few other flooring types can match. With the proper care and attention, it’s an investment that will continue to reward you with its beauty and durability for many years to come. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of the best practices for caring for wood floors, but remember, it’s equally important to follow any specific guidance provided by your flooring manufacturer or installer. They will have the best insight into the specific needs of your particular flooring type and finish. In conclusion, with the DOs and DON’Ts at your fingertips, you can feel confident in navigating the world of wood floor maintenance, ensuring a stunning and long-lasting finish. Be it for a new installation or a unique original feature in a period property, caring for your wood flooring need not be a daunting task. With a bit of care, consideration, and regular maintenance, your wood floors will continue to be a beautiful and valued home feature. Enjoy the journey and the rewards of well-maintained wood flooring. Happy flooring!

Some Useful Links:

More from our Blog:

Mastering Wood Stripping & Sanding: Your Comprehensive Guide The top 6 places to buy Wood flooring in the UK | Mr Sander® Step-by-Step Guide to Sanding Your Wood Floor | Restore Your Floor’s Beauty Unraveling the Art of Fine Wood Floor Sanding | Detailed Guide  
Four cheerful customers holding up signs with the Mr. Sander logo and the text 'We give Mr. Sander 5 stars', showing their satisfaction with the service provided.
Floor Sanding Service

Sanding

We provide virtually dust-free sanding with our continuous belt machinery with mobile extraction units, giving you a safer environment for your family.

Floor Oiling Service

Oiling

This organic finish not only adds beauty to your home but also has exceptional water-repellent characteristics, making it easier to clean and maintain.

Floor Waxing Service

Waxing

This natural floor finish offers the softest and most mellow appearance – and leaves your floor able to breath.

Floor Buffing Service

Buffing

Using soft buffing machines (and hand-polishing where required) will bring a wonderful sheen to your newly-finished floor.

Wood Floor Repairs

Repairs

We offer a full assessment of your wooden floors to determine what repairs are needed to provide the perfect working surface for the later stages of sanding, staining and sealing. 

Floor Restoration Service

Restoration

We offer a comprehensive restoration process designed to address floors that are improperly fitted or damaged over time through wear and tear.

Request a fixed price quote for your wood floor restoration now

Simply enter your postcode below to get started.