Hardwood Care and Maintenance
After the tools are packed, the furniture is back in place, and the crew is out the door—what’s next? Other than enjoying your beautifully updated space, it’s time for a deep clean to protect your investment. Proper maintenance ensures your hardwood flooring lasts for years while keeping it looking fresh and beautiful.
Follow these best practices to maintain the durability and natural beauty of your hardwood floors.
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1. Sweep or vacuum regularly to prevent wear
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Daily dust, dirt, and small debris can act like sandpaper, wearing down your hardwood floors over time. To keep them in top condition, use a dust mop, soft-bristle broom, or vacuum with suction only—avoid beater bars, as they can scratch the surface.
Placing area rugs or doormats at entryways helps trap dirt, sand, and moisture before they reach your hardwood flooring. Regular maintenance not only enhances the look of your floors but also prevents premature wear.
2. Protect against moisture and spills.
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Excessive moisture is one of the biggest threats to hardwood flooring. Never allow water or spills to sit on the floor. Always blot up liquids immediately using a dry cloth or paper towel.
Wet mopping should be avoided, as standing water can warp hardwood. Placing protective mats in high-use areas, such as kitchens and entryways, can help reduce moisture exposure. Maintaining humidity levels between 35-55% helps prevent hardwood floors from expanding or contracting.
It’s important to note that damage caused by flooding, broken pipes, or excessive moisture exposure is not covered under most product warranties.
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3. Avoid harsh cleaning machines and products.
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Many store-bought floor cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can damage finishes over time. Similarly, steam cleaners and power scrubbers can be too aggressive, causing warping or staining.
Always use a manufacturer-recommended cleaner for hardwood flooring. Lightly spray the cleaner onto a cloth or damp mop rather than applying it directly to the floor. Avoid steam mops, spray mops, and power cleaners, as excessive moisture and heat can cause long-term damage.
For carpet flooring, occasional deep cleaning is beneficial, but excessive soaking should be avoided, as it can lead to mold and odors.
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4. Maintain a stable indoor temperature.
Hardwood flooring is sensitive to temperature and humidity changes. Fluctuations can cause expansion, contraction, and even cracking. To prevent these issues, maintain indoor temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and keep humidity levels between 35-55%.
Using a humidifier in dry months and a dehumidifier in humid seasons can help maintain stable conditions. Ensuring good ventilation in basements and high-moisture areas can also help prevent mold or warping. Flooring issues caused by improper environmental conditions are not covered by warranties, making proper climate control essential for long-term durability.
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5. Avoid letting sharp or pointed objects come into contact with the floor surface.
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Even the most durable flooring options can get scratched or dented over time, especially in high-traffic areas. Using felt pads on the legs of furniture, chairs, and heavy items helps prevent surface damage.
Dragging furniture should always be avoided—items should be lifted and carried instead. Sharp or pointed objects, such as high heels, pet claws, and heavy appliances, can also cause dents and scratches. Regularly checking and replacing felt pads or floor protectors can further reduce wear and tear over time.
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Enjoy your new floors but do keep these tips in mind to protect your new investment.
