If you have hardwood floors in your home, you understand how beautiful and timeless they are.  They add a level of sophistication to your home that is nearly impossible to replicate. Hardwood floors are a surefire way to elevate your space. But having hardwood floors means knowing how to properly care for them. 

Hardwood floors are very durable and can last for decades when cared for properly. We’ve put together a complete guide to teach you everything you need to know about caring for your hardwood floors. By using the right techniques and taking the correct steps, you’ll be able to enjoy your floors for decades to come while helping to preserve the natural beauty hardwood offers. 

Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning is the key to maintaining the appearance of your hardwood floors. For everyday cleaning and maintenance, all you need is a vacuum or broom to sweep up the dirt, dust, and any other debris that may be present. Hardwood flooring can scratch, so it’s best to use a soft bristle broom or use an attachment that is designed specifically for hardwood floors. 

After sweeping, if you need to mop the floors, make sure you use a well-wrung-out mop or a microfiber mop. Hardwood flooring can absorb moisture and can lead to damage, so it’s important to make sure you avoid excess water. A cleaner for hardwood or a mild soap solution can be used for a deeper clean. If something spills onto your floors, it’s important to wipe it up immediately to prevent stains or other damage. 

Preventing Scratches and Scuffs

Protecting your floors from scratches and scuffs is important to maintaining their appearance. There are simple steps you can take to make sure your floors are safe. Add doormats at every entrance. These will help trap dirt, grit, and moisture that would otherwise end up on your floors and cause scratches and other damage. 

Add rubber or felt pads under the legs of furniture- big or small, to keep the floors from being scratched when the furniture is moved. Avoid walking on your hardwood with heels or other shoes with abrasive soles. In high-traffic areas, consider using large area rugs or runners to add a layer of protection to your floors. Rugs will keep the floors underneath safe from almost everything. 

Minimizing Sun Damage

While everyone enjoys a bright and sunny home, your hardwood floors feel different. Sunlight can cause fading and discoloration over time. There are some simple ways to minimize sun damage. Use window coverings like blinds, curtains, or UV-protective films to reduce the amount of direct sunlight that reaches your floors. It’s also a good idea to routinely rearrange your furniture to prevent uneven fading.

You can also apply a protective coating, like a UV-resistant finish or sealant, to add another layer of protection against any potential sun damage.

Maintaining Humidity Levels

In Middle Georgia, we are all definitely familiar with humidity, but did you know the humidity levels can affect your hardwood floors? Wood is sensitive to changes in humidity levels, which can lead to floorboards expanding or contracting. These changes can cause gaps, warping, or even cracking of your floors. 

The simplest way to maintain proper humidity levels is to use a humidifier in dry seasons and a dehumidifier in humid seasons. Using a humidifier will add moisture to the air to prevent the wood from drying out, and using a dehumidifier will do the opposite. It will help reduce any excessive moisture that may be in the air. The ideal relative humidity level is between 35% and 55%. 

Professional Maintenance

Hardwood floors do require a little more work than other flooring options. Periodic professional maintenance can help prolong the life and beauty of your hardwood. Schedule a professional deep cleaning and refinishing as recommended by the manufacturer or a specialist like Flooring Specialist in Warner Robins. If any repairs are needed, they will be able to quickly and correctly fix the issue to prevent any further damage. 

Flooring Specialist for All Your Hardwood Needs

Proper care and maintenance are key to preserving the natural beauty and longevity of your hardwood floors. By following our tips, you can ensure your floors remain a stunning focal point of your home for years to come. With a little TLC, your floors will continue to provide a warm and inviting atmosphere in your living spaces. 

If you’re ready to upgrade to hardwood flooring or need some professional maintenance, stop by Flooring Specialist’s showroom today. At Flooring Specialist, you’ll get the best advice from the best flooring company in Warner Robins.