It can be a bit overwhelming to take it all in for people who have never been exposed to hardwood floors. Providing the regular care, maintenance, and preventative applications to ensure the overall condition, longevity and aesthetics can be overwhelming. When you are first charged with caring for solid hardwood flooring, there are some primary basics you should know that we at Carpet Dry Tech would like to relate them for you today. By design, solid hardwood floors are made to be thicker and more durable. Solid hardwood floors can be unfinished, or factory finished. The unfinished wood requires the sanding and finishing following the installation, which are good traits for those looking for custom designs. Keep in mind that after the hardwood floor is installed, there is a process and walking on the hardwood floor is not recommended until it completed from installation, to sanding, to finishing. Whether you opt for unfinished, or factory finished, hardwood floors is well worth the investment with the benefits they offer.
Do Hardwood Floors Require Routine Maintenance?
1) As often as possible, preferably daily, remove any surface dust and debris by either sweeping with a soft bristled broom, a dust mop, or a vacuum that features a “bare floor” or “hardwood floor” setting. This keeps the dust and dirt from scuffing the floors as you are walking when it is done regularly. From the dirt on the floors, combined with everyday walking creates friction.
2) Direct sunlight can cause the wood to dry out and the color to fade. During the times when direct sunlight hits the hardwood flooring, ensure the windows are covered with UV film, blinds, or curtains.
3) Area rugs and runners are ideal for entry points and areas where there is a lot of foot traffic in an effort to offer the hardwood floor more protection from potential particulates that can contribute to blemishes or damage.
Protect Hardwood Flooring from Damage
1) Your pet’s nails can easily scratch the floor and they can track in dirt and mud. To minimize the negative impact, keep your pet’s nails trimmed and their paws cleaned.
2) To avoid shrinkage, humidity levels should be kept between 35% and 55%. To maintain the humidity balance, use humidifiers.
3) In order to wipe up spills, use a clean, dry microfiber cloth immediately. When water is left on the surface it can seep into the gaps and cause water damage or warping.
4) Avoid walking on the wood floors with abrasive shoes like high heel shoes, and spike shoes.
5) Use plain water and immediately dry up the water residue if stains or spots occur.
6) Only use cleaning aids and treatments that are specifically formulated for your hardwood floor.
7) Never use abrasive cleaning tools such as steel wool pads, scouring pads, or anything containing metal.
8) Since engineered wood and laminated wood differ than solid hardwood floors, it requires similar maintenance but have specific needs.
Hardwood Floor Cleaning & More in Marietta, Roswell, Alpharetta, Sandy Springs, Johns Creek, Atlanta & Greater Woodstock, GA
When you need professional hardwood floor cleaning services in Atlanta, GA, call in the professionals of Carpet Dry Tech.