So, you recently got hardwood floors installed in your home – congratulations! This can make an enormous difference to the look and feel of a space. But with beautiful hardwood floors come important duties of care and maintenance, which most homeowners are likely to know nothing about. To help guide you through this process, we’re sharing our expert advice for how to properly take care of your hardwood flooring so it can be enjoyed for years on end.
Understanding moisture levels – why it’s important and how to measure them
Understanding the moisture levels in your home environment or workspace can be essential for keeping it safe and conducive for living and working. Too much humidity can cause damage to property, furniture, and even electrical equipment; whereas low humidity can have adverse effects on your health. To ensure that moisture levels stay within a comfortable range, you should consider investing in a hygrometer to measure the exact relative humidity levels in the room. Hygrometers come in both digital and analog models and are relatively easy to use. They incorporate different sensors to accurately measure the relative humidity levels instantly so you can take appropriate action depending on what they read. Knowing how to read and interpret the data they provide is also important as every home or office may require adjustments based on local climate conditions.
Benefits of cleaning hardwood floors regularly
Cleaning hardwood floors regularly is necessary to maintain them and keep them looking beautiful. Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of dirt, dust, and other debris that can scratch or dull a floor’s surface overtime. Furthermore, regular cleaning with the right products will protect the floor’s finish from damage or fading due to sun exposure. Another benefit of regularly cleaning your hardwood floors is it helps remove the various dust particles in order to help protect those with allergies and reduce dust-related respiratory issues. Finally, when done appropriately and regularly, cleaning your hardwood floors can actually help extend their life span by protecting them from harsh elements, spills, and more.
Types of cleaning products that are best for hardwood floors
Hardwood floors require special cleaning and care as they are sensitive to moisture. The best way to keep hardwood floors looking their best is to use the right cleaners. A ph neutral cleaner designed for hardwood floors is necessary for regular maintenance. Specialized oil soaps, such as Murphy’s Oil Soap, can help restore a fading finish or keep a newer surface looking vibrant; however, these should be used in moderation. Avoid using harsh abrasives like steel wool which can scratch the surface of your hardwood flooring or cause dullness over time. Vacuuming regularly with the correct attachment will help you keep your hardwood floor clean and free of dust particles that could harm its surface.
Steps to protect hardwood floors from scratches and dents
Protecting hardwood floors from damages such as scratches and dents is an important part of preserving the flooring and maintaining its beauty. Some basic steps can be taken to ensure that your hardwood floors are properly cared for. First, adding area rugs to high-traffic areas will provide a buffer between the foot traffic and the flooring itself. Secondly, if possible, use felt or rubber protectors on furniture legs to reduce scratching; if these are not available, simply raising furniture off of the ground with blocks or pieces of wood can help. Finally, it is important to always mop up spills promptly and avoid using cleaning products that can leave a residue on the floor as this can cause discoloration over time. Taking these simple steps can help protect your hardwood floors from scratches and dents into the future.
Professional vs DIY refinishing options – when it’s time for a professional
Refinishing your hardwood floors is a great way to breathe new life into them and make them look like new again. It is possible to do this as a DIY project, however, at certain times you may want to opt for professional refinishing in order to ensure the job is done correctly with the best possible results. If you are wanting a complete change of color or stain, if there are multiple coats of existing finish that must be removed before applying a new one, if there are any deep scratches that need to be filled in, or if your floors are heavily worn or damaged, it’s best to go with a professional who has the proper experience and products needed to make sure the job is done right.
Tips for maintaining the beauty of your hardwood floors
Hardwood floors are a beautiful addition to any home that can help enhance your interior décor. There are a few relatively simple maintenance tips you can follow to keep your hardwood floors looking their best. First, you should clean them regularly with a microfiber cloth and vacuum them at least once a week with an attachment specially made for hardwood floors. Doing this will reduce the amount of dirt, pet hair, and debris that builds up in the cracks and crevices between planks. To prevent scratches and dings, use floor mats at all entries to help trap outdoor dirt from being tracked inside and felt or rubber protectors on furniture feet. Lastly, use area rugs strategically placed to catch sun damage or spills in high traffic areas. Following these guidelines can help ensure your hardwood floors looks will retain their original beauty for many years to come.
Caring for your hardwood floors requires a lot of effort, but the effort pays off in the long run. It’s important to understand how moisture levels affect your floors and to regularly clean them with specialized products to ensure their longevity. Additionally, it’s important to take steps such as placing mats in high-traffic areas and using felt pads when moving furniture to preserve your flooring. If you’ve begun to notice more dents and scratches on your wood?flooring than usual, replacing or refinishing may be the answer. The cost of a DIY project compared with a professional one may differ, depending on the type of hardwood floors you have and the extent of damage done to it. If in doubt, always call a local professional for advice who can provide tailored solutions for all your hardwood floors?needs. Call Peachwood Floor Covering in Charlotte today for any flooring related questions or inquiries!