Simple Techniques For Maintaining Hardwood Flooring In Top Shape

Posted by Rita H Peterson on September 26th, 2019

Installing hardwood flooring can be costly but many people find them to be worth the price, until they need to hire cleaning services in Boulder, CO to fix the mess made by kids or pets. But maintaining hardwood floor does not have to be a costly affair if you are vigilant about its upkeep. Admittedly, it can be a bit cumbersome but maintaining the floor's warm aesthetic for years to come is worth the effort in the long run. Moreover, intact wood floors add to the market value of the house. So without further ado, here are some simple techniques to keep hardwood floors in top shape:

Daily Dusting

Wood collects dust on a daily basis and if left alone for days will collect a lot. Which is why it should be dusted regularly. Microfiber mop or cloths are effective for hardwood flooring as they do not scratch the surface like other brooms and brush dust away very easily due to the static electricity they build up.

Weekly Vacuuming

Even with daily dusting there is a chance of missing dust trapped in the inner layers of hardwood planks, especially between the gaps. A vacuum cleaner can suck in dirt from places the microfiber mop can't reach. It's also a good alternative to daily dusting as you need to this only once every week but for best effects you should do both. Be sure to only use the soft-bristled brush attachment to avoid scratching the flooring. Also, be cautious about the wheels of the cleaner as they could scratch the wood.

Monthly Damp-mopping

Even with weekly vacuuming some dirt in the inner layers may be left behind. To get rid of them, damp mop the floor using a cleaning agent especially made for hardwood. Apply only the bare minimum. You can refer to the manufacturer's label for the agent suitable for your floor's sealant. Do not use water or steam as they could damage the timber by warping or discoloring them.

Polishing Once In A While

Hardwood flooring loses its shine due to regular wear and tear but you can keep it as glossy as the day you installed it by polishing it one every two or three months. A buffing pad can buff away the scratches leaving it as good as new. Other polishing materials can be used based on the manufacturer's recommendation. Flooring with glossy finish should not be waxed.

Protect From Sunlight

Direct light and heat can damage the hardwood's color with long periods of exposure. Using window covers like blinds and shutters can prevent UV rays from coming in contact with the material. Furniture and mats can be rearranged to ensure that all areas of the floor age at an even rate.

Use Carpets

Carpets don't just cover the ground from UV rays, they also act as the first line of defense against spills, taking the hit for the ground this preventing them from getting stained. Doormats are especially useful as people rub the dirt on their footwear on the mat before entering thus keeping it off the hardwood flooring saving time and effort on the cleaning process. It's important to use a rug suitable for hardwood. Rubber and non-ventilated rugs collect dirt and debris easily and shouldn't be used. Also, be sure to dust the carpet every week.

Attach Felt Protectors To Furniture

Flooring with polyurethane coating needs to be coated again every three to five years to maintain its gloss especially when regular maintenance no longer suffices.

These are just some methods that can be used to keep hardwood flooring in top shape. In case something still manages to scratch or spill on the wooden surface, you can rely on cleaning services in Boulder, CO.