Hardwood flooring can be a fantastic choice for any property. It is very durable and can be found in a wide variety of wood species, colours, patterns and finishes to suit any interior. It adds a long lasting, natural, luxurious appeal to any home and can last for decades if installed correctly and looked after properly. Follow these simple dos and don’ts to ensure your hardwood flooring maintains its beauty and attractiveness:
Do:
• Choose the correct type and hardness of flooring for the expected volumes of traffic in a particular area.
• Install your hardwood flooring using the correct and appropriate methods – it is always advisable to use a professional floor fitter.
• Check that your subfloor is flat, level and dry before installing your hardwood floor.
• Apply the correct stain and finish (if you have chosen an unfinished hardwood floor).
• Sweep your floor on a daily basis to remove any small dirt and dust particles.
• Clean your floor with a PH neutral wooden floor cleaning spray and microfibre mop.
• Wipe up accidents and spills immediately so that liquid does not soak into your hardwood floor.
• Remove outdoor footwear before walking on your hardwood floor.
• Apply anti-scratch felt protector pads to the bottom of furniture to avoid unnecessary dents and scratches from occurring.
Do not:
• Install your hardwood floor in rooms with excess moisture and water, for example, a bathroom.
• Clean your hardwood flooring using oils, waxes or furniture polish as they may leave a slippery residue on the surface of your floor.
• Clean your hardwood flooring with acidic or abrasive products as they can scratch and mark the floor.
• Use a steam mop to clean your hardwood floor. The heat can cause the floor to warp or distort.
• Use excessive water to mop your hardwood floor. Always ensure the mop is wrung out properly as excess water will cause your floor to distort and swell.
• Drop or drag heavy or sharp objects across your hardwood floor.
