How to Maintain Your Hardwood Floors: Expert Tips for Longevity and Beauty
Hardwood floors are a timeless choice for homeowners, offering a perfect blend of elegance, durability, and warmth. Whether you have chosen premium wide plank wood flooring or another type of hardwood, proper care is essential to preserve its beauty and extend its lifespan. In this guide, we will explore expert tips for cleaning and maintaining your hardwood floors, focusing on what to do—and what to avoid—so your floors stay in pristine condition for years to come.
Why Hardwood Floor Maintenance Matters
When cared for properly, hardwood floors can last decades, adding value to your home. Without proper maintenance, however, they can become dull, scratched, or warped over time. This is especially true for premium wide plank wood flooring, where each plank's larger surface area makes scratches and dents more visible.
The Dos and Don’ts of Hardwood Floor Maintenance
Watch this 1 minute video tutorial on how to maintain your Artistry Hardwood Floor.
Do: Sweep or Vacuum Regularly
One of the easiest ways to keep your hardwood floors in top condition is regular sweeping or vacuuming. Dust, dirt, and debris act like sandpaper on your floors, creating micro-scratches that dull the finish over time. Use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum designed for hardwood floors to remove dirt. Vacuum with a hardwood floor attachment or a vacuum with a bare floor setting to avoid scratching the surface.
Don’t: Use a Beater Bar
Avoid vacuums with a beater bar, as the stiff bristles can scratch the wood. Stick to attachments made specifically for hardwood to protect the floor’s finish.
Do: Clean Spills Immediately
Spills are inevitable, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens or living rooms. However, wood is sensitive to moisture, and standing water can lead to warping or staining. Wipe up spills right away using a dry or slightly damp cloth. For sticky spills, use a damp cloth and follow up by drying the area thoroughly with a soft towel.
Don’t: Let Water Sit on the Floor
Excess moisture is hardwood flooring’s worst enemy. Even small amounts of standing water can cause the wood to swell and cup. Be particularly mindful in areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways.
Do: Use the Right Cleaner
For routine cleaning, use a product specifically designed for hardwood floors. These cleaners are formulated to remove dirt and grime without leaving residue or stripping the floor’s protective finish. Artistry Flooring recommends Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner for their floors. It’s a gentle, water-based solution that’s safe for wood. Here are some additional cleaning tips from Bona.
Don’t: Use Harsh Chemicals or DIY Mixtures
Avoid cleaners that contain ammonia, vinegar, or abrasive chemicals, as these can damage your floor’s finish and create permanent marks. Additionally, homemade mixtures with water and vinegar or soap can leave behind a dulling film.
Tips for Long-Term Care and Maintenance
Beyond daily and weekly cleaning, hardwood floors require periodic maintenance to keep them looking their best.
Do: Recoating When Necessary
Even with proper care, hardwood floors can become dull or scratched over time. The good news is that they can be recoated to look like new. For premium wide plank wood flooring, refinishing can be done without affecting the integrity of the wider planks, as long as you work with a professional. Depending on foot traffic and usage, refinishing may be needed every 5-10 years.
Don’t: Neglect High-Traffic Areas
Certain parts of your home may experience more wear and tear than others, especially entryways, hallways, and living rooms. Use area rugs or runners in these spots to minimize damage. Make sure rugs are non-slip and designed for use on hardwood floors to prevent scratches.
Preventative Measures for Hardwood Floor Care
Protecting your floors is just as important as cleaning them. By taking a few preventative steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage.
Do: Use Furniture Pads
Furniture can easily scratch hardwood floors, especially when moved or dragged. Protect your floors by placing felt pads on the bottoms of furniture legs, especially heavy pieces like sofas, chairs, and tables. Be sure to check and replace the pads regularly, as they can wear down or become dirty over time.
Watch this 1 minute video tutorial on how to maintain your Artistry Hardwood Floor.
Don’t: Drag Heavy Furniture
If you need to move furniture, always lift it instead of dragging it across the floor. This will prevent deep gouges and scratches that are more difficult to repair.
Do: Control Indoor Humidity
Wood is a natural material that reacts to changes in humidity. If the air is too dry, the wood can shrink and crack. Conversely, if it’s too humid, the wood can expand and warp. Maintain an indoor humidity level between 35-55% to keep your floors stable.
Consider using a humidifier or dehumidifier depending on your local climate.
Don’t: Expose Floors to Excessive Sunlight
Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade or discolor hardwood floors over time. To protect your floors, use window coverings like blinds or curtains in rooms that receive a lot of sun, especially during peak hours.
You can also apply UV-protective coatings to your windows to help minimize sunlight exposure.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips
Changes in weather and temperature can affect the condition of your hardwood floors, especially if you live in an area with distinct seasons.
Do: Adjust for Seasonal Changes
Winter: During colder months, indoor heating can cause the air to become dry, which may lead to shrinkage or cracking. Consider using a humidifier to balance the moisture levels.
Summer: In humid climates, excess moisture can cause wood to swell. Use a dehumidifier or air conditioning to keep indoor humidity in check.
Final Thoughts: Preserving the Beauty of Premium Wide Plank Wood Flooring
Maintaining your hardwood floors doesn’t have to be a chore. By following these expert tips and practicing proper care, you can ensure that your premium wide plank wood flooring retains its beauty and durability for years to come. Remember, consistent cleaning, avoiding excess moisture, and taking preventive measures like using furniture pads and controlling humidity are key to keeping your floors looking like new.
Whether your floors are part of a newly renovated home or a well-loved space that has seen years of use, they are an investment worth protecting. With the right approach, your hardwood floors will continue to add value and elegance to your home for decades.
For more expert advice on caring for your premium wide plank wood flooring, visit Artistry Flooring’s maintenance guide or contact a professional for personalized tips.
