Maintenance: : Hardwood

prevention:

Dirt and grit – Dirt, grit and sand are a hardwood floors’ worst enemies. They act like sandpaper on the finish, causing scratches, dents and dulling. Place floor mats at entrances to trap dirt and prevent damage.

Water and other spills – Standing water can warp a poorly finished hardwood floor and can damage the finish. Simply wipe up all spills as they happen.

Hard cleaners – Avoid oil soaps. They can build up and create problems when it’s time to put a maintenance coat on the floor. Instead, neutral pH cleaners made specifically for wood floors are recommended.

Furniture – Lift the furniture to move it — avoid dragging. Felt contacts under the legs will help prevent scratches.

Dents – Vacuum with a brush attachment — don’t use vacuums with beater bars.

Sun – Direct sun can discolor a hardwood floor. Close curtains and blinds or add sheer drapes to protect from the sun’s intense UV rays.

Do
  • Clean up tracked-in dirt/grit immediately.
  • Place floor protectors on ALL furniture legs.
  • Place walk off mats and area rugs in high traffic areas (make sure they stay dry and are cleaned underneath often).
  • Perform routine maintenance as recommended by manufacturer, including sweeping, vacuuming and/or dust mopping to remove dirt and grit. Always perform this process before and after any occasion that generates a high volume of traffic on the floor.
  • Keep high heel shoes in good repair and pet nails trimmed on a regular basis.
DO NOT USE
  • WET mops
  • ammonia
  • dust cleaners
  • cleaning products for non-wood floors
  • wax on a urethane finish- NEVER !