Hardwood Floors Maintenance & Sealing

With the proper maintenance, hardwood floors have lasting beauty.

Hardwood floors are coveted for their warmth, durability and subtle beauty. Sealed with stain and top coat, hardwood floors are able to retain lasting beauty and durability with minimal maintenance.

General Maintenance

Sealed hardwood floors need only regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping with soap and water or a commercial cleaner to keep clean. Avoid using ammonia cleaners which can dull the finish, or oil-based cleaners that can cause a waxy buildup.

Sealing

Despite its overall durability, hardwood floors are subject to scratches and dings from dropped objects. To protect them from wear and tear and give them an attractive sheen, most hardwood floors are sealed with a top coat of polyurethane. Some are sealed with a wax or oil-based penetrating finish.

Long-term Maintenance

Area rugs should be used in kitchens and at entry points where there is high traffic. To minimize scratches, avoid dragging furniture across the floor. A good sealing can last for years depending on the amount of traffic in the room. Refinishing hardwood involves sanding off the old finish and recoating, a process which can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the condition of the floors.

References

• Pioneer Thinking: How To Care For Solid Hardwood Floors
• Finishing Wood Floors: Wood Floor Maintenance ~ A Hardwood Floor Care Guide
• Hardwood Installer: Screen and Coat Worn or Dull Hardwood Floors

Resources

• World Floor Covering Association: How To Clean A Hardwood Floor