How to Protect Hardwood Floors & Furniture

Excessive moving of furniture around a home or apartment will scratch the floor.

Wood floor and furniture is fairly durable and long-lasting as long as it is cared for properly. Hardwood floors are more susceptible to damage because of heavy traffic. Wood furniture is easily damaged when moved. Conditions inside the home such as moisture and temperature require monitoring as well to prevent damage to the wood. Preventing damage is less expensive than repairing damaged pieces of wood, so spend the extra money and time before damage occurs.

Things You'll Need

• Area rug
• Plastic feet
• Curtains
• Coasters
• Table covers

Instructions

1. Place an area rug in high-traffic areas or places where spills of water or other liquids are likely to occur to prevent moisture damage.

2. Apply plastic feet to the bottom of your furniture to prevent damage to the feet as well as the floor.

3. Measure the humidity in your home to prevent moisture from splitting your wood. Keep the relative humidity in the home between 25 to 35 percent during the summer.

4. Move solid wood furniture away from direct sunlight to prevent blistering and discoloration of varnish. Hang curtains in the home to prevent excessive sunlight from hitting your floor, or apply an area rug in a high-sunlight area.

5. Place coasters or table covers on wood tables to prevent liquid damage on the varnish.

Tips & Warnings

• Polish the wood furniture two to three times a year.

References

• Pioneer Thinking: How to Care for Solid Hardwood Floors
• Hardwood Floors 101: Protect Hardwood Floors
• Ghar Expert: How to Protect Wood Furniture
• Home Furniture Care: Wood Furniture Care