Hardwood floors bring beauty and elegance to any place, but they are susceptible to scratches. Luckily, with a few preventative measures and proper care, you can keep your hardwood looking beautiful for years.
Preventative measures
- Use protective pads: Apply felt or rubber pads to the feet of furniture. These pads create a barrier between the hard surface of the furniture and your delicate hardwood, minimizing the risk of scratches and scuffs.
- Doormats and rugs: Place doormats at all entrances to trap dirt, sand, and other debris that can scratch floors when tracked in. Use area rugs in high-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, and living rooms to add an extra layer of protection.
- Pet care: Trim your pet's nails regularly and consider using pet-friendly floor waxes or finishes to minimize the impact of their claws.
- Remove shoes: Encourage family members and guests to remove their shoes at the door. Shoes can carry in small pebbles and grit, which act like sandpaper on wood flooring surfaces.
- Be mindful of furniture placement: Avoid dragging furniture across the floor. Instead, lift and carry items to their desired location to prevent deep gouges.
- Use furniture coasters: Consider using furniture coasters for heavy items like sofas and tables. These allow you to move furniture easily without risking scratches.
Cleaning and maintenance
- Routine cleaning: Sweep or dust mop your hardwood floors daily to remove dirt and debris. Use a soft-bristled broom or vacuum cleaner with a wood floor attachment to avoid scratching the surface.
- Proper mopping: When mopping, use a well-wrung mop and a cleaning solution particularly designed for hardwood flooring. Avoid too much moisture, as it can seep into the wood and cause damage.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Never use harsh cleaners, abrasive scrubbers, or steam cleaners on hardwood floors, as they can damage the finish and make the wood more vulnerable to scratching.
Refinishing and repair
- Refinish periodically: Wood flooring benefits from refinishing every few years. The refinishing process involves sanding down the old finish and applying a new one, restoring the floor's protective layer, and reducing the appearance of scratches.
- Address scratches promptly: Small scratches can often be buffed out with a soft cloth and a bit of wood floor polish. Deeper scratches may require professional attention to repair.
Pro-tip: Consider using protective mats under rolling chairs to prevent scratches caused by wheels.
Consult with our hardwood flooring store
iStone Floors & More can offer valuable advice on protecting your hardwood floors. We can recommend suitable cleaning products, floor finishes, and preventative measures tailored to your specific needs and type of wood. Our hardwood flooring store in Hurst, TX, serves Hurst, Fort Worth, Grapevine, Southlake, Keller, Irving, North Richland Hills, Colleyville, Bedford, and Euless, TX.
