ShadeTree Hardwood Floors

The Rim Country’s Hardwood Flooring Specialist

Wood floors are very easy to maintain and will last a life time if you follow some general recommendations.

 

Enemy Number 1: Water   (Click here for more info on Water and Wood)

Regardless of its finish,  your floor will quickly lose its luster if exposed to water. More serious damage, including warping,  occurs with longer exposure.

DO: Wipe up any spills immediately with a soft, dry cloth, starting at the edges of the spill and working your way toward the center.

DO: Make sure plants are kept in waterproof containers to prevent water stains.

DO: Keep the humidity in your home relatively constant (between 35-45%). Humidity can have a great effect on your wood floor. Unless the relative humidity in your home is kept constant, the wood floor could swell or shrink and form cracks.

DON'T: Let water stand on your floor, or use wet cloths for clean up.

DON'T: Wet mop floors, not even with a slightly damp mop. Never use soap or furniture oils and the like.

 

Dirt, Dust and Grit

Tracking dirt, dust, and grit can dull the finish and cause scratches that can only be repaired by refinishing the floor.

DO: Use doormats at the entrances of your home to help trap dirt and grit.

DO: Dry mop your floors regularly.

DO: Vacuum frequently, using a canister vacuum with special hardwood floor attachments.

DON’T: Clean your floor with wax related products, furniture polishes, vinegar, ammonia or pine cleaners. They dull your finish and make it more difficult for the floor to be refinished.

DON'T: Use an upright vacuum with beater bars. They can cause dents in your floor's finish.

 

Area Rugs

DO: Use area rugs inside doorways and in areas like kitchens where spills are likely to occur.

DO: Move your area carpets or throw rugs occasionally to maintain a uniform appearance in the floor's finish.

DON’T: Place rugs on your newly finished floor for two weeks to allow for curing.

DON'T: Use throw rugs with rubber or vinyl backing without checking to determine if they will affect your floor's finish. Some materials in the backing can react with finishes, discoloring or dulling the finish.

DON'T: Let damp throw rugs sit on the floor. Check the rugs frequently during rainy seasons.

Floor Care Do’s & Don’ts

Go to Floor Care Pg. 2

Go to Floor Care Pg. 2