The main and most popular three types of real wood floors are solid wood, engineered wood and parquet floors. Each and every type has its specific characteristics and features, however, there is one main similarity between all of them, no matter the wood species and the type of installation – they have a few shared enemies, which can totally ruin their stability and appearance. Here are the top 9 enemies of every wooden floor, or otherwise said – here are the 9 things you have to skip when having a wooden flooring:
Cleaning products
Now, cleaning products are a subject of discussion. The truth is that the best cleaning routine for wood floors is weekly sweeping, mopping with a damp mop and vacuuming. However, in some situations, the use of cleaning products is required. When using them, simply make sure they are not the usual all-in-one multipurpose, but specially created for the specific type of wood flooring. Another thing you have to keep in mind is how you use them, Just don’t use them directly on the floor, because pouring too much has the same destructive effect as using too much water.
Do not use harsh chemicals and abrasives
As we have already mentioned, you have to choose the cleaning products depending on the type of flooring. They are usually tender to the wood, which excludes the use of harsh chemicals, abrasives, bleach and a common wrongly used vinegar.
Do not use hard casters on any furniture
With time the casters on the furniture pieces will cause wear and tear and certain spots and this will require sanding and refinishing services.
Forget about the unprotected furniture bottoms
To prevent the contact between heavy furniture pieces and the sleek surface of the wooden floor, make sure to place pads and rugs under furniture pieces like tables, chairs, sofas, couches, beds, nightstands and in general, every heavy piece, which can cause additional scratches and wear and tear due to constant movement.
Forget about the steam mops
Moisture + high temperature are the main enemies of wooden floors. The combination of them both can cause many serious and major issues, making the floor contract and expand, leading to ungluing or un-nailing from the subfloor, loose, broken or cracked planks, peeling off or cracking the top finishing layer and more.
High heels
Wearing high heels over hardwood is one of the most common reasons for scratches, dents and marks. Make sure you leave the high heels at the door and wear slippers instead to prevent ruining the sleek appearance of the floor.
Follow a regular maintenance routine
No matter if it comes to polishing, recoating, waxing, re-oiling and even re-sanding, make sure to keep and follow a routine, recommended by the experts and don’t neglect any signs of wear and tear and imperfections.
Do not drag heavy furniture pieces over the floor
The heavy furniture pieces have to be lifted carefully and then relocated, otherwise your floor will start to suffer scratches and deeper dents sooner than you have expected.
Prevent the floor from pet’s nails
Keep the nails of your cat or dog trimmed, otherwise, you will start noticing they leave some scratches and dents.
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