It can be a bit overwhelming to take it all in to ensure the overall condition, longevity, and esthetics for people who have never been exposed to hardwood floors providing the regular care, maintenance, and preventative applications. There are some primary basics you should know and we at Steam Magic Carpet Cleaning would like to relate them for you today when you are first charged with caring for solid hardwood flooring . .

Characteristics of Solid Hardwood Floors

Manufactured to be thicker and more durable, solid hardwood floors can be unfinished or factory finished if you are looking for new installation. As it comes pre-sanded and finished, factory finishes minimize the installation work. A more optimal option for those wanting to implement custom designs, whereas the unfinished wood requires the sanding and finishing following the installation. There is a process and walking on the hardwood floor is not recommended until it is completed from installation to sanding, to finishing. With the durability and longevity it offers it is well worth the investment, solid hardwood flooring is more costly than the other alternatives.

Is Solid Hardwood Flooring Hard to Maintain?

– By either sweeping with a soft bristled broom, a dust mop, or a vacuum that features a “bare floor” or “hardwood floor” setting, clear away the surface dust and debris. In order to keep the dust and dirt from scuffing the floors as you are walking, this should be done daily. It deteriorates the finish and causes scratches and scuffs in the wood when it comes to dirt on the floors, combined with everyday walking creates friction.
– During those hours ensure the windows are covered with UV film, blinds, or curtain since direct sunlight hits the hardwood flooring. It dries it out and fades the color when the sun shines directly on the wood.
– In an effort to offer the hardwood floor more protection from potential particulates that can contribute to blemishes or damage, area rugs and runners are ideal for entry points and areas where there is a lot of foot traffic.

How Do You Protect Solid Hardwood Floors?

– With abrasive shoes like high heel shoes, and spike shoes, avoid walking on the wood floors.
– If stains or spots occur, use plain water and immediately dry up the water residue and stay away from using water or cleaners to clean the floor.
– Specifically formulated for your hardwood floor are the only cleaning products you should use.
– Never take abrasive cleaning tools to the wood floor, such as steel wool pads, scouring pads, or anything containing metal.
– Your pet can track in dirt and mud and their nails can easily scratch the floor, and just like us, they can. Keep your pet’s nails trimmed and their paws cleaned to minimize the negative impact.
– Humidity levels should be kept between 35% and 55%, humidifiers can maintain the humidity balance, which is important to avoid shrinkage.
– Use a dry microfiber cloth to immediately wipe up spills with a clean. Water damage or warping can be caused by leaving water on the surface since it can seep into the gaps.
– Require similar maintenance but have specific needs and engineered wood and laminated wood differ than solid hardwood floors.

Hardwood Floor Cleaning, Sanding, Refinishing, Staining, Installation & More in San Diego, Solana Beach, La Mesa, Mission Valley, La Jolla, Del Mar, Poway, Encinitas & Chula Vista, California

Call Steam Magic Carpet Cleaning and let our experts restore your hardwood floor to their shine and vibrancy if your hardwood floor is in need of a professional’s helping hand.