How to Maintain Floors After Hardwood Floor Installation

Keeping your floors in good shape is important to protect your home, besides looking good. New hardwood flooring adds comfort and a pleasant look to your home, but if it’s not cared for, it can become less attractive and lose its durability. Early knowledge of what you should and shouldn’t do helps protect your floors for a long time. This blog will show you how to look after your floors following a Hardwood Floor Installation.

Why Maintenance After Hardwood Floor Installation Is Worth Understanding

Looking after your new flooring helps it retain its look and value. If you ignore the highest-grade hardwoods, they can begin to break down quickly. We’ll go over some essential actions to prolong the bright, new look of your floors.

Use the Right Cleaning Methods Immediately

It’s necessary to let the flooring sit and acclimate once it’s been installed. Don’t mop the floor with water or place heavy furniture on the carpet for the first 24 hours. Once your installer advises it’s safe, begin by using mild cleaning techniques on the surfaces. Clean daily dust and dirt on your TV by mopping it with a soft broom or a microfiber dust mop. If your vacuum has a floor-brush attachment, it still works, but choose one without rotating bristles that could cause marks on your floors.

Hardwood furniture can benefit from pH-neutral cleaners, which keep the finish in good shape. Harsh products can cause a film to build up on hair or remove the protective layer. Do not use water to clean your floors in large amounts; instead, use a wet mop only a little at a time.

Control Indoor Humidity and Temperature

Both highs and lows in climate can cause wood to expand or shrink. Consequently, the floorboards can become warped, have gaps, or cup. Running a humidifier in the winter and a dehumidifier in the summer can keep the air stable in your home.

Set the temperature on your HVAC reasonably and add curtains or blinds to keep direct sunlight from entering your home. Constant contact with UV rays can slowly cause wood surfaces to lose their color or fade. Doing these few things helps keep conditions constant after your Hardwood Floor Installation.

Protect High-Traffic Areas

Houses often see the most use in entryways, hallways, and living rooms. If you put area rugs or mats there, your floors won’t get as much wear and dust will be stopped. Rugs should breathe well and include a non-slip backing that won’t cause moisture to build up or damage the underneath.

Add protective felt pads on the underside of furniture legs so you don’t get dents. Don’t move anything especially heavy on the floor as you clean. When rearranging, lift the furniture or put sliders made for hardwood floors underneath, both to keep your floor safe.

Clean Up Spills Promptly

Even if your floors are sealed, liquids can damage them. Ignoring spills of water, juice, or anything your pet may leave behind can lead to staining, swelling, or mold growth. Clean spills instantly using a clean cloth that is not soaked. Do not use a steam mop on your hardwood floors, as it can send excess moisture into the wood and not be covered by warranty.

It becomes especially necessary when children or pets live in the house. Placing an absorbent towel next to your flooring area can help save the surface after your Hardwood Floor Installation.

Reapply Finish as Needed

The surface sheen may wear away with regular wear and cleaning. A refinishing process makes the wood look better and protects it, too. If the level of use is high or the finish is chosen correctly, new paint may be necessary every 3–5 years.

Just a screen-and-recoat is less damaging than sanding the entire piece, and it is perfect for delicate wear. Ask your installer what maintenance is required for your finish to keep your floor in good condition.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance protects your floors and ensures your home looks nice. Frequently cleaning, controlling the environment, and being careful will keep your hardwood floors looking lovely and durable. These easy habits can keep your Hardwood Floor Installation in good shape and prevent major costs.