Whether you are thinking about adding hardwood floors to your home or if you just need to take better care of the ones you currently have, then now is the best time to put your wood floor knowledge to the test. Let this be your manual on preserving hardwood floors:
At First…
*When dealing with cleaning products, it is essential that you read the label first before buying it to ensure that it is suitable for the surface you will be cleaning.
*You may purchase felt protectors for your furniture legs to help protect floors from scratches and pick up debris (an advice from flooring expert from the National Wood Flooring Association, Brett Miller). The felt protectors should be replaced as needed as they will wear down and eventually become less effective as time passes. If you have furniture that slides around such as dining and kitchen chairs, then the protectors should be replaced every month.
Weekly
*When cleaning your hardwood flooring, make sure to clean it dry first, and then wet them second. Dry-cleaning is essential to do first in order to prevent dirt from scratching the floor when you mop the floor. If you do not clean up that debris first, then it will be like dragging sandpaper across the floor.
Monthly
*Having sun-kissed skin is great, but not wood floors. It is important to inspect your floors on a monthly basis to check if there is any discoloration. Do not forget to peep under your rugs and carpet. If you do find any discoloration, then it is high-time to consider a fresh topcoat.
Yearly
*Keep in mind that wood floors are natural, so they can be easily affected by the environment. If you do see gaps that have developed between the boards during dry seasons, you do not need to worry at first, but if the wood does not shrink back into place during humid seasons, then you should bring in certified wood flooring experts, so they can assess what causes the separation. You can avoid excessive gaps by using a humidifier to offset the air during dry seasons.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
Keep in mind that routine maintenance plays a major role in preserving wood floors, so make sure to put these tasks on your to-do-list in the future for preference:
*Every three to five years, your floors should be deep cleaned, and fresh coat of finish should be added.
*As much as you can, resist sliding furniture. It is better to pick things up if you want to move them around, instead of dragging them.
*Every few decades, make sure to sand and refinish wood floors in order to make them look new again.
If you need professional help with your hardwood flooring, visit our website today. Don’t hesitate to give us a call!
Explore our services: Hardwood Flooring Installation | Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring
Frequently Asked Questions
What should Toronto homeowners know about hardwood flooring?
When considering hardwood flooring, evaluate durability, maintenance requirements, and cost per square foot for your specific needs. Tony’s Flooring Centre at 268 Royal York Rd offers expert advice and free estimates to help you make the right choice for your Toronto home.
How long does hardwood flooring last?
Quality hardwood flooring lasts 25 to 100 years with proper maintenance. Solid hardwood can be refinished multiple times, extending its life significantly. The National Wood Flooring Association recommends professional refinishing every 7-10 years.
Can hardwood floors be installed over concrete in Toronto?
Engineered hardwood can be installed over concrete using a floating or glue-down method. Solid hardwood generally requires a plywood subfloor over concrete. A moisture barrier is essential in Toronto due to seasonal humidity changes.
Need Help Choosing the Right Flooring?
With over 60 years of experience, Tony’s Flooring Centre makes choosing the right floor easy. From hardwood and carpet to eco-friendly cork and marmoleum, we carry it all. Visit us at 268 Royal York Rd, call (416) 255-9631, or contact us online.