One of the biggest selling features of hardwood floors is their longevity, as they can last for generations to come if looked after properly. How you maintain your hardwood floors is quite important by following this advice it will help to keep your hardwood floors looking stunning for years to come.

Preventative Maintenance
Preventative maintenance is important as it can reduce cleaning time significantly and help prevent damages from occurring. This can include anything from positioning mats on either side of doorways to handle foot traffic, using floor protectors under furniture and making sure the floors have been properly sealed. Not only will this make regular cleaning easier and minimise any damage, it will also help preserve the flooring and protect the longevity of the product.

Regular Care
Regular cleaning of your hardwood floors is not a complicated process. Start by sweeping and dusting the floor to remove any excess dust and debris and then mop the floors with a mop that has been treated with a dusting agent to lift all the dirt and pet hair that can scratch and damage the floor’s finish. It is also safe to use the vacuum cleaner with the brush attachment for regular cleaning, or spot clean with electrostatic cloths.

Removing Tough Marks
When it comes to removing marks and scuffs from the floor the finish has to be considered. If the mark appears to be on the surface then it is likely your floor has a hard finish such as urethane, whereas if it appears to have soaked in, it more than likely has an oiled finish. The latter is common in older homes where the hardwood had not been refinished and resealed.

To remove marks from hard finishes simply wipe with a cloth, remembering never to use abrasive materials such as steel wool, sandpaper or harsh chemicals because they can cause permanent damage to the wood.

Taking care of your hardwood floor may take some work, but you’ll appreciate the benefits of the long run.