Hardwood is a timeless classic when it comes to flooring materials. It looks great, it cuts down on allergens in the house and it lasts a long time. But you won’t reap the benefits of these qualities without a little bit of regular maintenance. In this post, we’ll go over four ways to keep your hardwood flooring looking new.
The Daily Sweep
The best way to keep your hardwood flooring looking new is to sweep it regularly. This will not only get rid of any dust and dirt, but it’ll also ensure there aren’t any small pebbles that will cause scratches when they’re tread upon. Whether you use a broom or mop is really up to your personal preference. Just make sure to use it regularly to ensure a clean and new-looking floor.
Use A Wood Cleaner
Hardwood floors are prone to a waxy buildup which can leave them looking dull. Applying a wood cleaner every week can prevent this from happening. That said, it’s important to use a wood cleaner that’s designed for your floor. Water, vinegar or other types of unapproved cleaning solutions can damage the floor’s finish and the floor itself, so make sure to use a cleaner recommended by the manufacturer.
Apply A Polish
You should be polishing your hardwood floors three or four times a year. Again, it’s important to use the correct type of polish or you could end up doing more damage than good. Sweep and vacuum the floor before polishing to make sure you’ve removed all the dirt and debris. Follow the instructions on the packaging for the best results.
Refinish The Floor When Necessary
You shouldn’t have to refinish your floor very often, but if you end up with a lot of stains or scratches you might consider a full refinishing to restore your floor to new. The ability to refinish a hardwood floor and get it back to its original condition is one of the main selling points of such an investment. While it is possible to refinish a hardwood floor yourself, it’s something you might consider hiring a professional for. The money you spend could save you a lot of time and energy while ensuring you end up with a brand new-looking floor.
