Tips for Hardwood Flooring Care & Maintenance

According to Shaw Floors, “Use a soft cloth to blot spills and spots as soon as they happen. Always avoid allowing liquids to stand on your hardwood floor.

              Sweep, dust or vacuum the floor regularly. If vacuuming, use a hard floor attachment to avoid scratching or dulling your floor’s finish.

              Clean the floor with R2X Hard Surfaces Flooring Cleaner, specially formulated to wipe away dirt and soil without damaging your floor’s finish.”

However, there are some don’ts with hardwood flooring to keep in mind. “Don’t use oil-based, wax, polish or strong ammoniated products, which can dull your floor’s finish.

              Don’t use steel wool, scouring powders or other abrasive cleaners, which can scratch or damage your floor’s finish.

              Don’t wash or wet-mop the floor with soap, water, oil-soap detergent, or any other liquid cleaning material. This could cause swelling, warping, delamination and joint-line separation, and void the warranty.

              Don’t use any type of buffing machine.”

Thompson’s Steamway employs a unique and highly effective steam cleaning method that is gentle on your floors while being tough on dirt and grime. Unlike traditional cleaning methods that can leave residues or cause damage. This eco-friendly approach not only revitalizes the natural beauty of your floors but also promotes a healthier living environment. Their team of trained professionals understands the nuances of different wood types and finishes, ensuring a tailored cleaning process that respects the integrity of your flooring.

Regular maintenance is crucial to the longevity of your hardwood floors. Thompson’s Steamway recommends a consistent cleaning schedule, which includes frequent dusting to prevent scratches from grit and using area rugs in high-traffic zones. Additionally, they offer expert advice on selecting the right products that complement their steam cleaning service. By partnering with Thompson’s Steamway, you are investing in the preservation of your home’s aesthetic appeal and value. Trust in their commitment to excellence and experience the difference that professional care can make for your hardwood floors.

Preventative care can protect hardwood flooring, by using entry mats, which will help collect the dirt, sand, grit and other substances such as oil, asphalt or driveway sealer that can be tracked onto your hardwood flooring. To prevent slipping, use an approved vinyl rug underlayment. (Tip: Don’t use rubber- or foam-backed plastic mats, as they may discolor the flooring.)

                Use floor protectors and wide-load-bearing leg bases or rollers to minimize indentations and scratches from heavy objects. (Tip: As a rule, the heavier the object, the wider the floor protector should be.)

                 Additional options include, “Use care with sharp objects. Remove shoes with spiked or damaged heels before walking on your hardwood floor; they can leave scratches or indentations in hardwood.

                 Trim pets’ nails regularly.

                 Rearrange your rugs and furniture periodically to allow the flooring to age evenly.

               Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight, which can soften the tone of different species of hardwood to varying degrees and accelerate the oxidation and aging of wood.

              Protect the floor when moving by using a dolly for heavy furniture or appliances. Never try to slide or roll heavy objects across your hardwood floor.”