Hardwood Floor 101: Cleaning Wood Floors the Right Way
AffinityX GrayTV • January 19, 2021
Aside from adding elegance and warmth to your home, hardwood floors
are low maintenance and easy to clean. They are designed to be more resistant to stains compared to other types of flooring. Dirt and grime are also easily noticeable on wood floors.
To avoid damage to your hardwood floor, you need to clean it the right way with the appropriate tools. Follow the tips below on how to clean hardwood floors to keep them durable and long-lasting.
Sweep the floor daily.
A broom and dustpan can go a long way in removing dust and dirt on your hardwood floors. Use a soft-bristled, angled broom that can sweep wide areas and reach corners easily.
Another excellent tool is a microfiber cleaning pad. It is designed to trap dirt, particles, and other household allergens using static electricity. To utilize it efficiently, do not lift the mop off the floor when cleaning so that the dust stays on the pad.
Clean hard-to-reach areas with a vacuum weekly.
Vacuum cleaners can deal with dust and dirt in hard-to-reach areas such as the spaces between the hardwood floors. Do this weekly to prevent particles from accumulating in these spaces.
Choose a vacuum with a soft floor nozzle to avoid scratching the wood. Be careful when dragging the wheels of the vacuum as they can also damage the floor. You can also invest in a robot vacuum to save time and effort; just make sure you choose a long-lasting one.
Polish the wood floor every 2-3 months.
Hardwood floors
have a protective surface that keeps liquid spills from causing water damage to the wood. To maintain the finish, polishing the floor regularly is necessary. Aside from making it shine, the process will renew the finish and add extra protection to the floor.
Other tips:
- Use the correct products. There are cleaning solutions designed for wood floors available on the market. Do not use vinegar, soap-based cleaners, and steam cleaners because these products can destroy the wood’s finish.
- Wipe spills right away. Water damage can extensively harm your hardwood floors. Moisture can seep through the finish, so make sure you clean wet spills right away.
Consult a Professional
If you need help figuring out the right cleaning tools and products
for your wood flooring, consult a professional. At Floors for Less, we’ll gladly offer suggestions and answer your questions about the maintenance of hardwood floors. We also provide repair and refinishing services for floors suffering from major damage. Contact us today for more information.
Upgrade your flooring today with engineered hardwood and enjoy a stylish, long-lasting solution tailored for Madison’s climate!
Stay ahead of the trends this winter by upgrading your flooring with stylish and practical options that suit Madison’s climate.
Madison, WI, experiences a challenging freeze-thaw cycle during the winter months, which can take a toll on your flooring. Fluctuating temperatures and moisture can cause floors to expand, contract, and even warp if not properly prepared. Here’s how to protect your floors and ensure they withstand Madison’s winter conditions.  Understand the Freeze-Thaw Cycle’s Impact on Flooring The freeze-thaw cycle refers to the repeated freezing and thawing of moisture in and around your home. This cycle can: Cause hardwood floors to expand and contract, leading to gaps or buckling. Lead to moisture seeping into tile grout, causing cracks or loosening tiles. Result in water damage to carpets and other porous flooring materials. Steps to Prepare Your Floors 1. Seal Hardwood Floors Sealing hardwood floors helps prevent moisture from penetrating the wood. A high-quality sealant acts as a barrier, reducing the risk of warping or swelling during temperature changes. 2. Use Floor Mats and Rugs Place floor mats at entryways to trap snow, salt, and moisture brought in from outside. Adding rugs in high-traffic areas can provide an extra layer of protection for your floors. 3. Maintain Humidity Levels Use a humidifier to keep indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%. This prevents hardwood floors from drying out or expanding due to excess moisture. 4. Clean Regularly Dust and debris can scratch floors and make them more susceptible to damage. Sweep, vacuum, and mop floors regularly with appropriate cleaning solutions to maintain their integrity. 5. Inspect and Repair Grout For tiled floors, check the grout for cracks or signs of wear. Repairing damaged grout prevents water from seeping beneath the tiles, which can cause lifting or cracking during freeze-thaw cycles . 6. Apply Waterproofing Solutions For areas prone to moisture, such as basements or mudrooms, consider applying a waterproofing solution to your floors. This added protection minimizes water-related damage. 7. Use Non-Slip Rugs and Pads Winter can make floors slippery, increasing the risk of accidents. Use non-slip rugs and pads to enhance safety while protecting your floors. Benefits of Preparing Your Floors Longevity : Proper preparation extends the lifespan of your flooring. Cost Savings : Avoid costly repairs or replacements caused by winter damage. Enhanced Comfort : Well-maintained floors contribute to a warm and inviting home environment. To explore durable and winter-ready flooring options, visit Floors for Less. Let us help you find the perfect solution for Madison’s challenging winters. FAQs About Protecting Floors During Freeze-Thaw Cycles What is the freeze-thaw cycle? It refers to the repeated freezing and thawing of moisture during winter months. How does the freeze-thaw cycle affect hardwood floors? It can cause expansion, contraction, and warping if floors are not properly prepared. What type of flooring is best for freeze-thaw conditions? Hardwood with proper sealing, waterproof tiles, and moisture-resistant materials work best. How can I prevent moisture damage to my floors? Use sealants, waterproofing solutions, and maintain proper humidity levels indoors. Should I use rugs during winter? Yes, rugs protect floors from scratches, moisture, and salt brought in from outside. How often should I inspect my floors in winter? Regularly check for signs of damage, especially after extreme weather changes. Are waterproof flooring solutions worth it? Yes, they provide added protection against water damage and are ideal for high-moisture areas. Preparing your hardwood floors for Madison freeze-thaw cycle is essential to protect your investment and ensure your home remains cozy and safe throughout the winter. Contact Floors for Less today for expert advice and premium flooring solutions!
