5 Ways to Protect Your Hardwood Floors

Protect Hardwood Floor from Scratches

There are so many reasons that cause scratches to hardwood floors. Most reasons for scratches are from things that can easily be prevented. Shoes coming in from outdoors are one of the most popular reasons for scratches in your floor. There can be small stones or other particles stuck in the sole of shoes that will scratch hardwood floors once they are walked on. You can either ask people to remove their shoes before walking on the floor, or check the bottom of the shoes for any particles. Another reason for scratches is the movement of furniture on the floor. Try to place soft felt pads under furniture legs, or lift, not push, the furniture if you need to move it. One other reason for scratches to hardwood floors is the back of an area rug being against the floor. Many rugs contain a rough backing that is pressed against the floor when walked on. To prevent this, use a rug pad on hardwood floors to act as a barrier.

Prevent Fading to Hardwood Floors

A very common problem caused to hardwood floors is that of fading. Sunlight can do much damage to the floor finish and will fade the finish over time. The intensity and amount of time the sun hits the floor determines the range of the fading. To prevent and minimize any fading, use window covers and keep them closed during times of intense sunlight. If this is not possible, then you may apply a window film that prevents harmful sun rays entering and harming the floor. In any case, know that sun is the leading cause of fading to hardwood floors and try to divert it or prevent it from coming through the windows for long periods of time.

Clean Your Hardwood Floors Regularly to Prevent Buildup

Your hardwood floor can experience much traffic and shoes bring lots of dirt. Even if your floor looks clean, I assure you that dirt does build up and creates a film on your floor. Some of the dirt can be easily seen and vacuumed, while other dirt is less obvious. If the film of dirt builds up, it may be difficult to remove without the use of a buffing machine. To avoid this build up, it is a good idea to give your hardwood floors a deep scrubbing every two weeks. With a mop, use warm water or a water and vinegar mixture to scrub the floor. While the floor is damp, use a dry cloth to wipe dry. Do not allow the floors to dry naturally, as this will allow any dirt to remain on the floor.

Protect Your Hardwood Floors from Dents

Some hardwood floor species are softer than others and are susceptible to dents from furniture. Heavy furniture can actually push into the floor and cause dents. You should determine if this is the case with your furniture and if so, then you need to place something under the furniture legs. There are felt pads and furniture cups that are used for this purpose, yet it is best to find a furniture pad that prevents dents and slipping. This is ideally the most effective protection for your hardwood floors against furniture damage.

Use the Right Vacuum on Hardwood Floors

You may vacuum your hardwood floors to remove any dirt and dust. It is best to use a vacuum without the beater brush activated. Some vacuums do not have a brush and others have one that can be paused. The beater brush is great for rugs and carpet, yet it can scratch hardwood floors because there me be items trapped within the brush bristles that can scratch the floor. Based on this, always vacuum things directly off the floor with suction only, not with suction and brush.

If you have hardwood floors in your home, protect them with some simple prevention such as rug padding and proper maintenance. When your floors are treated right, they will offer a lifetime of performance and beauty.