Hardwood flooring is a striking feature to add to your Edmonton home, and complements nearly every decorating style. It can even increase the resale value of your house. No matter how you look at it, hardwood is worth the investment, and if you follow some minor maintenance requirements, it can last for centuries. Here’s what you need to know to keep your hardwood in prime condition.
KEEP YOUR HARDWOOD DRY
Unlike other types of flooring, wood is porous, which means moisture can be absorbed into it. In fact, one of hardwood’s biggest enemies is water. Even a small spill can seep into the wood and cause permanent damage. This can lead to water stains, and in a worst case scenario, buckling and swelling. To keep your hardwood flooring in prime condition, ensure you do the following:
When water gets on your hardwood floor, clean it up immediately with a dry sponge or cloth
Invest in a wet vac in case of larger spills or floods
If your home is damp, consider getting a dehumidifier
Close your windows when it rains
USE THE RIGHT FINISH
There are different kinds of finishes that can be applied to hardwood floors. This will add a layer of protection against scrapes and dings. It’s recommended that you apply numerous coats of finish in high-traffic areas, and touch up as needed. Also remember that different finishes require specific cleaning products, and using the wrong one can damage your hardwood. When in doubt contact our flooring expert for advice. Here are the three types of finish most commonly used on hardwood:
Surface finish: These are urethanes or polyurethanes. They sit on the surface of the wood, creating a protective coating against water and wear, and require little maintenance.
Wax finish: Wax finishes soak into the floor and act as a seal. Wax has to be reapplied in thin layers regularly. Waxed floors require special cleaning solutions.
Acrylic impregnated finish: Mostly used in commercial settings, this finish is injected into the wood and creates a very hard, durable floor suited for heavy amounts of traffic.
GET RUGS AND FURNITURE PADS
Using runners and area rugs on your floors is an excellent way to prevent wear and tear. Here’s what you should do:
Place mats near sinks to guard against splashes
Get runners for hallways
Place a thick rug near doors where outdoor footwear is worn, and get a waterproof boot tray for bad weather
Be sure to put self-stick furniture pads on the feet of chairs and tables so they don’t scratch the floor when they get moved or bumped
When it comes to hardwood flooring in Edmonton, Alberta Carpet Centre Ltd has you covered. Contact us with all your flooring questions, including queries about tile, carpet, hardwood and laminate.