Wood flooring of all types is an attractive choice for many homeowners. Generally wood flooring is very low maintenance flooring option and even after aging, a quality wood floor will still hold its charm.
However, to ensure a long lasting wood floor there are some simple care and maintenance tasks that will ensure your wood floor looks new for as long as possible.
This article will cover the basics of wood flooring maintenance and care for all types of wood floors including: Hardwood, Engineered, Laminate, Vinyl, and bamboo.
Table of Contents
This article is just one in a series of wood flooring articles designed to help you through every step of your wood flooring project so you can start with confidence and love the end result.
For a complete guide on installing wood flooring in your home, start to finish, check out our other articles here (depending on your wood flooring type):
DIY Renovator Workshops: Hardwood flooring
DIY Renovator Workshops: Engineered Wood flooring
DIY Renovator Workshops: Laminate flooring
DIY Renovator Workshops: Luxury Vinyl flooring
DIY Renovator Workshops: Bamboo flooring
Why Care for Your Wood Flooring?
Wood flooring is generally very durable and with a little care can last a lifetime. However, regular care and maintenance are essential to:
- Preserve its finish and color.
- Prevent scratches and damage.
- Extend its lifespan.
- Maintain a polished, professional look.
Daily Wood Flooring Maintenance & Care Tips
Sweep or Vacuum Regularly
Why
Dust, dirt, and debris can act like sandpaper, scratching the surface of your flooring.
How
- Use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum with a hardwood floor attachment to remove particles.
- Avoid vacuums with rotating brushes or beater bars that can damage the surface.
Wipe Spills Immediately
Why
Some types of wood floors such as engineered, and vinyl are more moisture-resistant than solid wood, but prolonged exposure to liquids can cause damage to any type of wood floor.
How
Use a damp (not wet) microfiber cloth or mop to clean up spills. Follow with a dry cloth to remove excess moisture.
Use Floor Mats and Rugs
Why
Mats and rugs help trap dirt and absorb moisture, protecting high-traffic areas and entryways.
How
Place mats at doors and rugs in areas with heavy foot traffic. Opt for rugs with a non-slip, non-rubber backing to avoid discoloration.
Weekly Care Tips
Damp Mop the Floor
Why
A regular, gentle clean prevents buildup of grime and maintains the floor’s shine.
How
Use a damp microfiber mop with a manufacturer-recommended cleaning solution. Avoid excessive water, as standing moisture can seep into the seams.
Check for Scratches
Why
Small scratches can lead to larger damage over time if left unaddressed.
How
Inspect your flooring weekly and use a touch-up kit recommended by your flooring manufacturer to repair minor scratches.
Monthly and Seasonal Wood Flooring Maintenance
Deep Clean
Why
Periodic deep cleaning removes embedded dirt and rejuvenates the finish.
How
Use a specialized wood floor cleaner or follow manufacturer guidelines. There are many wood floor cleaning products on the market.
Make sure you are purchasing a clean that is specific to your type of wood floor. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers.
Monitor Humidity Levels
Why
Fluctuations in humidity can cause the wood veneer to expand or contract, leading to gaps or buckling.
How
Keep your home’s humidity between 30–50% using a humidifier in winter and a dehumidifier in summer.
Rotate Furniture and Rugs
Why
This prevents uneven wear patterns and fading caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight.
How
Move furniture and rugs periodically and use felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches.
Long-Term Maintenance
Reapply Finish
Why
- Over time, the protective finish on your flooring can wear down, leaving it vulnerable to damage.
How
- Not all wood flooring types can be re finished. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for refinishing.
- Hardwood and some engineered wood floors can be lightly sanded and refinished, while others may only require a new coat of finish.
Protect from Sunlight
Why
Direct sunlight can cause fading or discoloration of the wood.
How
Use curtains, blinds, or UV-protective window film to reduce sunlight exposure.
Avoid These Common Mistakes in Wood Flooring Maintenance
- Using Steam Cleaners
- Steam can penetrate the wood layers and cause swelling or delamination. Stick to damp mopping.
- Ignoring Manufacturer Guidelines
- Always check your flooring manufacturer’s care instructions to avoid voiding your warranty.
- Using Harsh Cleaners
- Products like ammonia or bleach can strip the finish and damage the wood.
- Dragging Furniture
- Always lift furniture when moving it, and use felt pads to prevent scratches.
Repairing and Refreshing Your Flooring
- Minor Scratches: Use a color-matched wood filler or touch-up pen to disguise scratches.
- Deeper Damage: Replace individual planks if the damage is significant. SureReno’s app provides step-by-step instructions on plank replacement.
- Revitalizing Finish: Consider applying a protective polish or recoating the floor to restore its sheen.
SureReno’s Edge: Your Flooring Companion
SureReno offers tailored advice, tips, and step-by-step guidance for all your flooring projects. From selecting the best cleaning solutions to recommending tools for repair, SureReno ensures that your engineered wood flooring remains in pristine condition.
Access detailed care routines, humidity calculators, and more to simplify your flooring maintenance.
Conclusions
By adopting these care and maintenance practices, you’ll keep your wood flooring looking stunning while extending its lifespan. With SureReno’s expertise and support, every DIY homeowner can achieve professional results. Happy flooring!
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