Most hardwood floors are inherited. Passed down from homeowner to homeowner. That means you haven’t had to make the tough choices like picking wood or picking a color. All you have to do is be proactive and help maintain your existing hardwood floor.
No shoes policy
Sweep, vacuum, dry and damp mop your floors regularly.
In an active home with kids and pets and friends and family stopping by, your hardwood floors are the first to suffer. No matter how strict your “no shoe policy” or how many times you yell “wipe your feet!!”, dirt and debris are going to be dragged inside. And, how many times have you run outside in bare feet, only to run right back in? Sure, you’re not wearing shoes, but dirt will still stick to your feet.
Strategically placed mats and rugs
All we’re trying to say it, your floors are going to get dirty. The best defense is a great offense, as they say. Put down rugs where there is heavy foot traffic. Your guests may take their shoes off, but they still walk into your hallway. Stay one step ahead of dirt, and put down a pre-emptive door mat.
Dry or damp mop your hardwood floors
You won’t be able to eliminate all dirt, but you can be proactive about sweeping and dry mopping on a regular basis. Especially if you have hardwood floors in your entryway or kitchen.
Your kitchen is a high traffic area. Be sure to clean regularly to extend the life of your hardwood floors.
Photo: Reclaimed oak kitchen project
Don’t be tempted to use chemicals to wash the dirt away. When you need something with a little more cleaning power than your broom or vacuum cleaner you can clean with a damp mop or cloth. Use a simple, non-toxic solution like water and vinegar to clean and disinfect tougher stains or more deep-seated dirt.
If you’re not a fan of the smell of vinegar, try lemon juice instead. Your floors will smell fresh and clean, and you won’t be breathing in toxic fumes from chemical cleaners.
Sand and refinishing services in Colorado
For existing floor services in the Colorado area, schedule a free consultation with one of our hardwood flooring experts.