General Care For Hardwood Floors
Regularly sweep or vacuum the
Hardwood floor to prevent sand or abrasive dust from accumulating and scratching
the finish.
Place doormats outside and rugs inside at every entrance of the house, again
to prevent sand or abrasive dust from accumulating on the Hardwood floor.
Place a rug in front of the kitchen sink, kitchen working stations, and the
dishwasher to protect the Hardwood floor from dropped kitchen accessories and
from water or oily detergent spills.
Use adequate floor protection (Hardwood floor protector pads) under all
furniture and chairs legs, in order to ease their movements and to prevent
scratching the Hardwood floor.
The relative humidity level in your home must be maintained at 45% (i.e.
40-50%) throughout the year. Hardwood is a living substance which reacts to
changes of relative humidity. It absorbs or releases humidity according to
seasons. Consequently, its dimension changes. In summer, when humidity is at its
highest, it is absorbed by the wood which then expands. These variations can be
minimized with proper ventilation, dehumidifying or heating. In winter, on the
other hand, when the heating system is on, the relative humidity level in the
house is much lower. It is then recommended to use a humidifier, in order to
minimize extreme shrinkage effects
Keep "high heel" shoes in good condition. Damaged or worn high heels may
expose a metal tip which will certainly damage your hardwood floor.
Protect your Hardwood floor against direct sunlight or any intense source of
artificial lighting. Over time, intense light will discolor exposed surfaces.
This phenomenon with Hardwood surfaces is normal and natural. The lighter the
color of the natural Hardwood, the more apparent this phenomenon will be.
Maintaining a Surface Finish for Hardwood Floors
Surface finishes are very popular today because they are
durable, water-resistant and require minimal maintenance.
Surface finishes are blends of synthetic resins. These
finishes are most often referred to as urethanes or
polyurethanes, and remain on the surface of the Hardwood
floor to form a protective coating. They are generally
available in high-gloss, semi-gloss and satin.
Maintaining a Wax Finish for Hardwood Floors
- Dust mop or vacuum regularly.
- Buff to restore shine. Waxing may be necessary when buffing
no longer restores shine.
- Apply a cleaner and liquid wax specifically for Hardwood
floors.
- Apply the wax evenly, allow the Hardwood floor to dry and
buff to the desired luster.
- If the hardwood floor has dirt build up or the wax is
discolored, use a combination liquid cleaner/wax made
specifically for Hardwood flooring.
- Make sure it is solvent rather than water base.
- Spread the liquid cleaner/wax with a cloth or fine steel
wool and rub gently to remove grime and old wax.
- Wipe the floor clean, let it dry for about 20 minutes and
buff.
- Depending on the traffic, a properly maintained Hardwood
floor should only need waxing once, or twice a year.
- Be sure to follow manufacturer’s directions carefully.
Stains:
Our high quality stains come in a variety of shades and patinas. They are designed to penetrate and seal the hardwood, while adding luxurious color. A coat of stain takes the place of a single polyurethane coat.
For more information, please contact us or call 201-446-9383 |
