When it comes to the flooring in your home, you only want the best. So, most homeowners prefer a hard floor. It has an impressive lifespan and is an ideal long-term investment. If you can care for it well, you will not be disappointed with a hardwood floor. Besides increasing the home’s value, it will add to the aesthetics of your home and needs little maintenance. The advances in finish type and the different varieties of flooring available in the market make it easier for you to care for the floor. A lower-grade hardwood floor will last anywhere between 25 to 30 years, while a better-quality wood flooring will last 50 years or more. Hardwoods like maple, hickory, and oak withstand heavy traffic and are ideal for large families. If you have a hardwood floor in your home and are looking for ways to extend its life, here are a few tips to help you.
Sanding Hardwood Floor With The Grinding Machine.
Pick a durable variety
The easiest way to extend the life of your wood floor is to pick the best hardwood flooring available in the market. When you look at the species, try to get the highest rating and it could be either oak or maple. On the other hand, if you pick a softer wood like cherry or walnut, it will be prone to dents or scratches and will reduce the lifespan of the floor.
Pick a strong finish
The experts at Arizona Hardwood Floor Supply state, “If you want to enhance an already durable wood flooring, ensure it has a water-based finish. This will give it a protective layer and shield it from stains, scratches, or spills.” It will provide superior resistance to the daily wear and tear while extending the floor’s life.
Re-coat the floors
You might consider refinishing or re-coating the wood floors every few years. When you have a lesser grade flooring, this can be a great way to extend its lifespan. It will restore the protective layer and ensure it looks fresh. Re-coating is a simple process. You need to apply a fresh coat of finish to improve its appearance and resistance to wear. On the other hand, refinishing is about removing the old finish and then applying a new one. If the floor shows signs of wear, you might want to refinish and not re-coat.
Avoid spills
While it may not be possible to avoid spills completely, you need to wipe them up as soon as they occur. Water can make the floor warp, and even rot in case of extreme situations. Hence, make it a point to wipe the spills right away. If you let them sit on the floor longer, they will face more damage. When installing hardwood in areas like basements and bathrooms, you must look for water-resistant material. It may not last as long, but it is a better choice.
Clean the floor right
Yes, sweeping and dusting the floor is an important part of maintaining it. Remember to avoid the vacuum cleaners that come with beater bars because they will cause harm to the finish. You can use a microfiber dust mop or even a soft-bristled broom to get the job done. When using a wet mop, ensure it is only damp and not excessively wet. Use the right kind of cleaning products that are specially made for hardwood floors. Do not use homemade solutions like vinegar, as it can do more harm than good.
Prevent damage
To keep your hardwood floor in the best condition, you also need to take the necessary steps to prevent damage. You can do this by placing a doormat at the entrance to keep the dirt, moisture, and debris away from the floor. Use area rugs to give it an additional layer of protection. Do not use harsh chemicals on the floor, and try to maintain a little humanity to prevent the floor from drying out.
No matter the type of flooring you have, regular maintenance and preventive measures will help ensure the flooring lasts for years. It all begins with choosing the right type of material and looking after it well. Preventive measures like rugs or installing floor protector pads on the bottom of the furniture will make a vast difference.
Besides helping you save on the cost of replacement of the floor, you will also be able to improve the value of your home. These are a few ways you can ensure that the hardwood floor lasts for decades and enjoy the beauty of the wood for many years. However, despite taking preventive measures, if you continue to see damaged floors, you need to speak to a professional and ask them to help you with refinishing or replacement, if necessary.
