What Can Damage Hardwood Floors and How to Protect Them?

Harwood is one of the most popular flooring types in the U.S. and can increase home value by 3-5 percent. Hardwood flooring is low maintenance, easy to clean, cost-effective, long-lasting, and durable when installed by professional installers in Santa Rosa.

Despite their durability, hardwood floors can get damaged. Not all scratches and unsightly marks can be sanded away by refinishing the floor. They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Instead of waiting for scratches to occur and then have your hardwood floor sanded for refinishing, why not prevent scratches from occurring?

Here are some things that can damage hardwood and what you can do about them.

Pet Claws

Dogs and cats have long, sharp nails that can leave unsightly marks on the hardwood. If your pet is fond of digging, it may try to scratch the floor with its claws. To prevent dogs or cats from scratching on your hardwood floor, keep your pet’s nails trimmed.

Pet Accidents

Pet accidents are inevitable. They can happen anytime, anywhere. Though hardwood floors can withstand occasional pet accidents, remember that pet urine can stain your hardwood, cause the wood to swell, and damage the finish.

If you do not immediately clean up an accident, it can soak deep down into the crevices, leaving behind odors. Clean the area immediately and sprinkle baking soda over it. Allow it to sit on the floor overnight to neutralize the odor.

High Heels 

Walking with high heels on hardwood floors is strictly advised against. Shoes with pointed edges can scratch your hardwood, leaving unsightly marks that can become worse over time.

Too Much Liquid Floor Cleaner

Hardwood floors need cleaning every 4-6 weeks. Use as little liquid floor cleaner as possible to clean your floors. Never drench your floors. Instead, clean small areas at a time. Use a clean, soft, and damp (not wet) cloth. Avoid pouring cleaning liquid directly onto your hardwood floor as it can cause it to swell, ruining its finish and look.

Heavy Furniture

When you sit on a chair placed on your hardwood flooring or move it, its feet can scratch the surface of your floor. To prevent scratches, use furniture pads on the legs of all the chairs. Never drag heavy furniture over your floor. Use felt pads when moving furniture or appliances.

Rugworks is a reputable hardwood flooring company in Santa Rosa. Our professionals handle your flooring installation project from start to finish, help you make informed decisions, and answer any questions you may have. To consult one of our flooring experts, call (707) 935-0648.