Precautions to Use for Wood Floors
Stop Dirt and Grit
It doesn’t matter what finish you have on your floor, there is one thing to remember. Dirt and Grit act like sandpaper to destroy the protective surface of a wood floor. Vacuum, sweep, and dust mop regularly as described in the floor care section of this web site.
Apply Floor Protector Pads
All “moveable” pieces of furniture need soft clean pads on the bottom of the legs or supports. There are many kinds and sizes: EZGlides, Safeglides, Wood-Pro, Slip Stick. Examine the condition of these pads regularly for wear and grit.
Use Outside Door Mats
Dirt and grit from outside needs to be stopped at the door. Walk-off mats placed at each exterior door will trap harmful particles outside. A throw rug or small area rug just inside the door will add more protection.
Use Wood Floor Cleaners Made Only for Wood Flooring!
All cleaners are not the same. A cleaner made for wood cabinets or vinyl floors should not be used on your wood floors. Wood floor cleaners (i.e. Woodwise, Glitsa, Bona Kemi) are compatible with all top coating products on the market. Some generic cleaners purchased at supermarkets or hardware stores actually cause problems such as dullness and residue. Products containing oil or acrylic ingredients should not be used on polyurethane, Swedish finish, or water based urethanes.
No High Heels
High heels concentrate a person’s weight on a small point (estimate: 125 lb. Person = approximately 2,000 lbs per inch when taking a normal step). This kind of force can dent and pit wood, fracture ceramic tile, and perforate vinyl. While high heels in good repair may not damage wood floors, we recommend a “no high heels” policy.
NOTE: A piece of gravel in the sole of a normal shoe will cause the same damage as high heels.
Pets are Okay
 Dog and cat toe nails can scratch a wood floor. It is a good idea to trim them regularly and try to contain vigorous play to carpeted areas. Most toenail scratches are removed whenever a floor is top-coated with a fresh coat of finish. They can be buffed out of waxed floors as well. One of our customers has tried ingenious solution to the toenail problem. This Golden Retriever, Sadie, loves her socks!
Some finishes like urethanes and Swedish-type finishes are essentially waterproof. This is a great finish for pet households because pet urine will not hurt these floors if cleaned up soon. Also spills from food or water bowls are not usually a problem if wiped up within a reasonable amount of time.
Use Area Rugs
Some areas of the house experience more wear than others. Kitchens (especially in front of the sink) always have a lot of traffic. Area rugs can be used to protect high-traffic areas. Make sure they are kept dry and clean. Shake out and vacuum throw rugs frequently.
Be Careful When Moving Heavy Furniture or Appliances
Remember to pick up heavy furniture and do not slide anything across the floor. It is a good idea to rent a furniture dolly with soft rubber wheels or an “air sled.” See Woodwise Floorguards in our floor protection section. These “Floorguards” enable you to move your appliances forward for servicing without gouging your floor.
Use Trivets for Indoor Potted Plants
Never place plants directly on a wood floor even if they are in a waterproof saucer. Always use trivets or plant stands under the pot and saucer so that air can circulate underneath. This will prevent condensation on the saucer from damaging the wood floor. It will also be easier to see if the plant is over-watered or if water has spilled onto the floor.
Never Use Household or Wood Bleach on Stains
Often people asked us for help after they have been told by paint stores to bleach out stains in their floor. DO NOT USE BLEACH OR OTHER CHEMICALS to remove stains from wood floors. These chemicals break down the fibers and structure of the wood. The bleached area of the floor will not stain or look like the rest of the floor. You basically will have a larger, different looking stain now and one that will need board replacement for sure. Major stains from potted plants, pet urine, ink, burns, etc. in wood floors can often be sanded out in a localized area or by refinishing the whole room. Instead of bleaching, use a hand scraper and scrape the blade over the stain a couple of times. If you expose raw wood, then the area can be sanded and the stain removed. More difficult stains usually can be repaired by replacing the damaged boards.
Both of these processes are easy for an experience wood floor professional (list available National Wood Floor Association). “Blending” in of an area usually does not match well if the rest of the floor is over 2 years old. The whole room may need to be redone. Follow the recommendations of a professional.
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