Timber Flooring: Protecting and Maintaining Your Surfaces for Optimal Performance

Proper maintenance of your finished timber floors will prolong the lifespan of the structure. If the floor is neglected, the wood will sustain damage due to abrasion from dirt and general stress from daily usage. You should also note that consistent care will ensure that the appeal of the surfaces is preserved. Poorly-kept floors tend to have scratches, stains and wear spots which cause a decline in residential aesthetics. If you have recently installed a timber floor in your home, you should consider using these simple tips to protect and maintain the surface.

Clean the Floor Regularly

Cleaning is an essential process in the maintenance of wooden floors. Regardless of the type of timber in your home, a standard cleaning method can be used to ensure ideal results. You should first sweep the floor with a soft broom or antistatic mop or vacuum. This process will remove abrasive particles which can cause the development of scratches. Then, you should use a damp mop to get rid of fine dust and general grime. If you need to clean the floor thoroughly, you should use a speciality timber cleaning product to promote optimal cleanliness without damaging the wood.

Protect from Water

Timber will experience accelerated damage after prolonged exposure to water. Therefore, you should make certain that your surface is protected from moisture. Remember, the consequences of water exposure might not be immediate. However, in the future, your wood might begin rotting, and mildew and mould might destroy the floor. In general, you should avoid wet mopping the surface; your mop should be barely damp. You should also keep an eye on spills. If you accidentally pour a liquid on the floor, wipe immediately to avoid absorption. Additionally, you should ensure that your surfaces are correctly finished with a protective coating.

Prevent Surface Abrasion

Finished wooden floors are vulnerable to damage from abrasive materials. Therefore, you should protect the surface to limit the need for constant refinishing and frequent repairs. The most common cause of abrasion is sand, dirt and debris from the outdoors. You should consider limiting the use of outdoor shoes in the house or at least placing mats at entrances. You should also avoid walking in the house in sharp-heeled shoes because they will damage the finishing. Furniture legs tend to leave scuffs and scratches when dragged on the floor. You should consider installing floor protectors beneath to minimise this detriment. 

Finally, if your floors sustain damage in the future, you should contact a professional about timber floor repairs.