A wood floor adds a touch of luxury to any custom home, and if you made this choice when building, it’s important to maintain your floors in the years ahead. This job can be extra challenging when you have children and pets. The team at Alair Homes Winnipeg offers the following tips on maintaining the beauty of your floor.
Daily Care
The best thing you can do for your floor each day is to take off your shoes when entering the house. This has become a common practice, so do not hesitate to ask your guests to do the same. Removing shoes will lower the risk of scuff marks and prevent dirt and debris from being tracked inside. Clean up spills right away, and always use mild cleaners.
Dust Mop and Vacuum
Using a dust mop every few days will remove crumbs, dust, dirt and animal hair. Be sure you use mop cloths that are either disposable or electrostatic. Vacuum up the debris piles. Sweeping should be avoided because it spreads the dirt around and pushes particles into the air. It can also scratch the floor.
Monthly Cleaning
Every four to six weeks, clean the floor with an appropriate product. Make sure that you follow all of the directions to get the best results. Do not use too much water when cleaning, and do not leave water standing, as this will cause permanent damage. Sponge mop each area, and rinse as much as necessary.
Remove Marks and Scuffs
Your custom home is a fresh start, and the last thing you want to see are marks and scuffs on your floor. The best way to avoid this problem is to not wear your shoes indoors and to pick up items rather than dragging them. Place felt pads under all furniture legs to protect your floors when moving furniture. If you do end up with scuffs, clean them in the following ways:
• Using a pencil eraser on small marks. This is simple and takes almost no time.
• Using a special eraser for bigger and more obvious scuffs. You can find this product at any hardware or home improvement store.
• Using acetone for the very stubborn scuffs, although you must be careful not to use too much or leave it on too long. It can dry the wood out and cause damage. Apply an oil-based solvent to restore the look of the wood floor after this step.
• Using a paste made from vinegar and baking soda. Place the paste on the scuff, and leave it for an hour. It can then be cleaned up with a paper towel or a dish rag.
You invested in a wood floor because it is the perfect accent to your custom home. By following the care tips above, you can keep your floor looking beautiful well into the future, extending the aesthetic appeal of your home and providing your family with a durable surface to walk on. If you have further questions about your wood floors, speak with your project manager, or contact the team at Alair Homes Winnipeg.