Daily Hardwood Floor Maintenance Part 2

In this two part series we are discussing the simple daily ways you can ensure a long life for your wood floor. Yes, major maintenance considerations are important, but they aren’t practical for guarding against damage on a consistent basis. Here in Part 2 we will discuss how to plan for objects that sit on top your floors and how to move things around. Even if you are the busiest multi-tasker you know, you will be able to be mindful of these easy guidelines. 

ON TOP 

• High heels, especially stilettos, damage floors. More so than you might think! They can cause small indentions and divots that are too deep to easily repair. There are two options for prevention. Taking them off before walking on the floor for extended periods of time, or purchasing heel protectors that slip over the heel tip. 
• Make sure Fido has his nails trimmed all the time. Indoor pets are on your floors all day long, and they can do a lot of long term damage if their claws look more like talons. 
• Use appropriate covers on the feet and legs of all of your furniture. Especially the heavy stuff. 
• Use wood floor approved mats in spaces where water is certain to splash from time to time. 

MOVING THINGS AROUND 

• Serious scuffing can occur if you shove your furniture around at will. There are multiple products on the market that are designed for moving objects across the room safely. Be sure to check with the manufacturer to find the best product to use with your floor. 
• Rearrange your room on a regular basis so that your wood floor ages and wears evenly. 
• If objects need to be move through your wood-floored room, have a plan of action that includes a dolly. The wheels of the dolly can do damage too, so consider laying down a material on which the dolly can be driven. 

See, it’s simple to be a good floor caretaker! Trends may change, and so might your taste and style, but your floor is meant to be there for the long haul. Don’t forget to read Part 1 of the Daily Hardwood Floor Maintenance guide.