how to make hardwood floors last longerHardwood is one of the oldest and most trusted flooring materials. When properly installed and maintained, hardwood floors will last over a century – as a matter of fact there are plenty of buildings today whose floors were installed in the early 20th century and are still exquisite. But in order for your floor to last that long and still maintain its flair and luster, there are a number of factors that have to be considered from purchase, installation, and maintenance of your hardwood floors.

Maximizing the Lifespan of your Hardwood Floors

Ideally, you want to take into account these factors when installing hardwood floor:

  • Color
  • Texture
  • Board width
  • Rigidity
  • Finish

Some types of finish are covered by the manufacturer for 10, 20, or even 50 years; however with premium solid hardwood and quality finish you can expect a much longer lifespan.

Installation
Poor installation can cause damage to the wood, lowering its projected lifespan. To prevent this, it is recommended that homeowners call in a professional hardwood flooring contractor who can follow all the instructions issued by the manufacturer. Low quality installation may also invalidate the existing warranty.

Keep in mind the condition or application of the room before performing installation. Wooden floors can suffer damage from excessive heat, light and moisture.

Maintenance
One advantage of hardwood floor installation is that it requires little maintenance. Periodic maintenance preserves the wood’s appearance and extends its lifetime significantly. There are two main elements that cause damage to hardwood floors:

  • Light: Use curtains or other means to prevent exposure to direct sunlight.
  • Humidity: Extreme fluctuations in humidity can also damage your floor; as well as water when left standing on the floor.

Wood is sensitive to changes in the natural environment and as such should be kept from experiencing random changes in heat, moisture levels, and sunlight. With minimal disruption, it can last long without showing signs of aging.

Tips to help care for your hardwood floor:

  • Wipe up water spills quickly
  • Block out rain water and moisture during the wet season
  • Vacuum the floor on a weekly basis
  • Use a no-wax cleaner to remove any residue from the floor
  • Don’t get furniture polish or hairspray on your floor
  • Use area rugs and door mats in high-traffic areas

Use the right tools for cleaning and maintenance to make the job easier and to get a lasting effect. Occasional hardwood floor refinishing ensures that your floor maintains its original gloss and covers unsightly dents. The more effort you put towards maintaining your floor, the better it looks and the longer it lasts.

For Outstanding Hardwood Flooring, Contact Elegant Floors for Installation, Refinishing and Repair in the South Bay

Elegant Floors has over 20 years of experience with hardwood flooring installation, refinishing and repair in the South Bay. Our philosophy is to offer the highest quality craftsmanship and customer service, while working with customers to maintain their projected budget and timetable. To speak with a representative today call 408-773-8624 or use our online contact form.

 

How to Maximize the Longevity of your Hardwood Floors