Recommendations
· Avoid wearing street shoes inside the house, especially high heels.
· Remove dust and abrasive particles on a daily basis or as needed.
· Use only approved floor cleaner for your specific species and product.
· Spray floor cleaner directly onto micro-fiber mob head, not on the floor
· Place rugs or mats in front of sinks, refrigerators and entry doors.
· Apply Floor Protectors to the legs of furniture and chairs to protect hardwoods.
Avoid the following actions
· Using a very wet mop on a hardwood floor. Excessive water causes wood to expand and can damage the floor.
· Using vinegar and water to clean the hardwoods.
· Using harsh household detergents, ammonia-based cleaners, bleach or abrasive cleaners that will damage the surface.
Dents
Placing heavy furniture or dropping heavy or sharp objects onto hardwoods can result in dents.
Expansion and Contraction of Wood
Wood will expand and contract seasonally. You may hear some creaking or cracking sounds at times when ypu walk on your hardwood floors as the wood settles.
Your family living patterns: cooking, showering, laundry and pets also affect moisture levels in the home, and thus your hardwood floor. Keep the relative humidity between 30-60%. Humidity can be measured with a hygrometer. Inexpensive versions are available at electronics stores. Keep your house between 60-72 degrees Fahrenheit. Expect some shrinkage around heat vents or any heat-producing appliances. Contraction occurs most frequently during the winter months when the heating system causes drying of the wood. This condition is typically self-corrected with the humidity of summer.
Mats and Rugs
Rugs or mats may be used in areas where repeated moisture could damage hardwood. Do not allow the moisture to saturate the rug. Expect some slight discoloration under the rugs from lack of ultraviolet exposure.
Spills
Clean up spills immediately with a dry cloth. Make sure to dry floors.
Sun Exposure
Exposure to direct sunlight can cause irreparable damage to hardwood floors. To preserve the beauty of your hardwood floors, install and use window coverings in these areas.
Warping
Warping will occur if the floor becomes wet or is thoroughly soaked even once.