Wood flooring adds an earthy, rustic charm to any living space. Each type of wood has its own unique properties, offering a wide range of options to choose from. Whether you go for the classic hardwoods or opt for something a bit more exotic, here are 10 reasons to discover the beauty of wood flooring and maintain it:
1. Durability: Real wooden flooring is remarkably strong and can last for decades if it is looked after properly.
2. Versatility: This material comes in a variety of design styles, including engineered wood, solid wood, laminate, and parquet flooring.
3. Insulation: It keeps the room insulated from the outside cold temperatures, helping to keep heating bills in check.
4. Easy to maintain: Weekly sweeping and mops are all that is needed to keep the wood looking as good as new for years to come.
5. Home value: Wood floors are an investment. They add warmth and character to your home, making it more appealing to prospective buyers.
6. Comfort: You can walk around barefoot on a well-maintained wooden floor, and it’s much more pleasant than cold stone or tile.
7. Hygienic: In contrast with carpets, which can trap dust and allergens, a wood floor can be kept clean and free from germs.
In order to protect your wood flooring investment by extending its life, there are some steps you can take to keep your floor looking good and lasting longer.
1. Clean the floor regularly: Dust and debris can scratch and damage the surface. Usea good vacuum or dust mop regularly on your floor to avoid this problem.
2. Use rugs in areas of high traffic: Areas such as hallways and entryways get a lot of use. These are the areas that should get special attention with mats and rugs.
3. Avoid dragging furniture: Use felt pads to move furniture to protect the wood from scratches and dents.
4. Mop regularly: Usea slightly damp mop with a mild cleanser to keep your floors looking shiny and new.
5. Avoid wax buildup: Regular use of wax products could lead to dirt and dirt accumulation. Use vinegar and water for cleaning every few months instead of traditional wax.
6. Avoid abrasive cleaners: Never use harsh detergents, steel wool, or other harsh cleaning materials when cleaning wood floor.
7. Dress your floors with natural products: To give your wood floors a bit of love and to protect them, you can use natural, food grade oils such as tung oil, walnut oil, or linseed oil to nourish the wood and make them shine.
8. Consider a sealer: Sealing your wood floor with a sealant can help protect it from spills, dirt, and everyday wear and tear.
9. Fix any damage as soon as it appears: If you have noticed any scratches, dents or chips, repair them as soon as possible with a wood filler or putty. This will prevent further damage and restore the beauty of your floor.
10. Hire a professional: If you want a top-notch finish, it is always best to hire a professional. This ensures that the job is done properly and to a high standard.
When installing wooden floors, you should consider the colour and tone, the thickness of the boards and how they will be fixed. Local climate, moisture content in the air, and the material used to fill the gaps between planks can also affect the longevity and beauty of the wood floor.
It’s important to choose a good underlay as this will provide a cushioning effect and provide insulation. A quality underlay will help to reduce sound transfer and improve the longevity of the installation.
Once you have chosen a floor type and style, it’s important to factor in the cost of installation. This can involve the removal of existing flooring, preparing the subfloor, gluing or floating the boards, and cleaning up after the installation.
Finally, maintenance of wooden floors is essential. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and waxing and if necessary, hire a professional floor maintenance company. Regular maintenance ensures the long life and beauty of wooden floors.