As a homeowner it’s essential to know how to look after your home’s flooring. After all, it’s the foundation of your space. Let’s explore all the things you need to know about flooring maintenance so you can keep that new-floor feeling for years to come.
Firstly, it’s best to choose the right flooring material for your needs. Different materials have different needs so you may want to consider factors such as traffic, lifestyle, budget, and desired look before making a decision. It is also important to have realistic expectations about the amount of maintenance required of whatever material you do choose.
Once you have the right flooring material in place, it’s important to know how to properly clean it. Cleaning can be as simple as using a microfiber mop to sweep and dust on a regular basis. Or it could require more detailed maintenance such as using the manufacturer’s recommended cleaning product and avoiding severe damage caused by incorrect cleaning techniques.
It’s also important to protect your floor from additional damage that can be caused by furniture scraping and everyday wear and tear. Using non-abrasive floor protectors on furniture legs can help protect from scratches and scrapes. Refrain from dragging furniture whenever possible to avoid further scratches and dents.
Flooring maintenance also involves periodic inspections for damages caused by water and moisture. Look for signs of warping in hardwood floors, for example, which can be caused by too much exposure to water or humidity. Also be mindful of the different cleaning products that can be used by contractors during air conditioning or heating repairs as some of these products can cause staining or discoloration.
Be sure to check for signs of tile and grout wear as well. Loose grout could be a perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. Cracked or cracked tiles should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Finally, if ever in doubt about an issue, be sure to contact a professional for advice. Flooring maintenance, while easy, requires the right knowledge. A professional can provide advice on the best materials, cleaning techniques, and repairs if needed.
Weather can also take a toll on your floors so it’s important to know how to protect them against extreme weather conditions. For wooden floors, make sure to use products that provide UV protection and check for warping regularly. For stone floors, be mindful of products that contain acids as these can damage the surface.
Certain substances can also damage flooring, so you should make sure to use mats in areas where spills are likely to occur. Place mats near entry points and in front of sinks for example, so you can quickly mop up any mess before it has a chance to damage your floor.
It’s essential to be proactive about flooring maintenance to get the most out of your floors. Be sure to regularly inspect for any damages, keep them properly cleaned and protected, and inspect for extreme weather damage. Doing so will help keep that new-floor feeling for years to come.
Regular inspection of the subflooring is also essential for a long-lasting floor. If you notice any signs of water damage in the crawlspace, for example, be sure to contact a professional for the proper repairs as soon as possible.
Don’t forget about the area around the floor as well. Clean off dust and dirt from the surrounding areas regularly to keep your floors cleaner for longer.
Finally, consider the use of sealants and coatings. Using these products can help protect against stains and scratches, and also increases the durability and shine of your floor. Be sure to choose the right sealant or coating for the specific surface for optimal protection.
When it comes to proper maintenance, be sure to use the right cleaning products for the job. Traditional detergents and harsh chemicals can be damaging to certain types of flooring, so make sure to use the manufacturer’s recommended products whenever possible.
Regularly waxing and stripping can also help keep that new-floor feeling. Wax and polish surfaces that can handle these products, such as wood and vinyl, to keep them looking their best. And be sure to strip them when they start to look dull to restore their original luster.
Finally, don’t forget about the importance of professional maintenance. Scheduling a deep-cleaning session with a professional cleaner once a year can help restore your floor’s original shine and extend its life-span.
Good flooring maintenance starts with the right planning. Knowing the materials at your disposal and the specific needs of each will help you to make the most of them. Be sure to select the right materials for your home, clean and repair them as needed, use the right products, wax or strip when necessary, and hire a professional for deep cleaning when required. By following these steps, you can keep that new-floor feeling for years to come.