Once you have chosen and installed your new wood flooring it’s important to remember that there are different types of finish to enhance them. And to maintain their appearance there are a few simple tips to keep them looking as good as new. Here is some advice to help you get the best from your wood flooring.

A choice of finishes

Because of the unique characteristics of each species of wood all floors have a different grading for their hardness and resistance to wear, although their natural properties can be greatly enhanced by the type of finish apply to them. We can advise you on the effects of oiled, stained, lacquered and waxed treatments depending on your project or environment to ensure stunning results and protection for your floor. Our experts will be pleased to assist with your choice, just ask!

Dirt and grit

Whatever finish you have on your floor it’s important to remember that dirt and grit act like sandpaper to destroy the protective surface of a wood floor. Vacuum, sweep or dust regularly using the OPTI SET mop by Osmo®. When necessary, wipe clean with Osmo® Wash & Care added to water; for more stubborn marks try Osmo® Liquid Wax Cleaner, both also applied using the OPTI SET mop. Do not use strong household detergents as this will remove the surface coating. We recommend and stock the Osmo® range of products.

The use of door mats

Reduce the volume of dirt and grit from outside areas by using walk-off mats placed at all exterior doors.

Apply Feltgard® floor protector pads

All moveable pieces of furniture need soft, clean pads on the bottom of the legs or supports. We recommend and stock Feltgard® products in our showroom.

High heels

High heels concentrate a person's weight on a small area and this kind of force can dent and pit wood floors, fracture ceramic tiles and perforate vinyl. While high heels in good repair may not damage wood floors, we recommend a 'no high heel' policy!

Pets

Dog and cat claws can scratch a wood floor so it’s a good idea to trim them regularly – or encourage vigorous play outside!

Heavy wear

Some areas of the house experience more wear than others. Kitchens, especially in front of the sink, always have a lot of traffic. A hardwax oil is the best finish in this situation, keep coatings topped up so the surface never wears through.

Care when moving heavy objects

Remember to pick up heavy furniture and do not slide them across the floor. It is a good idea to rent a furniture ‘dolly’ with soft rubber wheels or an 'air sled'. Floor guards enable you to move your appliances forward for servicing without gouging your floor.

Cracks in the floor

Wood floors are very sensitive to their surrounding climate. Seasonal cracking is a common occurrence. They expand in humid conditions in summer and contract when the air becomes dry, usually due to central heating being on in winter. Using a humidifier or dehumidifier in conjunction with a heating/cooling system is recommended to keep a constant 30% to 50% humidity level. This will minimise shrinkage, expansion and cracking. Try and avoid extremes of temperature and humidity.

Scratches

The most important thing to do about scratches is to find the cause and take preventative measures to remedy the problem. Scuffing or high traffic wear areas mean gritty shoes or dirty floors. A throw rug may be needed to protect from further damage.

Lightly scratched areas, which have not worn down to the raw wood, can sometimes be buffed. This will shine up the area and match the sheen of the rest of the floor making the damage less obvious, try OSMO® Liquid Wax Cleaner after applying Wash & Care. A deep scratch or gouge often cannot be repaired as easily, especially on a lacquered floor. Usually the only solution is to putty the mark and wait to fix it when other work is done on the floor. Repairs often show more because the newly repaired wood does not match the existing, older floor colour. However with an oiled floor it is sometimes easier. The floor can be repaired and the specific area blended with the existing floor by re oiling.

If the damage is more severe than this then it is best to consult a professional. In extreme cases the floor can be completely sanded and resealed. The beauty of a real wood floor is that it can be restored to its original state quite simply. Even with normal wear and tear an oiled floor should have a light maintenance oiling once a year and a lacquered floor will benefit from resealing, approximately every 5 to 7 years. In both instances this will ensure many years of extended pleasure.

Moisture

Moisture is the biggest enemy of timber, but there is no problem provided excess moisture is not allowed to stay in contact with the floor for prolonged periods. Any spillage should be quickly removed with an absorbent cloth or mop.

Indoor potted plants

Never place plants directly on a wood floor even if they are in a waterproof saucer. Always use trivets or short stands under the pot and saucer so that air can circulate underneath. This will prevent condensation on the saucer from damaging the wood floor. It will also be easier to see if the plant is over watered or if water has spilled onto the floor.