Guide to Maintaining Your Finished Hardwood Floors
Guide to Maintaining Your Oil-Based Polyurethane Finished Hardwood Floors
By Rick Blackney, Second-Generation Wood Floor Installer/Refinisher Based in Napa
As a trusted name in the hardwood flooring industry, I, Rick Blackney, have helped countless customers in Napa enhance the beauty of their homes with my expert wood floor installation and refinishing services. One of the most common finishes we apply is oil-based polyurethane, known for its durability and classic, warm glow. However, to keep your oil-based polyurethane finished hardwood floors looking their best, regular maintenance is key. Here is a guide to maintaining your floors to preserve their beauty and longevity.
Regular Cleaning
Sweep or Dust Mop Daily: Frequent sweeping or dust mopping helps remove dust, dirt, and other particles that can scratch the surface of your hardwood floors. Use a soft-bristle broom or a dust mop designed for hardwood floors.
Vacuum Weekly: A weekly vacuuming using a soft brush attachment can remove grit from crevices that sweeping or dust mopping may miss. Remember to turn off the beater bar to prevent scratching your floor's finish.
Deep Cleaning
Use a Hardwood Floor Cleaner: Deep clean your floors monthly or as needed using a cleaner specifically formulated for hardwood floors. Avoid using water, vinegar, or steam as these can dull your oil-based polyurethane finish or even damage the wood.
Preventive Measures
Use Protective Pads: Protect your hardwood floors from scratches by using felt pads on the bottoms of furniture legs. Be sure to check and replace these pads regularly as they can wear out over time.
Limit Sun Exposure: Direct sunlight can cause your hardwood floors to fade over time. Use curtains, blinds, or UV-protective window coatings to limit your floor's exposure to sunlight.
Maintain a Stable Environment: Extreme changes in temperature or humidity can cause hardwood floors to expand or contract, leading to warping or gaps. Try to maintain your home's humidity level between 35% and 55%, and avoid large temperature swings.
Dealing with Spills and Stains
Act Fast on Spills: If liquid spills on your hardwood floor, wipe it up immediately with a soft, dry cloth. Never allow water or other liquids to sit on the surface of your hardwood floor.
Address Stains Promptly: If your hardwood floor gets stained, clean the stain as soon as possible using a hardwood floor cleaner. For stubborn stains, you may need to lightly rub the stain with a fine steel wool pad along the grain of the wood, then reapply a matching oil-based polyurethane finish.
Refinishing
Consider Refinishing: Over time, your oil-based polyurethane finish may wear off, especially in high-traffic areas. Consider having your floors professionally refinished every 5-10 years, or whenever you notice significant wear.
Hardwood floors are a beautiful and valuable addition to any home. With proper maintenance, your oil-based polyurethane finished hardwood floors can last for generations. Remember, every floor is unique, and the best care comes from understanding its specific needs. Don't hesitate to contact a professional like me, Rick Blackney, for advice on maintaining your hardwood floors.