|
Available in PDF format HERE
Hardwood flooring, unlike other types of floor coverings
can be kept looking new, regardless of wear, with a minimum
amount of effort. To protect against damage, just follow
some basic, common sense guidelines. If your floor happens
to get damaged, don't panic. One of the benefits of wood
flooring is that because it is a natural flooring material,
it can be repaired and/or refinished to look just like
new. Adhering to the following preventative care guidelines
will lengthen the time between (and perhaps even eliminate
the need for) major renovation or restoration such as
recoating or refinishing.
Protect Your Floor with Rugs and Mats
Don't allow dirt and grit to be tracked on your floor.
Place doormats at all door entrances to trap dirt.
Dirt and grit are a floor's worst enemy. Make sure
you keep doormats and rugs clean.
Use the Right Cleaning and Maintenance Products
Make sure you follow all product labels and use only
products designed for wood floors. A damp mop may be
used for clean-up, but don't use excessive water that
can stand on your floor. Sweep, dust-mop or vacuum
your floor regularly, but do not use household dusting
products, because they can cause your floor to become
slick and may damage the finish. The use of Somerset's
specially formulated Ultimate™ care products
will ensure that your floor is properly maintained.
Use Furniture Protectors
To avoid scratching and damaging the floor's surface,
place self-adhesive felt furniture pads or other protective
pads such as gray rubber non-marking casters on chair
and table legs and any other furniture surface that
could possibly cause damage when moved across the floor.
Be sure to keep the pads clean and free of grit and
dirt. Don't use ball-type casters or casters made of
hard materials such as plastic or metal — these
can damage your floor.
Watch Your Shoes
Make sure the heels of your shoes are in good repair — especially
high heels. Heels that are missing their caps or are
worn through exposing metal or other abrasive surfaces
can cause scratches and dents on any floor's surface.
And, of course, never walk across your floor in shoes
that have cleats or spikes.
Wood and Water Don't Mix
Never allow water to stand on a hardwood floor for any
length of time. Also, don't ever pour water on your
floor — it can cause damage to the wood's structure
and to the finish. A slightly damp mop or rag may be
used for clean-up, but the floor should be dried thoroughly
afterward and no excessive water should be present
on the floor.
Protect from Spills in the Kitchen
Place rugs or mats in areas that are prone to spills,
such as in front of the sink, refrigerator and stove.
Cotton mats are recommended because they're easily
cleanable. Mats with rubber backings can trap moisture
on the floor and cause damage.
Move Area Rugs Regularly
When exposed to ultraviolet (sun) light, wood's natural
oxidizing properties can cause the color of your floor
and finish to change, taking on an age-worn patina.
To keep a consistent color across your floor, rotate
area rugs on a regular basis and use window coverings
to protect against sun exposure.
|
