hardwood flooring installation

Protect Your Wood Flooring Installation From Damage

So, you've just installed new hardwood flooring, but you're worried about possible damage. While you could always force everyone to wear socks at home, including the dog, that may not be the most practical approach. Fortunately, our About Floors n' More Jacksonville, FL showroom pros have come up with this quick tip guide to help homeowners protect their stunning new wood flooring. Don't panic, we've got you covered!


Step One: Implement a Care Schedule


To maintain durability, shine, and luster, your wood flooring installation needs a care schedule, as it requires regular attention. Aside from the typical sweep and mopping, keep in mind that your surfacing will most likely need a new layer of finish every 5-7 years, to protect the deeper sections of the planks. If your surfacing has a wax layer, another layer should be added every year or so. 


Although your surfacing will last for generations to come, it does need some TLC in order to last for generations come! So, be consistent with a maintenance schedule to ensure your surfacing looks lovely and has a long life. 


Step Two: Prevent Scratches


Do you have a dog or cat? Well, if you do, their claws can be a source of anxiety when combined with hard surfacing like engineered hardwood. As such, minimize the stress on your poor nerves by keeping their nails trimmed, or using nail caps. Imagine the damage long, sharp claws can do to surfacing, especially with larger, heavier breeds. 


Aside from animals, prevent scratches with felt pads. Go ahead, place them on any item that touches your precious surfacing! Tables, chairs, sofas, armoires, shelves, if it's not floating in mid-air, you should probably add felt pads to it. But remember, just because there's a protective pad, that doesn't mean you should drag items across the room!


Step Three: Purchase Carpets and Rugs


Lastly, carpets and rugs will save you a heap of trouble in the long run. They should be placed in rooms that see a lot of foot traffic, or entryways where people leave their shoes and boots. Don't be embarrassed to ask visitors to remove their shoes, but if you are, simply explain why you have a "no shoe" policy.