Since ancient times, hardwood flooring has been among the
most widely used floor coverings. This is because of its adaptability in terms
of form and function, as well as a built-in charm that lends each installation
a special personality and beauty. Whether your home has solid, engineered, or
reclaimed wood flooring, the fundamental cleaning regimen should be the same to
keep them looking pristine. Fortunately, the routine isn't too demanding.
However, there are still some details that are crucial for upkeep, which is why
we consulted the specialists.
Softwoods and Hardwoods
Materials for softwood flooring can be derived from a range
of species, the most popular of which being pine, fir, and cedar. These species
are widely distributed and have a tendency to mature quite quickly. However,
because of their quick growth, the wood itself becomes less dense and less
strong. Due to this, it may be prone to dents and scratches. It also makes
refinishing more difficult because sanding tools can quickly produce low
places. Due to the beauty and distinctive qualities of the material, many
individuals still opt to expose or preserve softwood flooring surfaces in their
homes in spite of these disadvantages. Because it can be obtained locally and
is quickly regenerated, the material is also more environmentally friendly.
Since hardwood flooring is made from slower-growing trees, it
is significantly denser and more durable than its softwood competitors. They
endure longer and require less care as a result. The National Oak Flooring
Manufacturers Association (NOMFA) uses the Wood Hardness Rating scale to assess
the real durability of different species.
How to Clean Hardwood Floors
Your home will have an earthy, cozy beauty thanks to hardwood
floors. They are enduring and, with proper maintenance, last for many years. By
using these hardwood floor cleaning suggestions, you can keep them looking
wonderful.
Step 1: Dust Wood
Floors
To quickly clean wood floors, use a mop that has been dusted
with a dusting agent to remove any dirt, pet hair, or other debris that could
harm the surface. The finest mop for hardwood floors is one that has a
microfiber head as an option. Dust and filth are captured by this substance. If
using wood floor polish or dusting sprays, follow the instructions provided by
the mop maker; certain mops won't need an additional cleaning agent.
Step 2: Vacuum Floors
Don't forget to vacuum your hardwood floors when thinking
about how to clean them. Utilize a vacuum with a floor-brush attachment for
weekly or biweekly cleaning. Use caution while using a vacuum since the beater
bar attachment can damage a wood floor's finish. Use disposable electrostatic
cloths for rapid dusting.
Sometimes when you’re so busy with your work and don’t have
enough time to take care of your hardwood floor then you can hire hardwood floor cleaning service in Dallas,
TX.
Know the warning signs
When it comes to maintaining spotless wood flooring, knowing
how to clean hardwood floors isn't the only thing to think about. The
surrounding environment plays a significant role in the maintenance and
durability of your floors. Even though they are beyond of your control,
temperature and humidity have a significant impact on how wood behaves.
Recognizing red flags is your best line of defense. The benefit of wood is that
it is a natural product and will communicate its unhappiness to you. The wood
will cup if there is an excessive amount of moisture on, around, or below it.
To avoid this, get rid of the water source, particularly any standing water.
Arid conditions cause splitting, cracking, and gapping.
Deep-Cleaning Hardwood Floors: How to Do It
Preventive measures and regular cleaning are the best ways to
keep hardwood floors clean, but occasionally a deep clean is required. A weekly
dusting won't get rid of all the dirt, grease, and grime that have accumulated
over time. Use a wood floor mop and a wood floor cleaning product diluted in
accordance with the label's directions for deep cleaning hardwood floors. This
cleaning could be best done in the spring or immediately before and after the
holidays.
Step 01: Wet the Mop
A sponge or rag mop should be thoroughly saturated in water
before being almost completely wrung dry.
Step 02: Damp Mop and
Rinse
To avoid leaving any standing water on the floor, damp-mop
it. Rinse the surface with clean water and a dry mop if the cleaning product
specifies it.
Step 03: Wipe up excess floor and let it dry
Excessive liquid should be wiped up right away since wood
surfaces can be harmed by standing water.
Use a ceiling fan or the air conditioner to hasten drying if
the weather is humid.
Hardwood Floor Cost
According to the type of wood you select and labor charges,
hardwood floors typically cost between $6 and $12 per square foot. When you
need your old floor removed and trim work done, the cost of a hardwood floor
can go to as much as $23 per square foot for materials and labor. The project's
overall price ranges from $2,300 to $6,000, with an average price of roughly
$4,200.
Hardwood Floor Design Options
Although hardwood floors are typically made of planks or
strips, some homeowners prefer geometric designs. Some people will employ a
diagonal pattern, a paquet pattern, or a hardwood floor-specific herringbone
design. Another design option for hardwood floors is chevron, and some people
opt for a checkerboard pattern that resembles Jenga pieces stacked up.
Hardwood Floor Installation
Hardwood floor installation is labor-intensive, especially if you intend to do it yourself. You must first remove your existing flooring before choosing how to install hardwood floors: tongue-in-groove, glue down, or nail down. As opposed to nail down, which needs wooden flooring and specialized instruments like a floor nailer, glue down and tongue-in-groove are simpler to install. If you decide on nail-down hardwood flooring, you might think about hiring someone to handle the labor to save you time and potential frustration.
