If you’ve recently added engineered hardwood floor in your Toronto home, you’re probably very interested in doing what you can to keep them damage-free for as long as possible. The engineered hardwood flooring you’ve chosen can often be the final element that completes your décor and brings your space together. Know that whatever type of engineered wood flooring and finish you’ve chosen, it will need proper care as well as damage prevention tactics so that its natural beauty will stand the test of time.
Top Tips For Preventing Damage To Your Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Preventing scratches and dents can feel like a challenging task. Any sand, dirt, or sharp objects can scratch and damage your hardwood floor no matter the quality of the finish. Keep these tips top of mind and your engineered wood flooring will have a better chance of avoiding accidental damage.
- Clean your engineered hardwood flooring regularly.
Vacuum your wood floor weekly and sweep it daily, using a soft-bristled attachment or a broom, especially in high-traffic areas. Don’t use vacuums with a beater bar or power rotary brush head, as it will damage the surface of the hardwood floor. Regular vacuuming will help manage dirt and particle buildup that can scratch the surface.
- Use mats and protectors.
Place floor mats at entrance ways to collect dirt and debris from being tracked onto your floors. Use felt protectors or protective pads under all furniture legs to protect your engineered wood floor from scratches and indentations. Refrigerators and other heavy objects should never be moved without proper floor protection. Place them on a thick rug, back side up, and slide the rug so the weight is equality divided. If possible, use the method least likely to cause damage, which is picking up the furniture to move it.
- Managing pets and shoes.
Keep your pet’s nails trimmed and their paws clean. Pets can track things in that cause scratches and stains. Additionally, beware of sports cleats and high heels that can dent hardwood floor. Ask guests to remove shoes when visiting your home.
Possible Damage Caused By Humidity And Moisture
In addition to preventing scratches and dents from ruining the new engineered hardwood floors in your Toronto home, you’ll also have to be mindful of moisture and humidity. Wood is a natural material that reacts to changes in its environment. During Toronto’s hot and humid summers, know that excess moisture can cause your hardwood floor to expand and buckle. Similarly, water on the floor can also wreak havoc on wood floors.
Here’s how you can limit the effects of humidity and moisture:
- Maintain proper humidity levels with an air conditioner or dehumidifier.
- Avoid excessive exposure to water that can be tracked in during rainy days.
- Make sure your floors are properly installed so that there is expansion space around the perimeter.
- Use an area rug around the sink and dishwasher if you have engineered wood floors installed in your kitchen.
- Wipe up any liquid spills as soon as they occur.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring Adds Beauty To Any Home
It will take a bit of work and preparation to make sure your new engineered hardwood flooring remains in good condition. However, if you want to be sure that you start off on the right foot, have the flooring you select properly installed by a certified installation service. European Flooring’s installation service is certified by the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) and our teams complete rigorous training on the various methods of engineered wood floor installation. To find out more about European Flooring’s products or installation services, call our designer showroom at (416) 967-9200.