Hardwood floors are a beautiful and durable flooring option that can add value and style to any home. However, they are also susceptible to damage from various sources, including foot traffic, moisture and furniture. If you want to keep your hardwood floors looking great for years to come, it’s important to take preventative measures. Below, we’ve outlined five tips to help you do just that.

• Use Furniture Pads

One of the most common sources of damage to hardwood floors is furniture. Heavy furniture can scratch and dent hardwood floors, especially if it is dragged or moved without proper protection. To prevent this, use furniture pads underneath the legs of all your household furnishings; these pads can be found at most DIY shops and are extremely easy to install. They come in a variety of materials - such as felt or rubber - and will help to distribute the weight of the furniture evenly, therefore reducing the risk of damage.

• Be Diligent About Spills

Water and other liquids can quickly seep into the grain of hardwood floors, which can lead to warping, cupping and staining. To avoid this, it’s important to clean up spills as soon as possible. Use a soft, absorbent cloth to soak up the liquid, and then apply a hardwood floor cleaner to remove any residue. Finally, be sure to dry the area thoroughly with a clean, dry cloth.

• Avoid High Heels & Shoes

High heels and shoes with sharp heels or soles can easily scratch and dent hardwood floors. Consider enforcing a no-shoe policy in your home, or even providing slip-on covers for guests to wear over their shoes. If you must wear shoes on your hardwood floors, choose footwear with soft rubber soles that will be gentle on the floor.

• Invest in Rugs & Mats

Rugs and mats can help to protect hardwood floors from scratches, dents, and other damage. Place them in high-traffic areas such as entryways, hallways and in front of the sink or stove in the kitchen. Be sure to choose rugs and mats that have a non-slip backing to prevent slipping and tripping.

• Maintain Proper Humidity Levels

Hardwood floors are susceptible to changes in humidity levels, which can cause them to expand and contract. This can lead to gaps between the boards and even warping or cupping of the boards. Maintaining suitable humidity levels in your home is a great way to prevent this from happening. Ideally, the humidity should be between 35-55%. You can use a humidifier or dehumidifier to achieve this level. Additionally, avoid exposing your hardwood floors to extreme temperature changes, such as blasting the air conditioning in the summer or cranking up the heat in the winter.

Quality Hardwood Floor Refinishing in London

Taking preventative measures can go a long way in preserving the beauty and longevity of your hardwood floors. However, if you do find that your flooring has incurred damage, fear not: there is a solution. If you live in London, Wooden Flooring Experts perform premium-quality hardwood floor sanding and repairs services to restore your floors to their former glory. We are experts in all things wood, so no matter what unique properties your flooring possesses, our team is capable of treating it with the utmost care and skill. For more information, contact us today.