Hardwood floors can increase your home’s value, but if you don’t take good care of them, their value can go right out the window, or you can incur expensive replacement costs. So, how can you maintain the value of your hardwood floors for the long term?
- Don’t clean with vinegar, as the acidity will break down the finish over time. Instead, use diluted dish soap or a mild all-purpose cleaner.
- Avoid using excessive water when cleaning, as this can cause swelling and warping. Use a dampened microfiber mop, or if using a spray mop, less is more.
- Take off shoes indoors. The shoes themselves and the stuff they track in can cause damage.
- Use pads or rugs under furniture.
- Heavy furniture in the same spot for years can dent wood, so shift it a few inches every few months.
- Clean up spills immediately so they don’t stain.
- Keep pet nails trimmed to prevent scratches.
- Polish quarterly to add shine and extend the lifespan.
- Consider professional refinishing every 7 to 10 years, unless they are a ¼ inch thick or less, which could strip away the entire floor.
If you are considering hardwood floors but are concerned about the maintenance and/or cost, research other types of flooring, such as engineered hardwood, luxury laminate, or vinyl, which can mimic the look of hardwood but are generally cheaper and easier to maintain.