Do you know the feeling you get when you step onto a nice fall? What, exactly, a nice floor is may depend in part on your personal preferences. Some people really like hardwood, while others think carpet is the premier type of flooring. Also, some types of flooring work better in certain rooms than in others. For example, hardwood looks lovely in a dining room but is not the best choice for a bathroom. As you can see, there is a lot to know about flooring. That's why we are proud to offer an array of articles all about flooring right here on this website.
Having Residential Hardwood Flooring Installed? 3 Tips To Keep It Safe
Hardwood flooring can add elegance and formality to your home, creating the type of indoor environment you are looking for. However, since wooden planks are a natural material, they aren't immune to damage, which can cause problems in the long run. Check out these tips for keeping flooring safe so you can protect your latest investment.
1. Watch the Water
After you have installed hardwood flooring, pay special attention to where water is going in your home. Try to avoid drips from the dishwasher and sinks, and do everything you can to prevent splatters. If possible, try to use a waterproof substance, such as a matching vinyl plank, in areas where the hardwood flooring could be damaged. Additionally, always keep your hardwood flooring well varnished so that it remains protected from accidental spills and drips.
2. Ask Everyone To Remove Their Shoes
Although you may feel silly doing so, try to institute a "no shoes allowed" rule. Ask people who visit your home to remove their shoes, and do everything you can to enforce the policy. Have a bench or chair near the door to make it easier for people to slip off their shoes, preventing abrasive dirt and grime from being tracked onto your new wood floors.
In addition to keeping scratches and scrapes to a minimum, asking people to remove their shoes could keep germ levels in your home down, since people won't be walking through your space with soiled shoes.
3. Pad Furniture Feet
One of the biggest offenders of scratched floors is actually your furniture, since it can be heavy and provide a great deal of friction when it moves across your floor. To avoid scrapes, always apply felt fabric feet or pads to the underside of your furniture items. When the pads wear out, replace them. Check your furniture regularly to ensure that the pads are still in place.
Keep in mind that some adhesives may be hard on painted surfaces, so in those cases, consider placing a small patch of carpet between your furniture and the flooring.
If you are thinking about bolstering your home's value with residential hardwood flooring, take the time to look at different flooring stores to get a better idea about the materials, colors, and textures available on the market. When you shop, ask about things like installation pricing and product availability so you understand how the project will progress. Reach out to a residential hardwood flooring installation company to learn more.