How to make the most of your wood floor installation

Wooden floors are a thing of beauty, whether it’s a solid wood or an engineered wood, they both offer timeless appeal. Carpet, linoleum, stone, and ceramic tiles are all viable other options for the home, yet the enduring appeal of wood has continued for centuries, with no sign of it diminishing any time soon. If you’re looking for inspiration, Pinterest is a great source for home decor imagery, with plenty of attractive wood floor installations to get you thinking!

A good quality wooden floor will last for decades – whereas homeowners often find themselves replacing a linoleum floor or carpet every few years due to stains, holes, and quick deterioration from wear and tear. When it comes to the kitchen, where cooking may result in spills, wooden floors require particular care and maintenance. It is advisable to avoid any form of organic flooring material in the kitchen, but if you do have a wood floors in the kitchen, it can still be made to function well with some careful preparation.

Here’s a list of precautions and tips that can help you to get the most out of your wooden flooring

1.Maintenance

Wooden floors actually look better as the years go by. Regular maintenance is required however, as they can be affected by water damage and attack from pests. It is recommended to use soft floor protector pads on the bottom of furniture legs. Not only do these protect the floor from scratching when pulling chairs in and out from under tables, for example, but also limit the impact of pressure on the floor. It’s also a very good idea to not drag furniture across a wooden floor where possible, so as to avoid more scratching. Instead just pick up furniture, rather than slide it across the floor.
2.Restoration

Wood floor restoration can be as simple as sanding and sealing your floor. It is extremely effective and will bring it back to life and make it look brand new. Restoration and regular maintenance will last longer than the average lifespan of a new carpet, so if your wooden flooring is lacking its original lustre after years of cleaning and heavy use, perhaps it is time to schedule a regular polishing session.

3.Regular Cleaning
Wooden floors are easier to clean than carpets, requiring the use of just a slightly damp mop to clean. In the case of spills, or if animals / children have dragged mud through the house, again just use a damp mop to remove dirt and debris with ease. A simple brush, or a light vacuum will keep your wooden floors looking great. It is not advisable to install wooden flooring in a room with high moisture such as a bathroom. This is because moisture makes wood swell, and makes it vulnerable to mould and mildew. In such areas, a rigid vinyl is more suitable, which closely mimics the appearance of real wood.

Real estate agents will tell you that a house with a wooden floor will be much more desirable on the market… So, with all this in mind, isn’t it time you opted for a new wooden floor installation? - Southern Cross flooring offers premium quality wooden floor installations, contact them today for expert help and advice.