Protecting your floor is essential to preserving its beauty and prolonging its life. Here are some general tips for protecting your floor, but note that the precise method will depend on the type of floor you have:
Regular cleaning: Avoid the build-up of dust and dirt by regularly vacuuming or sweeping your floor. Dust can act like sandpaper, causing scratches.
Rugs and doormats: Place rugs and doormats at the entrance to your home to help trap dirt and moisture. This can protect your floor from damage caused by abrasive particles.
Soft-soled shoes: Avoid walking on your floor in hard-soled shoes, as this can cause scratches. Prefer soft-soled shoes or walk barefoot.
Chairs and furniture: Place felt glides under the legs of chairs, tables and other furniture to avoid scratches when moving.
Humidity control: Maintain a stable relative humidity in your home to prevent wood from expanding or contracting too much. Use a humidifier in winter and ensure adequate ventilation in summer.
Avoid standing water: Clean up water splashes immediately and avoid leaving standing water on the floor. Prolonged dampness can cause swelling and warping of the wood.
Suitable cleaning products: Use cleaning products specially designed for wood floors. Avoid aggressive cleaners that could damage the floor finish.
Quick repair: If scratches or minor damage occur, repair them quickly. You can use color touch-up products to hide minor imperfections.
Protective finish: Depending on the type of floor, consider applying a protective topcoat such as wax, oil or varnish to enhance resistance to scratches and stains.
Be sure to follow your floor manufacturer's specific recommendations for care and protection to ensure the best approach for your particular type of flooring.