Maintaining Your Hardwood
Cleaning
Only use cleaners approved by the manufacturer. Never wash your
hardwood floors with water or with any products such as oil soap or
swiffers, etc. This may result in loss of warranty.
Grit, dirt and sand may scratch your floor, so use mats at entrances to
keep grit and moisture from being tracked in. Be sure to vacuum your
floor frequently with a soft brush attachment.
Care
High heels, hard sole shoes and certain types of casters should be kept
directly off hardwood because they may damage or dent your floors.
Appliances should be moved using floor protection such as glide guards
or hardboard strips that are at least 6 inches wide. Felt pads or
floor protectors should be used under furniture to minimize scratches.
Humidity
Your Hardwood floor can be affected by both the heating and non-heating
seasons. Wood floor dimensions can be affected by varying levels of
humidity. Care should be taken to control humidity levels within the 30
to 40 percent range. The responsibility for humidity control must
remain with the owner, as it is a situation beyond the installers
control. The use of a humidifier is mandatory and it should be one
that is professionally installed and maintained. The purchase of a
hygrometer is also highly recommended.
Heating Season (dry):
A humidifier is required to minimize shrinkage due to low humidity
levels. Wood stoves, in floor heating and electric heat tend to create
very dry conditions. Gaps between the boards may develop despite best
efforts. If this situation continues it may result in an expensive and
non-warranty repairs.
Non-Heating Season (humid):
Proper humidity levels can be maintained by using an air conditioner or
a dehumidifier or by turning your heating system on (summer fan).
Avoid excessive water from being tracked in during periods of inclement
weather. Do not obstruct, in any way, the expansion joints around the
perimeter of your floors.
