How to Protect Hardwood Floors

A Most prefinished wood floors come with a very protective layer included in the finishing process. Your particular floor uses an aluminum oxide layer that protects the wood against some scratching and some water damage.

To further protect this floor, I recommend these prevention methods:

• Use felt pads under chair and table legs.
• Place ventilated (not rubber-backed) rugs at all entryways and high-traffic areas. 
• Encourage family and guests to remove footwear at the doors.
• Keep your pets’ nails trimmed. 
• Sweep frequently to remove sand, dirt and debris. Any gritty buildup will act like sandpaper, scratching and dulling your floor’s finish.

The best method for keeping your new floor clean? Use a dry mop with a cleaning product specifically made for wood floors, such as Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner. This works best after you’ve swept up or vacuumed the major dirt. Don’t use ordinary household cleaners, especially those that are soap- or wax-based, as they can dull your floor’s finish.

Avoid leaving water on the surface. Although your new floor can withstand a little water for a short time, I advise that you wipe up spills quickly.

Wood floors, no matter how careful you are, will scratch. But that’s part of the appeal of using natural materials for flooring. Consider the scratches a natural and beautiful part of the aging process, adding character to your cabin.

Carol Marie Johnson is an interior designer for AB&K, www.abandk.com.