Engineered Wood Flooring Care
Introduction
Engineered wood flooring is a popular choice for homeowners because it is durable, easy to install, and relatively affordable. However, like all types of flooring, engineered wood requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. With proper care, engineered wood flooring can last for many years.
Cleaning
The most important part of engineered wood flooring care is cleaning. Regular cleaning will remove dirt, dust, and other debris that can damage the finish.
To clean engineered wood flooring, use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment. You can also use a damp mop with a mild cleaning solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the finish.
It is important to dry engineered wood flooring thoroughly after cleaning. You can do this with a clean towel or by opening windows to air out the room.
Protecting the Finish
The finish on engineered wood flooring is what protects it from wear and tear. To protect the finish, you should avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals. You should also avoid walking on engineered wood flooring with shoes that have hard soles.
If you need to move furniture on engineered wood flooring, be sure to lift it rather than dragging it. You can also use furniture pads to protect the floor from scratches.
Refinishing
Over time, the finish on engineered wood flooring can become scratched or damaged. If this happens, you can refinish the floor to restore its original appearance.
Refinishing engineered wood flooring is a job that is best left to professionals. However, if you are handy and have some experience with woodworking, you can refinish the floor yourself.
To refinish engineered wood flooring, you will need to sand the floor to remove the old finish. You can then apply a new finish to the floor.
Repairing
If engineered wood flooring is damaged, it can be repaired. The type of repair that is needed will depend on the extent of the damage.
Minor scratches can be repaired with a touch-up kit. More severe damage, such as dents or gouges, may require professional repair.
Preventing Damage
The best way to protect engineered wood flooring is to prevent damage from occurring in the first place. Here are a few tips for preventing damage to engineered wood flooring:
* Avoid walking on engineered wood flooring with shoes that have hard soles.
* Use furniture pads to protect the floor from scratches.
* Lift furniture rather than dragging it when moving it.
* Place rugs in areas where there is a lot of foot traffic.
* Avoid spilling liquids on engineered wood flooring.
* Clean up spills immediately if they do occur.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your engineered wood flooring looking its best for many years to come.