Causes of Hardwood Floor Damage and How to Prevent Them

Beautiful hardwood floors can last for generations if properly cared for. It’s not uncommon to come across historic properties with original flooring. This is why the durability of hardwood flooring is one of the reasons it is so popular. However, it’s not completely invulnerable to all types of damage.

Here are the causes of hardwood floor damage and how to prevent them:

1. Types of Furniture

Your furniture and rugs are the biggest threats to your newly installed hardwood floor. Furniture is generally heavy and oversized, and if misaligned when set on the floor, it can cause a lot of damage. The same goes for rugs that are not adequately secured. They can quickly shift on the floor, causing scratches and dents.

To prevent furniture from damaging the floor you can:

1. Allow it to settle entirely overnight before using it.
2. Never slide furniture around on the floor.
3. Make sure it’s set on the floor correctly, and the legs are snug and tight.
4. When moving furniture off the floor, use a hard surface underneath to prevent scratches.

Furthermore, furniture with casters can still cause marks on the floor. Remember to disengage the casters to prevent them from forcefully scratching the flooring.

2. Your Pets

It’s no secret that pets can damage floors. Pets have sharp nails that can scratch the floor’s surface, resulting in dents and scratches. They can also cause scratches when running or jumping on the floor. Even if the pet owner is diligent in their cleaning efforts, the pet’s urine and waste can affect the flooring.

If you have pets, be sure to use a mat or rug near the house entrance. This is also a great way to contain messes that can damage your floor. 

3. Debris on the Floor

While it’s an excellent practice to sweep your floor regularly, there are times that the broom can’t catch the debris on the floor. This can result from sand or soil tracked into the house when shoes or boots are not properly cleaned. Waste that is too small for the broom can also scratch the floor’s surface.

To prevent scratching, sweep your floor before vacuuming. This way, you will be able to remove debris quickly and effectively.

4. Accidents

Even though most of us are very careful with our floors, accidents happen. We may accidentally drop something on the floor or accidentally spill a drink on the floor. Even worse, children can accidentally scratch the floor with toys, marbles, or other toys.

5. Improper Installation

Professional flooring contractors install most hardwood flooring. However, at times, people may install it themselves. This can be dangerous since it has to be installed with precision for the flooring to fit correctly.

Moreover, an installation that is less than ideal can cause hardwood flooring to become loose on the floor, causing gouges and scratches. It can also cause the nails used to secure the bottom to loosen.

6. Wet Floors

Wet wood is much more likely to be damaged than dry wood. Likewise, moisture in a hardwood floor can cause the wood to swell.  As much as possible, keep your floors dry. If spills occur, dispose of the liquid immediately. Never allow liquids to stand on the floor.

Conclusion

Hardwood floors are durable and look beautiful, but they need the proper care to stay in the best shape possible. Maintain your hardwood floor by keeping it dry and free of debris. By matching the furniture you place on the floor to the weight and sizes of the pieces, you can avoid scratches and dents on the floor. Preventing accidents and improper installation is also crucial.

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