Flooring Tips & Tricks

How to Maximize the Longevity of Your Hardwood Floors

Hardwood flooring is one of the oldest and most durable floor covering materials available. Many older buildings still have wood floors originally installed a hundred years ago. The longevity of hardwood flooring will be determined by many different factors. Poorly installed or lower quality wood floors might need to be replaced or refinished in a few short years. However, good quality hardwood floors that are properly installed and maintained will last a lifetime.

Chico Carpet One suggests you consider the following when selecting and installing your hardwood floors.

Hardwood Flooring and Finish Quality Selections

Correctly selected hardwood flooring will impact the floors longevity. Some woods have denser structure and much harder than others. The professionals at Chico Carpet One can help you with your wood selection and provide you will information on the strength and durability of the wood. Some important factors to consider when selecting your hardwood flooring include:

•  Board Width
• Wood Species
• Color
• Texture
• Hardness
• Finish

Every type of finish and wood itself will be covered by manufacturer warranty for a certain period of time. Usually coverage will range from 10 to 50 years. Premium quality solid hardwood flooring typically will have the longest lifespan.

Proper Installation

Proper installation is an important factor in determining how long the wood flooring will last. Even the most durable and highest quality hardwood might be spoiled by unprofessional installation. Whether the homeowners decides to complete the installation themselves or call in a professional, all recommendations and manufacturer instructions should be followed to maintain the warranty of the materials.

Note: While choosing new hardwood flooring, check the specific application of a particular product and make sure it is suitable for the room in which you want it installed. Some woods cannot be installed over radiant heated floors, below grade, or in the areas with potentially high moisture level.

Maintenance and Repair

Adequate care and periodic maintenance will impact the wood flooring lifespan dramatically. Properly maintained hardwood floors will preserve its appearance and will last longer. Since wood is a natural product, it will react to changes in its environment. The two most harmful environmental factors to your hardwood flooring include:

1. LIGHT: To minimize the affect light exposure has on wood, homeowners might consider protecting the flooring from direct sun rays.
2. HUMIDITY/WATER: Never leave water standing on your hardwood flooring and minimize humidity changes as much as possible.

If you do find your hardwood floor is in need of repair and the wearing layer is thick enough, hardwood flooring can be refinished a few times, which will significantly increase its overall lifespan. However, preventive care and proper maintenance can keep your floors looking good for years.

Everyday Tips to Care for your Floors

• Vacuum your floor every week
• Wipe up spills immediately
• Avoid getting hairspray and furniture polish on your floor
• Keep out the rain
• Remove residue with no-wax wood floor cleaner
• Use appropriate waxes and restorer
• Use doormats and area rugs

For more maintenance tips, please check out Chico Carpet One's Tips for Hardwood Floor Care article >

Proper cleaning and maintenance of your hardwood flooring will take some time, but with the right tools and techniques, you’ll be able to keep your floors looking their best. Remember, the time you spend maintaining your floors is nothing compared to the amount of time you’ll spend enjoying them. Click here to view more Flooring Tips & Tricks >

Chico Carpet One is the premier provider of carpet, hardwood floors, vinyl, and other flooring options; providing all major brands of flooring complete with professional installation at affordable prices. Visit our showroom or click to set up a FREE estimate today >