The National Wood Flooring Association has often discussed the benefits of a hardwood floor, stating that it adds at least 10% to the cost of any home. However, that’s only if they remain in a high-quality state. If they start to lose their shine, what form of hardwood floor maintenance can ensure your investment stays looking new?
With this guide, you can learn what you need to do to ensure your hardwood floor cleaning efforts are effective and safe for your family. So, pick up the best equipment and start bringing the sheen back to your home.
Preparing the Surface for Cleaning
The first thing you must do before applying floor cleaning products is remove any dust buildup on the surface. Use a soft broom or microfiber dust mop to prevent scratches, clear all the loose debris from the hardwood floor, and discard it in the trash.
If you find any sticky areas or uncleaned spillages, wipe them off with a damp cloth and, if necessary, a mild soap. Do not attempt to use harsh detergents or bleaches, as these are likely to damage the wood.
Cleaning the Hardwood Floor
Once the floor dries, pick out a cleaning product that appears pH-balanced and specifically designed for hardwood floors to avoid stripping the finish from the surface. You should then follow the product’s instructions, mopping in the direction of the grain to prevent floor streaks. Then, rinse and dry the surface to ensure you leave a spotless finish.
If you are unsure of how to perform any of these steps or you find any deeper stains, a professional cleaner is always a good option. Steamwave Carpet Cleaning can discuss your cleaning needs and help you remove embedded dirt safely.
Buffing
Unless you want to retain the wood’s old aesthetic, you can use buffing to remove minor scratches. While you can use a buffing machine with a soft pad for the best results, you may be better off hiring experts if you do not have the right equipment.
Polishing
The National Association of Realtors says that over half of home buyers would pay more if a hardwood floor existed in the home. The best way to show that off is by ensuring it looks brand new, which is what a polish can do.
Using a polish can restore the floor’s protective layer and its previous beautiful nature after cleaning. Use water-based, non-toxic polishes for a safe and effective finish, and wait at least two hours before walking on it to avoid leaving marks.
Protecting the Wood
You can use several other protective steps to ensure a longer hardwood floor lifespan. These include:
- Sealing
- Coating
- Waxing
- Professional methods
Each offers different benefits, so consult with floor specialists to get the best idea of what would offer the highest-quality finish for your floor.
Trust the Professionals for All Your Hardwood Floor Cleaning Needs
When you want to invest in your home’s value, you will want any cleaning done right to prevent the smallest error from causing a significant price drop. Steamwave Carpet Cleaning offers tailored hardwood floor cleaning options for valuable home spaces.
So, protect your home’s value with expert sealing and waxing. Contact us today to learn how our experienced cleaning technicians can give your investment the care it needs.