Hard wood is proving to be a very popular choice for domestic and commercial flooring due to its attractive appearance which offers a certain class and panache to any environment. Hard wood is also a fairly durable and resistant type of flooring so, if properly maintained, it is a floor which should last for many years to come.
Hard wood floors are not the easiest type of floor to maintain however, and one can find that, over time, wood floors become marked and can slowly leave an unsatisfactory appearance despite constant cleaning efforts.
The key to keeping a floor attractive is maintenance, and there are several things that can be done to keep a floor attractive. The ideal first step is to have a quality sealer applied, which will make the floor less susceptible to staining and aid cleaning efforts. Regular sweeping is a must to avoid any scratching and surface abrasions which can expose the wood, and washing should be done with a damp but almost dry mop after sweeping. It is also advisable to take care when moving heavy objects and furniture.
If, over time, you find that your floor has an unsatisfactory appearance, there are various possibilities as to the reason for this. It is important to know what has previously been applied to the floor when considering action. If a floor has no sealer, the wood will be exposed and wood is susceptible to staining directly from liquids such as wine and coffee. Even something as harmless as water can seep into the joints between the wood and cause damage over time.
If the floor has a good sealer, it is possible that surface scratching or general wear over time has left the wood exposed to the same risks mentioned above. It is likewise possible that the dull appearance is as a result of general build-up of dirt and bacteria over time. You are advised to consult a company which specializes in wood floor cleaning, which will be able to advise you as to the best course of action to take.
If the unsatisfactory appearance is due to surface build-up of dirt and grime, then surface cleaning and buffing is all that is required. If, however, the sealer has worn down to the point where the wood is exposed, then a different course of action is required. It is possible that the wood will need to be sanded, essentially removing a very fine layer of the floor, and then cleaned, polished and resealed to offer ongoing protection.





