Hardwood Flooring Maintenance Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I wet mop my Hardwood Floor?
You should never wet mop a hardwood floor, this will raise the grain and may permanently damage the wood's surface. Use manufacturer suggested Floor Care Essentials Hard Surface Products to clean and protect your hardwood floor. Always apply the manufacturer Floor Care Essentials Hard Surface Cleaner directly to the terry cloth flooring mop, not the floor.

How can I keep my wood floor from turning dark?
As most any wood product ages it's color will change. This change is most often influenced by the nature of the wood species and by light intensity or oxidation. Other factors involve the finishing materials used on the flooring. The finish products themselves also change color with age. The degree of change with finishes is influenced by light intensity and "UV" blockers in the finish. One exception is with new oil modified "polys" less than 22-3 months old. This material when covered or shaded by rugs or other items will generally darken considerably. If the shade is later removed a "partial" reversal will take place over time.

How are polyurethane or other surface finishes maintained?
Surface finishes like polyurethane require only simple care. Just dustmop, sweep, or vacuum regularly. Always follow the manufacturer's cleaning recommendations if known. When cleaning no longer restores shine, recoat the floor with a surface finish. The frequency of recoating depends on the amount of traffic. Never wax a surface-finished floor. And never use vinyl or tile floor care products on any wood floor.

How are wax or penetrating-stain finishes maintained?
Dustmop or vacuum regularly, and use a buffer to maintain the shine. Always follow the manufacturer's cleaning recommendations if known. If buffing no longer restores shine, you may need to rewax. If so, apply a cleaner and liquid wax specifically for wood floors. Apply the wax evenly, allow the floor to dry, and buff to the desired luster. Depending on traffic, a properly maintained wood floor should need waxing once or twice a year. Be careful not to over-wax a wood floor. If the floor dulls, try buffing instead. Avoid wax buildup under furniture and other low-traffic areas by applying wax half as often as in higher-traffic areas.

How can I clean a discolored or soiled wax finish?
If the wax finish is discolored or has dirt buildup, use a combination liquid cleaner/wax made specifically for wood flooring. Make sure it is solvent rather than water-based. Spread the liquid cleaner/wax with a cloth or fine steel wool and rub gently to remove grime and old wax. Wipe the floor clean, let it dry for about 20 minutes, and then buff.

Can cleaning products for vinyl or tile floors be used on wood floors as well?
No. Never use sheet vinyl or tile floor care products on wood floors. And never use self-polishing acrylic waxes on wood floors. These waxes cause wood to become slippery and dull. In this case, the floor must be sanded and refinished.

Can a wood floor be damp-mopped?
Never damp mop a waxed floor. When cleaning a surface-finished floor, follow the manufacturer's recommendations. You may generally use a dampened (near dry) mop to maintain a wood floor, however excessive moisture will cause damage. Standing water can dull the finish, damage the wood, and leave a discoloring residue. If water spills on a wood floor, immediately wipe it up with a clean cloth.

How can I prevent scratches on wood flooring?
Place mats and throw rugs at doorways to help protect wood floors from grit, dirt and sand. Place felt pads under furniture legs and vacuum/dust your wood floor regularly.

How can I repair a chip in my floor?
If the damaged area is smaller than an inch in diameter you can use ColorFill Putty to repair the defect. If the damaged area is too large replacing the plank may be required. See the Installation Guidelines for additional information and recommendations.

How can I restore the finish on my Hardwood Floor?
If your hardwood floor's finish becomes dull and scratched you can restore the finish by a light screening and recoat of the urethane.