Maintaining engineered wood flooring is crucial for preserving its beauty and longevity. The good news is that it's quite similar to caring for traditional hardwood floors, primarily because the top "wear" layer of engineered wood is actual hardwood.
Understanding Engineered Wood Maintenance
Your engineered flooring is cared for mostly the same as you would for hardwood floors since the uppermost wear layer is comprised solely of hardwood. This means the key to maintenance is protecting this valuable surface layer from scratches, moisture, and excessive wear.
Routine Cleaning Steps
Regular cleaning is the first line of defense against damage.
Daily/Weekly Care
The most important step in preventing scratches is removing dirt and debris that can act like sandpaper.
- Always sweep or dust before you mop.
- Remove as much dirt and debris before mopping to avoid damaging your floors. Use a soft-bristle broom or a dust mop.
- Alternatively, use a vacuum cleaner specifically designed for hard floors, ensuring it has soft wheels and doesn't use a beater bar that can scratch the surface.
Occasional Cleaning (Mopping)
When sweeping isn't enough, light mopping is appropriate, but minimal moisture is key.
- Use a damp mop, not a wet one. The mop head should be wrung out thoroughly until it's just slightly damp.
- Use a cleaning solution recommended for engineered wood or pre-finished hardwood floors. Avoid harsh chemicals, oil-based soaps, or excessive water.
- Work in sections, and if possible, wipe the floor dry shortly after mopping to ensure no standing water remains.
Dealing with Spills and Accidents
Moisture is the enemy of wood flooring, even engineered types.
- Clean up spills as soon as possible. Allowing liquids to sit on the surface can lead to staining, warping, or damage to the wear layer and core.
- Blot spills immediately with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel.
- For sticky spills, lightly dampen a cloth with a recommended wood floor cleaner and wipe the area, then dry immediately.
Protecting Your Engineered Wood Floors
Prevention is vital for maintaining the look and lifespan of your engineered wood.
- Use furniture pads: Place felt pads under the legs of all furniture to prevent scratches when items are moved.
- Avoid dragging furniture: Lift furniture when moving it, rather than dragging it across the floor.
- Keep pet claws trimmed: This helps minimize scratches from your furry friends.
- Use entry mats and rugs: Place mats at entrances to trap dirt and moisture, and use rugs in high-traffic areas like hallways and in front of sofas to protect the finish.
- Maintain indoor humidity: Extreme changes in humidity can cause wood floors to expand or contract. Using a humidifier or dehumidifier can help maintain a stable environment.
By following these simple steps, particularly sweeping before mopping and cleaning up spills quickly as advised, you can keep your engineered wood floors looking beautiful for years to come.
