Preventative Measures Ensure Long Life For Your Hardwood Floor
• Use protective mats. Good quality entry and exit mats will help collect the dirt, sand, grit, and other substances such as oil, asphalt, or driveway sealer that can otherwise be tracked onto your flooring. Do not use rubber- or foam-backed plastic mats as they may discolor the flooring. To prevent slippage, use an approved vinyl rug underlayment. Use rugs at workstations, pivot-points (e.g., stair landings, room entries), and high-traffic areas to reduce wear, especially if you have a large family or indoor pets.
• Use floor protectors under furniture. Use floor protectors and wide-load-bearing leg bases/rollers to minimize indentations and scratches from heavy objects. As a rule, the heavier the object, the wider the floor protector should be. Make certain furniture casters are clean and operate properly (a minimum 1" width is recommended.)
• Maintain relative humidity level. Maintain a normal indoor relative humidity level between 45 and 65% throughout the year to minimize the natural expansion and contraction of wood.
o Heating Season (Dry): A humidifier is recommended to prevent excess shrinkage due to low humidity levels. Wood stove and electric heat tend to create very dry conditions.
o Non Heating Season (Wet): An air conditioner, dehumidifier or periodically turning on your heating system can maintain humidity during the summer months. Avoid excessive exposure to water during periods of inclement weather.
• Avoid sharp objects. While your Shaw Hardwoods floor is one of the most wear resistant floors on the market, sharp or pointed objects can damage it nonetheless.
• Watch your feet. Don't walk on your flooring with stiletto-style heels, spiked golf shoes, or cleats. They may cause indentations in your flooring.
• Watch your pet's feet. Keep your pet's nails trimmed to keep them from scratching your flooring.
• Rearrange your rugs and furniture. Periodically rearranging your area rugs and furniture will allow the flooring to age evenly. UV sunlight will soften the tone of different species of hardwood to varying degrees.
• Protect the floor when moving. Use a dolly when moving heavy furniture or appliances. But first, put down a sheet of quarter-inch plywood or Masonite to protect the floor. Never try to slide or roll heavy objects across the floor.