Understanding the characteristics of hardwood, as well as proper care and maintenance, will help ensure that your new hardwood floor will provide many years of enjoyment for you and your family.

Relative Humidity – Control humidity by use of a dehumidifier or humidifier.  The National Wood Flooring Association recommends maintaining a relative humidity range of between 35 – 55%.  Humidity levels outside of this range could result in cupping or gapping.

Why does my floor make noise? – As a floor expands and contracts due to changing humidity and temperature levels, you may hear small crackling noises.  This is perfectly normal and you should not be concerned.

What are some edges slightly higher than other? – Wood flooring is milled to certain tolerances established by individual manufacturers.  When cutting any natural product, a slight difference is common and is a characteristic of hardwood floors.

Why is the color of my wood different under my rug or couch? – Sunshine, and some interior lighting systems, may have an effect on the color of wood as it ages.  Rugs and furniture located in the same place for long periods of time can cause this change in color.  Some exotic woods can change more rapidly than traditional wood species.  Moving furniture and rugs will keep your floor well blended.   Any areas that are covered and, therefore, not exposed to the light can change color at a different rate than the parts of the floor exposed directly to the light.

Dents, Scratches – Dirt, grit and sand are your hardwood floor's worst enemies.  They act like sandpaper on the finish, causing scratches, dents and dulling.  Place floor mats at entrances to trap dirt and prevent damage.  Minor scratches can be repaired with a wood finish touch up kit.  Extensive scratching can be repaired using a process called “screen and recoat”, which eliminates all the dust and mess associated with a complete "refinish".

How do I maintain my hardwood floor? – Sweeping or dry mopping is key to keeping a floor looking good.  A vacuum can also be used, as long as you DO NOT use one with a beater bar.  Avoid oil or water based cleaners.  They can build up and create a cloudy haze on your floor.  Instead, neutral pH cleaners made specifically for wood floors are recommended.  Ask your sales person to advise you of what the wood manufacturer recommends for proper maintenance and visit our page on Hardwood Maintenance.

Furniture – Lift furniture when moving it.  Dragging it across the floor can cause damage.  Felt floor protectors used under the legs will help prevent scratches.  Chairs with rollers can be very hard on hardwood finishes as they tend to attract sand and debris that can scratch the finish.  They can also dent the wood.

Please note that our service to you does not end after we leave your home.  Please call us with any questions or concerns you may have.  Additional information is available from the manufacturer’s website or the National Wood Flooring Association website at www.woodfloors.org.

Thanks for taking the time to learn more about your hardwood floors.

Rich Olson

Just Around The Corner, Inc.