Setting Up A Room To Improve the FlowSetting Up A Room To Improve the Flow

Have you ever wondered why some people's hardwood floors end up scratched, stained, and warped? Although you might chalk up the damage to homeowner neglect, even simple mistakes can damage your hardwood—if you don't know what to look for. Here are two hardwood floor villains you might be overlooking, and how to fend off damage:

1: Your Dishwasher

When your dishwasher is in the middle of scrubbing grime off of those dinner dishes, you might not notice the drips and spills it is leaving behind. Over time, the protective seal that keeps water inside of your dishwasher can become brittle or damaged, letting water leak onto your floor. Although a few spills might not seem like a problem, repeated moisture can wear away the protective varnish on your flooring—creating discolored patches.

Unfortunately, discolored floors are the least of your problems. Once varnish has worn away, water can penetrate the area easily, making its way underneath hardwood planks. As water expands and contracts with normal temperature changes, it can create gaps between boards, or even bend planks.

To prevent problems, wipe up any drips or spills around your sink or dishwasher right away. Inspect your dishwasher regularly for signs of leaks. If you spot problems, have a professional correct the issue right away. It might feel like overkill, but it could save your flooring.

2: Dirty Shoes

You chose hardwood floors over carpet because they are easy to clean, so why should you care about people trekking over your flooring with dirty shoes? In addition to being unsightly, grime can also be incredibly abrasive—leaving behind scratches on your new floors. Once dirt and dust have settled, they might create a sandpaper-like barrier between rugs, furniture, and passing pets—leaving behind dulling, microscopic scratches.

To keep your floors shiny and smooth, install floor mats in your entryway. The longer the mat, the more dirt will rub away when guests come into your home. If you don't like the idea of adding extra rugs, consider a "no shoes" approach when guests arrive. Keep a large basket or a shoe rack near your front door. By asking people to remove their shoes, you can keep grime from destroying your floor varnish, and help people to feel right at home from the moment they step into your house.  

By knowing how to prevent hardwood floor damage, you might be able to keep those floors beautiful and strong for years to come. To learn more, contact a business like National Carpet Mill Outlet.