If you have recently installed matte lacquer or polyurethane finished wood flooring in your home, congratulations! You’ve made a beautiful and durable choice for your flooring. Now that you have it installed, it’s important to know how to clean and maintain it properly to keep it looking its best for years to come. In this blog, we’ll go over some tips and tricks for cleaning and maintaining your finished wood flooring.
What is Matte Lacquer and Polyurethane Finished Wood Flooring?
Matte lacquer finish is a water based, clear coating that covers the top layer of your wood. Typically, this is a thinner finish that penetrates into the wood deeper than polyurethane. It dries much quicker and is easier to apply. Polyurethane, however, is stronger than your average lacquer finish but has a similar makeup. Polyurethane can come in both oil and water based. Both are used often to protect your wood flooring and are quite easy to maintain.
Step 1: Clean the Wood Flooring Regularly
The first step in maintaining your finished wood flooring is to clean it regularly. Regular cleaning will prevent dirt and debris from building up on the surface of the wood, which can cause scratches and damage over time. Here are some tips for cleaning your wood flooring:
-Sweep or vacuum the wood flooring regularly to remove dirt and debris. Be sure to use a soft-bristled broom or vacuum attachment to avoid scratching the surface of the wood.
-Use a damp mop or cloth to clean the wood flooring. Avoid using excessive amounts of water, as this can damage the wood.
-Use a wood floor cleaner specifically designed for lacquer finished wood flooring. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners such as bleach or vinegar, as these can damage the finish of the wood.
Step 2: Address Spills and Stains Immediately
If you spill something on your finished wood flooring, it’s important to address it immediately to prevent damage to the wood. Here’s what to do:
-Use a clean, dry cloth to clean up any spills or stains as soon as possible.
-If the spill has dried, use a damp cloth to gently scrub the area. Avoid using excessive water, as this can damage the wood.
-If the stain is stubborn, use a wood floor cleaner specifically designed for wood flooring. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Step 3: Protect the Wood Flooring from Scratches and Damage
To keep your wood flooring looking its best, it’s important to protect it from scratches and damage. Here are some tips for protecting your wood flooring:
- Place furniture pads under the legs of furniture to prevent scratches and dents.
- Avoid wearing shoes with hard soles on the wood flooring, as this can cause scratches.
- Use area rugs or runners in high traffic areas to protect the wood flooring.
- Trim your pets’ nails regularly to prevent scratches.
Step 4: Maintain the Room’s Humidity Levels
Wood flooring is sensitive to changes in humidity levels. To prevent your finished wood flooring from warping or shrinking, it’s important to maintain the room’s humidity levels between 35% and 55%. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a humidifier during the winter months to add moisture to the air.
- Use a dehumidifier during the summer months to remove excess moisture from the air.
- Avoid exposing the wood flooring to excessive amounts of moisture, such as standing water or wet mopping.
Step 5: Refinish the Wood Flooring as Needed
Over time, the finish on your lacquer finished wood flooring may begin to wear down. When this happens, it’s important to refinish the floor to restore its appearance and protect it from further damage. On average, this is done every 15-20 years depending on your foot traffic and environment.
In conclusion, maintaining your finished wood flooring is an important part of keeping it looking its best for years to come. By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your wood flooring stays clean, protected, and durable. Remember to clean your wood flooring regularly and check with the manufacturer’s warranty to see what they recommend. With proper care and maintenance, your flooring will continue to be a beautiful and functional addition to your home.