How to Maintain Your Vinyl and Wood Floors
The quality of our flooring and surface treatments they have, make them very easy to look after but a little care and attention will keep them looking good and lasting longer.
The finishing touches
Once you’ve finished installing the floor it just needs a final clean before you start to move in the furniture. For vinyl that means a wipe with a damp cloth, warm water and a natural detergent. For laminate and wood just brush off any remaining dirt or dust and rub all over with a dry cloth to remove the last little bits. Then you’re ready to move in.
A clean sweep
For most of us there’s always a temptation to leave cleaning the floor until it really has to be done. But the longer everyday dirt and stains are left and walked into the floors then the harder they become to remove. So a quick regular clean will be less work in the future and more effective than a once-a-month blitz and it will keep your floors looking like new and lasting longer.
Vinyl
Keep the floor in top condition by sweeping with a soft brush or vacuuming and regular cleaning with warm water and a neutral detergent.
Laminate
Vacuum or wipe with a dry mop. Ideally, you should wipe the floor all over every couple of weeks with a damp (not wet) mop sprayed with a laminate cleaning solution. Finish with a quick wipe with a dry mop or cloth.
Wood
A wipe with a buffing cloth or sweeping with a broom is all you need to keep the floor looking good. From time to time clean with a damp (never wet) cloth and with a suitable environmentally friendly wood cleaning product.
Spot on
Unlike some types of floor covering such as carpet, it is easier to remove household stains from vinyl and wood flooring, but it is recommended that you clean any spillage immediately. The best way to do this is with a dry cloth and a recommended cleaning agent. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before using cleaning solutions and never spray them directly onto the floor.
Wood scratches, gaps and cracks
After extended periods of wear, even the tough lacquers on our wood floors may start to show scratches. A lacquer Refresher will rapidly bring a glow back to your floor.A badly scratched floor can be made as good as new with light sanding and a new coat of lacquer.If cracks or gaps appear they can be filled with putty, or wax bars for larger gaps.
The right products
Of course, sometimes the floor will need a more thorough clean. You should only use the cleaning products specifically designed for vinyl, laminate and wood and always follow the instructions on the container. Most important, never drown the floor – use a damp cloth, mop or sponge, never a wet one.
Easy tips
- Use a doormat at the entrance to stop dirt being brought into your home.
- Felt or plastic protection on the bottom of furniture legs will prevent dents, scratches and marks.
- Lift rather than sliding heavy furniture to move it.
- Never spray cleaning products straight on to the floor.
- Don’t use polish or wax.