LVP, Laminate & Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood flooring including natural, engineered and laminates are a beautiful addition to your home. While beautiful, it is important to understand the unique characteristics of the wood you selected and the maintenance requirements.
Maintain 35-55% humidity year-round. Wood floors respond noticeably to humidity changes, especially in winter when gaps between boards are normal.
Routine Maintenance
| Task | Frequency | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
| Sweep or vacuum | Daily or as needed | 5 minutes |
| Damp mop (minimal water) | Weekly | 10 minutes |
| Check floor protectors | Monthly | 5 minutes |
| Inspect for damage | Seasonally | 10 minutes |
| Professional recoating | Every 3 to 5 years | N/A |
Daily & Weekly Cleaning
Preventive maintenance is the primary goal:
- Daily: Sweep or vacuum as needed
- Never wet-mop - excessive water causes wood to expand and damages floor
- For stubborn soiling: Damp-mop with 1 cup vinegar to 1 gallon warm water
- When damp-mopping, remove all excess water from mop
- Use only manufacturer-recommended cleaning products
Protecting from Furniture
- Install proper floor protectors on all furniture
- Protectors allow chairs to move without scuffing
- Regularly clean protectors to remove accumulated grit
- Heavy furniture or dropped objects can cause dimples
Protective Mats
- Use protective mats at exterior doors to prevent sand and grit
- Gritty sand is wood flooring's worst enemy
- Warning: Rubber backing on area rugs or mats can cause yellowing and warping
Troubleshooting
Gaps Between Boards
Gaps appearing during dry/winter months are normal. Wood floors respond to humidity changes:
- Planks expand and contract as moisture content changes
- Most noticeable during winter months
- A humidifier may help but doesn't eliminate this reaction
Scratches
Minor surface scratches are common:
- High heels with exposed fastening nails exert over 8,000 pounds of pressure per square inch
- Keep heels in good repair
- Use furniture protectors consistently
- Consider area rugs in high-traffic areas
Cupping or Warping
Cupping occurs when edges of boards are higher than the center. Causes include:
- Repeated wetting or single thorough soaking
- High humidity below the floor
- Spills not cleaned promptly
Prevention:
- Clean up spills immediately with dry cloth
- Maintain consistent humidity levels
- Address any plumbing leaks immediately
Dull Finish
Dulling of finish in heavy traffic areas is expected:
- Consider having an extra coat applied by a qualified contractor after one year
- For protective finishes, recoating extends floor life significantly
What to Avoid
- Don't wet-mop - Excessive water damages wood flooring
- Don't use wax or oil soap - Once applied, new finish won't bond properly
- Don't expose to direct sunlight - Causes irreparable damage; use window coverings
- Don't drag furniture - Always lift furniture or use proper sliders
- Don't use rubber-backed rugs - Can cause yellowing and warping
- Don't ignore spills - Clean immediately with dry cloth
About Wax
- Waxing and oil soap products are not recommended
- Once you wax a polyurethane finish, recoating is difficult (new finish won't bond to wax)
- Preferred maintenance: preventive cleaning and recoating as needed
Humidity Control
Wood floors respond noticeably to humidity changes:
- Maintain 35-55% relative humidity year-round
- Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels
- A humidifier in winter can help reduce gaps
Classic Homes does not install humidifiers and is not responsible for damages associated with the installation or improper usage of a humidifier.
Related Topics
Warranty Coverage: See Hardwood Flooring Standards for coverage periods and exclusions.