As a multi-surface restoration company, we see all different types of floor damage, from scuffs and scratches in hardwood, to cracks and gouges in tile. It’s hard to avoid, which isn’t surprising due to the abuse your floor endures in heavy traffic areas.
The problem is too often, property owners think they have limited options and will say,
“Well, the damage doesn’t look that bad, just cover it up with something”
Or
“It’s just the floor I’m not replacing it because of one scratch”
It’s not JUST the floor though, it can add beautiful patterns and colours to your space and can tie together an entire room. Luckily, New Creations has affordable repair solutions for every kind of small damage on every kind of flooring, but we’d rather you didn’t have to call!
So how do you prevent damaging your floors? Here’s some suggestions!
CONSISTENT CLEANING
Make it a daily habit to sweep and vacuum your floors to prevent any build up from turning into a bigger issue. Without daily maintenance, small amounts of dirt, dust, pet hair and dander can grow and become very hard to remove.
CLEAN UP ANY SPILLS
You can’t avoid accidents, but when spills happen, clean them up right away. This will prevent moisture from leaking between floor boards or getting underneath your tile, linoleum, etc. Excessive moisture can be very damaging, leading to the warping and separation of the flooring from the subfloor. If it’s not dealt with early, the moisture can even deteriorate your subflooring underneath.
FIND A GREAT AREA RUG
Yes, you want to show off your beautiful floors, but heavy traffic and debris can wear them out fast. This is especially true in areas like entranceways that accumulate heavy dirt and soil from outside. Other areas, like your living room or waiting room, are also at risk from heavy traffic areas and shifting furniture.
We love the selections from Harry Ross' Area Rug Store, End of the Roll, and Bill Knight Flooring & Carpets. Some will even cut custom rugs out of their wall to wall carpet selections!
PUT THE MOP AWAY
When cleaning your floors, mopping and general cleaning supplies can dull their finish. This is why knowing the type of flooring you have in your home or office is so important. Once you do, only use cleaners that are gentle and made specifically for that type of flooring. If your floors need a deep clean, make sure you use specialty products that are made based on the finish of your floors.
FIX DAMAGE, FAST
You should always be on the lookout for uneven spots or places that just don’t feel right. If you do find a damaged area, fix the issue before it spreads. Often, damage that is left unrepaired will only spread and get worse. This is especially true for natural wood floors that can expand and contract with damage like moisture.
NO SHOES!
Even if you’re just running into the house quickly, it only takes one metal high heel, or one stone caught in the thread to leave a major scratch or chip. Ask your guests to kindly remove their shoes in your entranceway and cover the floor in that area with a rug to prevent any damage.
DON’T DRAG YOUR FURNITURE, PICK IT UP
When you need to move a piece of furniture ALWAYS pick it up instead of dragging it. Even if you’re only moving it an inch! The pads you put on the bottom of the legs may protect you slightly, but they can accumulate dirt and debris that can scuff your floor when gliding across it. Your best bet it to pick it up and place it where it needs to be.
KEEP THE HUMIDITY DOWN
Maintaining a consistent temperature and humidity level in your home or office can be a big help when trying to prevent moisture damage, especially if you have any natural wood flooring. In addition, before you install your floors, try to leave the flooring in the room for a few days to get used to the environment.
We hope these tips can help you keep your flooring in good shape for years, because the best repair is one you don’t have to do at all!
Already have some damage needing a repair? Contact us today for a FREE quote.