Hardwood Care and Maintenance

Unlike other floorcoverings, hardwood is a natural product. Understanding the characteristics of hardwood is imperative to being a satisfied customer. For example, hardwood will expand and contract according to the relative humidity. In the Edmonton, Alberta area, humidity can fluctuate between 10% and 90%. The use of a power humidifier is a very important part of trying to improve these conditions. It is impossible to create perfect conditions so expansion and contraction is not something that may happen but rather, something that will happen. Qualified hardwood specialists at After Eight Floorings will be happy to educate all prospective consumers on the facts of hardwood to ensure customer satisfaction.

Unlike other floor coverings, wood is very forgiving. By vacuuming the floor and wiping up spills immediately, most problems can be prevented. And, the following care tips will help preserve a beautiful finish and keep maintenance to a minimum.

The use of a power humidifier is very important. Although perfect conditions are impossible to create, it will greatly improve them.
Never use wax, vinyl or tile floor care products on wood floors, as this may result in a loss of warranty. Mixing products with water can dull the finish and permanently damage the floor.
Place non-rubber backed mats and area rugs in high-traffic areas and at doorway exteriors and interiors to prevent the tracking of grit and dirt. Strong light can cause the wood color to change, so be sure to move rugs occasionally.
Never damp-mop a wood floor or use furniture polish or dust-preventive products. Water has a tendency to cause the wood to swell.
Wipe up food and other spills immediately with a slightly dampened cloth.
Put protective felt pads or fabric-faced glides under the legs of furniture to prevent denting and scratching and replace pads on occasion.
Cleats and high heels will dent and pit any floor surface. Certain types of casters may also damage the flooring.
When moving heavy furniture, pick the furniture up to best protect the wood flooring.
Place an area rug in front of the kitchen sink to protect the wood from spilled liquids.
Never place potted plants on wood floors, condensation can cause damage.
Heat runs should be insulated under the floor to minimize gaps.

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After Eight Floorings Show Room Location:
11605 - 156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta,
T5M 3T8

Tel: (780) 454-2481
Fax: (780) 452-1845
e-mail us here!

Show Room Hours:
Monday to Friday:
8:00 am to 5:00 pm
Saturday:
10:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Evening appointments/design consults available upon request