Installing a hardwood floor represents a major investment of time and money. Whether you do the work yourself or hire a contractor, preserving the shine and veneer of the most-punished surface in the home is a top priority.
Wood treatments often contain toxic ingredients, such as toluene, which is hardly the sort of stuff you want toddlers or pets crawling over, so consider this factor when selecting a top coat for wooden flooring.
In general, the darker the stain; the more natural the formula will be, as the most toxic substances in wood sealers and protectors are employed to preserve a transparent finish. Natural oils and pigments, especially those approved for use in the food industry, are to be preferred over synthetic blends which are not appropriate for human consumption. After all, even if you don’t plan to dine on the floor, shouldn’t it be fit to eat off of anyhow?
High-traffic floors are subject to scrapes and gouges from routine impact. Children’s toys, shifting of furniture, and shoe scuffing can all register their toll over the years. Placing a soft pad under couch and table legs while rearranging them, or covering a designated play area with a thin mat, are simple strategies that will keep your wood flooring in top shape for years to come. A cheerfully applied “no-shoes” policy can add to a casual atmosphere for your guests, as well as helping to guard against damage.
Temperature, moisture, and even slanted sunlight can cause warping in unprotected wooden floors. If you plan to utilize radiant heat in the room, beware of the effect this can have on the condition of the wood, which might gradually respond by buckling unevenly. Raising the heater off the wood flooring with short concrete blocks mitigates this threat. Using an air humidifier may also have unintended repercussions, so choose moisture-resistant sealers as a safeguard.
Getting off on the right foot with your new wooden flooring takes just a little extra planning and forethought. A properly protected deck or living room can easily be a treasure that will enhance the value, style, and comfort of your home for many years to come.