Timber floors have been the first choice for flooring for homes for decades in Brisbane homes. Apart from giving a serene look to the house, they also add to the beauty and value for money of the house. Acquiring the look of your choice is one thing and keeping it the way it is, is another. As timber floors are gaining popularity, so are the products and quotes for their cleaning and maintenance jumps into the view.
But one thing important that should be kept in mind before opting for any cleaning procedure is that timber floors vary in color and texture based on their source and so does the coating applied. Different types of coatings require cleaning products that are specific to that type of timber coating only. So, it’s best suitable for your timber floor to make use of products that are specific for that type only.
GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR TIMBER FLOOR MAINTENANCE:
For timber floor maintenance, please follow these guidelines.
- After the timber floors have had the finishing coat applied, we recommend staying off them for 24 hours. Furniture may be returned to the timber floors after 48 hours
- We highly advise the need for protective felt pads on any part of furniture that comes into contact with the timber floor.
- Allow the floor to further “cure” for a week before laying any rugs.
- Chairs that have castors need a protective mat or rug to prevent damage to the floor.
PROTECTION FOR NEWLY POLISHED FLOORS:
Newly polished timber floors are reluctant to any dust particles or small stones carried with shoes onto the floor. They act like sandpaper and can cause attrition on the floor, leaving marks. The best way to avoid this situation is the use rugs and floor mats at high traffic areas which include your kitchen and living area. Mats with rubber bases should be avoided as they can stain your floor.
Use of shoes on the floor should be avoided as much as possible and if needed, should be checked for small stones, as these can seriously pit the timber. High heels also cause scuffing and scraping of the top coating.
Floor Cleaning Methods And Products:
Scheduled cleaning of the timber floors is a key factor in retaining the shine and smoothness of the timber floor. Timber floors can be kept clean with anti-static mops, regular sweeping, or vacuuming. Please ensure the vacuum head is in good working order as the metal head may scratch the timber floor.
Periodically your wooden floor can be cleaned with a damp mop. Do not overwet the floor as this will lead to an increase in the moisture content of the wood resulting in wear and tear of the timber.
For removing stains, a solution of half a cup of Methylated Spirits added to a bucket of warm water is the best way to keep your timber floors looking their best.
The use of chemicals, detergents, bleaching agents, kerosene oil, or rough clothes to clean the floor should always be avoided. Only the cleaning agents suitable according to your timber floors should be acquired.
BUDGET FLOOR SANDING-DOING ITS PART:
For a higher degree of damage, sanding, recoating, re-polishing, or replacement of floorboards is the ultimate solution. Where home remedies don’t work, the services of a professional should be acquired. We will give a free survey of your floors and will bring the timber floor polishing back to its brilliance.
Please contact us with any timber floor maintenance and floor sanding or polished timber floor questions that you may have. We will gladly share our knowledge, gained from years of sanding, and polishing Brisbane’s timber floors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Timber Floor Maintenance And Care
How long should I wait before using furniture on newly finished timber floors?
It is recommended to stay off newly finished timber floors for 24 hours. Furniture can be returned after 48 hours to allow the floor to properly cure and prevent any potential damage.
Do I need to use protective pads on furniture to prevent damage to timber floors?
Yes, it is highly advised to use protective felt pads on any furniture that comes into contact with timber floors. This helps prevent scratches and dents caused by the movement of furniture.
How long should I wait before placing rugs on newly finished timber floors?
It is recommended to wait for a week after the finishing coat has been applied before laying any rugs on the timber floors. This allows the floor to further cure and ensures a better bond between the floor and the rug.
How can I protect my timber floors from damage caused by chairs with castors?
Chairs with castors should have a protective mat or rug placed underneath them to prevent damage to the floor. This helps reduce the risk of scratching or denting caused by the movement of chairs.
How can I protect newly polished timber floors from dust particles and small stones?
To protect newly polished timber floors, it is advisable to use rugs and floor mats in high-traffic areas such as the kitchen and living areas. Mats with rubber bases should be avoided as they can cause staining on the floor.
Can I wear shoes on timber floors?
It is best to avoid wearing shoes on timber floors as much as possible. If shoes are necessary, ensure they are checked for small stones that can potentially pit the timber. High heels should also be avoided as they can cause scuffing and scraping of the top coating.
What are the recommended cleaning methods for timber floors?
Regular sweeping, vacuuming with an anti-static mop or a well-maintained vacuum cleaner, and periodic cleaning with a damp mop are effective methods for keeping timber floors clean. However, avoid overwetting the floor as excessive moisture can lead to damage.
How can I remove stains from timber floors?
A solution of half a cup of Methylated Spirits added to a bucket of warm water is recommended for removing stains from timber floors. Gently mop the stained area with the solution to maintain the floor’s appearance.
Are there any cleaning products I should avoid using on timber floors?
It is crucial to avoid using chemicals, detergents, bleaching agents, kerosene oil, or rough clothes to clean timber floors. Only use cleaning agents specifically suitable for your type of timber floors.
When should I seek professional assistance for timber floor care and maintenance?
If your timber floors have significant damage or home remedies are not effective, it is advisable to seek professional assistance. Professional services such as sanding, recoating, re-polishing, or floorboard replacement can restore the brilliance of your timber floors. Budget Floor Sanding offers free surveys and expertise in sanding and polishing Brisbane’s timber floors.