How To Properly Maintain Your Parquet Floors For Greater Longevity
Every day, people go online for tips and advice on how to maintain their homes. They could be searching for anything from creating the perfect dining room to looking after parquet floors. The latter takes a lot of time and money to install, so it’s important to maintain them well. In this article, we’ll discuss the best ways to care for your parquet floors so that they stay in top-notch shape for many years to come.
What Are Parquet Floors?
Parquet floors are made of wood, usually oak or walnut. They have a distinctive look because the individual pieces of wood are arranged in a geometric pattern. They were once very popular in Europe but fell out of favor for a while. Now, however, they’re making something of a comeback. Parquet floors have a beauty that other types of flooring can’t match. Their natural grain pattern can add warmth and elegance to any room.
There are several benefits to having parquet floors. Firstly, they resist scratches and dents better than hardwood floors, being very durable. With proper care, they can last for decades. Secondly, they’re easy to clean and maintain. Thirdly, they can add value to your home. If you ever decide to sell up, potential buyers will be impressed by your floors – and you’ll hopefully receive a good sale price.
Use A Professional Cleaning Company
A professional house cleaning Raleigh company, or cleaning company in your area, will have the proper tools and chemicals to clean parquet floors without damaging them. They use industrial-standard (high-powered) vacuums and buffers. They also have the experience to know what kind of finish is on the floor and how to properly clean it. These companies will typically offer a warranty on their work, so if something goes wrong, you can contact them. They’ll come back to fix the problem at no cost to you, saving you money in the long run.
It’s important to do some research and find a reputable company in your area. Perhaps you’re one of the 8.85 million people living in New York City. If so, the internet can help you find hardwood floor cleaning services in NYC, whether your building is residential or commercial. You can phone for free quotes and read client reviews before choosing certified technicians.
Regularly Sweep Or Vacuum Your Floors
Sweeping and vacuuming your floor on a regular basis is the best way to keep it free of dirt, dust, and other debris. That’ll help to prolong its life by preventing scratches and other damage that can occur from buildup. Use a soft-bristled broom to sweep your floors because that’ll prevent them from becoming scratched. Also, sweep in the direction of the grain to avoid damaging the floor’s finish. Finally, be sure to sweep under furniture and in other hard-to-reach areas.
Here are some tips for vacuuming your floors:
- Do this using the softest setting.
- Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment.
- Vacuum in the direction of the grain.
- Be careful not to go over the same area multiple times as this can cause harm.
- Go under furniture and in other hard-to-access areas.
Use The Right Cleaning Products
Not all cleaning products are created equal, and some can actually damage your flooring. This applies if you use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on your parquet floors. They can damage the finish and even eat away at the wood over time.
Ideally, look for cleaning products that are specifically designed for parquet floors. They’ll be gentle on the wood surface while still being effective at removing the dirt and grime that’s built up over time. Apply the cleaner with a soft cloth or mop and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Mop Regularly
An effective way to clean your parquet floors is by using a slightly dampened (not wet) microfiber cloth or sponge mop. That’ll help pick up any stubborn dirt, dust, or debris that can’t be removed using a standard dust mop. Always wring out the cloth or sponge before mopping, as you don’t want water pooling on your floor. If it does, it could lead to wood warping or cupping.
As we said earlier, avoid using any harsh chemicals or cleaners. Always opt for a pH-neutral, gentle product specifically designed for hardwood floors. Mop your floor at least once a week and if it looks particularly dull, add a little bit of vinegar to the water for extra shine.
Use Floor Polish Every Few Months
Floor polish can be applied to any type of hard flooring, including parquet floors. It’s a clear or tinted sealer that gives luster and sheen to dull floors. Most contain carnauba wax, resins, polyurethane, acrylics, or urethanes. Regular polishing not only adds beauty to your floors but also extends their life by protecting them from scratches, nicks, and other damage. Floor polish also makes cleaning easier because it fills in microscopic pores on the surface of the wood, making it more resistant to dirt and grime build-up.
Applying floor polish to your parquet floors is easy. First, make sure they’re clean and free of dirt and dust. Next, apply the polish with a mop or buffer. Start in the farthest corner of your room and work your way inwards. Be sure to use overlapping strokes so you don’t miss any spots. Let the floor dry for at least an hour before walking on it. You should use it every few months in order to keep your parquet floors looking their best. You can apply it more frequently if you have high traffic areas or if your floors are starting to look dull.
Be careful when moving furniture around and keep your pets’ nails trimmed to prevent surface scratches. Place rugs and mats at entrance ways and protect your flooring from excessive moisture and heat. If planks or panels become damaged you should replace them immediately. You now have a wide range of tips to help you maintain your parquet flooring. Not only will it look its best from now on, but it will serve you well into the future.
