Floor Care and Maintenance

Daily Care

Most floor damage happens at the door. Grit tracked in on shoes acts like sandpaper under foot traffic. Put a coarse mat outside and an absorbent mat inside every entrance. This alone will double the life of your finish.

Sweep or vacuum daily in high-traffic areas. Use the hard floor setting on your vacuum — beater bars designed for carpet will scratch timber. A microfibre dust mop works just as well and is gentler on the surface.

Weekly Cleaning

Damp mop weekly with a pH-neutral timber floor cleaner. We recommend Bona Spray Mop or similar — spray lightly ahead of the mop and wipe. Never wet mop or pour water directly on the floor.

• Do: Use cleaners designed for polyurethane-finished timber
• Don't: Use vinegar, soap-based cleaners, or steam mops
• Don't: Use oil-based polishes on water-based finishes (or vice versa)

Spills and Stains

Wipe up spills immediately — timber finishes are water-resistant, not waterproof. Standing water will eventually penetrate joints and cause swelling or staining.

For sticky residue, dampen a cloth with floor cleaner and let it sit on the spot for a few minutes before wiping. Don't scrub with abrasives or scourers.

Scratch Prevention

Fit felt pads to the bottom of all furniture legs — chairs, tables, couches, beds. Replace them yearly or when they pick up grit. This is the single most effective way to prevent scratches.

• Use furniture cups under heavy items
• Lift furniture when moving — don't drag
• Keep pet nails trimmed
• Avoid stilettos and cleats on timber floors

Refreshing the Finish

Every 1-2 years, depending on traffic, apply Bona Refresher or a similar maintenance product. This adds a thin protective layer and restores lustre without sanding.

Clean the floor thoroughly first, let it dry completely, then apply a thin coat with a flat mop. Walk on it the next day.

When to Recoat

Recoat before you sand through the finish. Signs it's time:

• Water no longer beads on the surface
• Visible wear paths in doorways and halls
• Grey or dull patches where finish has worn thin
• Light scratches no longer buff out

A light sand and recoat is far cheaper than a full sand back. Do it every 7-10 years in a normal home, more often in high-traffic commercial spaces.

Humidity and Environment

Timber expands and contracts with humidity. Keep indoor humidity between 40-60% year-round. Use air conditioning or a dehumidifier in summer, and avoid excessive heating in winter that dries the air.

Small seasonal gaps between boards are normal. Large gaps or cupping suggest a humidity problem that should be addressed before it causes permanent damage.