Maintaining Your Engineered Hardwood: Care Tips from the Experts

Engineered hardwood flooring is an investment in your home's beauty and value. With proper care and maintenance, it can remain stunning for decades. Here's everything you need to know to protect and preserve your floors.

Daily Maintenance

Prevention is the best maintenance. Use doormats at entrances to trap dirt and moisture. Sweep or vacuum regularly using a soft-bristle attachment to remove debris that can scratch the finish. For quick cleanups, a microfiber dust mop works wonders.

Cleaning Best Practices

When deeper cleaning is needed, use a hardwood floor cleaner specifically designed for engineered hardwood. Avoid excessive water—your mop should be only slightly damp. Never use steam cleaners, as heat and moisture can damage the wood layers. Clean up spills immediately to prevent water damage and staining.

Protecting Your Investment

Use felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches and dents. Avoid dragging furniture across the floor. Use area rugs in high-traffic zones, but ensure they have non-slip backing that won't trap moisture. Keep pet nails trimmed to minimize scratching.

Environmental Control

Maintain indoor humidity between 35-55% year-round. Use humidifiers in winter and dehumidifiers in summer as needed. Extreme humidity fluctuations can cause planks to expand or contract, potentially leading to gaps or cupping.

Addressing Damage

Minor scratches can often be buffed out or concealed with touch-up markers designed for hardwood. Deeper damage may require professional repair. The beauty of engineered hardwood is that the top layer can be refinished 1-2 times, depending on its thickness, giving your floor a new lease on life.