How to Care for the Most Popular Types of Flooring
You may wonder whether to keep or replace the flooring you have in your home, particularly if you have children or pets that make maintenance a challenge. There are many popular floor styles to choose from that are lower maintenance, such as carpet, or more elegant options, such as hardwood. These floor types can stay in good condition for years if you understand how to properly care for them.
The easiest, most versatile floor type for many homeowners is carpet. Be sure to vacuum carpet at least once a week; bagged vacuum cleaners provide greater performance, but if you prefer bagless vacuums, just be sure to go over high-traffic areas a bit more. Make sure to ask questions when you consult with the flooring professionals who will be installing and caring for your carpet. Let them know that you have pets and/or children and require stain-resistant and high-traffic carpet. Have your carpets professionally cleaned at least once a year and ask your installer what products your carpets should be cleaned with.
If you are considering installing hardwood floors, there are many durable woods that do not scratch easily, such as oak, so don’t let your lifestyle stop you from consulting a contractor about the possibility of installing a hardwood floor in your home. Regularly sweeping can help prevent dirt and debris from scratching the wood. All spills should be wiped up quickly, and a wet mop should typically never be used because the excess water can cause the wood to buckle. It will be worth your while to consult with a hardwood maintenance company to see if the finish on your wood floor is sound to prevent staining in the event of spills. Having a professional company perform regular maintenance on your hardwood floor every five years is best to keep it clean and increase longevity.
Whether you choose carpet, hardwood or some other type of flooring, experts can advise you on the best options for beauty, durability and care. By following their advice, you can better ensure that you’ll have a great looking floor for longer.