Floorcare

1. Clean floor after installation. Use a lightly dampened mop with no-wax floor cleaner specifically formulated for hardwood floors (preferably non-toxic, environmentally safe products). 2. Regularly dust mop, sweep with a soft bristle broom or vacuum with a soft accessory to keep your floor clean from dust, dirt or grit. 3. Remove spills and dirt promptly. A soft cloth wetted with water and then squeezed dry may be used to wipe up foodstuffs and other spills, provided the area is dried immediately. 4. When using any wood flooring cleaner that requires mixing with water, follow the mixing directions precisely. 5. Heel or scuff marks and stubborn stains may be removed by lightly rubbing with a cloth and a wood floor cleaner. 6. Place mats at all exterior entrances. This will capture much of the harmful dirt before it reaches the floor. 7. It is recommended to remove shoes (especially high-hell shoes) prior to walking on your floor. Alternatively, be sure to clean shoes well. Gravel, rocks and debris can get stuck in the bottom of shoes and scratch the finish. 8. Use area rugs on high traffic pathways. Only use colorfast and non-scratch area rugs on your floor. 9. Shake out, vacuum or wash mats and area rugs frequently. 10. Install floor protectors under all furniture legs. Make sure the floor protectors are large enough to distribute weight evenly. Keep the floor protectors clean of grit and replace them periodically. Wheels should have hardened-plastic casters at least 2″ in width depending on weight.11. Lift furniture when moving, instead of sliding across surface. 12. Keep pets’ claws trimmed. The will avoid excess scratches and gouges.13. Maintain relative humidity. Using a dehumidifier or humidifier to maintain relative humidity in the home at 30-50% will maintain the moisture level in the wood and help minimize cracks between the boards. Continued excessive humidity can cause swelling of the floor. Continued lack of humidity (below 20%) can cause shrinking of the planks and / or cracking of the floor boards.14. Do not let the floors under direct sunlight, too much heat will cause swelling and cupping on the floor boards. WHAT NOT TO DO 1. Do not allow floor cleaner or any other liquid to remain longstanding on your floor. 2. Do not let sand, dirt or grit build up. 3. Do not use a vacuum with a beater bar. 4. NEVER USE STEAM MOPS. Do not use a wet mop or sponge to clean the floor – excessive amounts of water will cause your floor to swell and cup. 5. Do not use steel wool or other abrasive scouring pads. 6. Do not use oil soap, scouring powder, abrasive cleansers or harsh detergents to clean your floor.