As delightful as our furry friends are, they can sometimes be hard on our homes, particularly wooden floors. From minor scratches to more noticeable damage, keeping your wood floors looking their best can be a challenge. However, with the right approach, you can keep the beauty of your high-quality wood floors, even with extra family members in the house. Here are some handy tips for maintaining wood floors with pets.
Prevent Scratches By Keeping Nails Trimmed
Regularly trimming your pet’s nails is essential for preventing scratches on your wood floors. When a pet’s nails are long, especially big dogs that put a lot of weight on their paws, they can scrape against the floor’s surface and cause noticeable scratches. Trimming their nails can protect your floors and also make it more comfortable for them to walk on the hardwood.
Invest in Durable Wood
Investing in hard, durable wood can be beneficial for pet owners. Woods like oak, maple, hickory, mahogany, and bamboo are known for their durability and resistance to scratches. Sticking with lighter wood is also beneficial because scratches blend into lighter colors, whereas scratches, pet hair, and dander are more visible on darker wood.
Use Area Rugs or Runners
Strategically placed area rugs or runners can provide a protective layer on top of your wood floors. These are especially useful in high-traffic areas where your pet likes to play or hang out. Runners also provide your pets with a more slip-resistant surface, which is safer for them and can help prevent frantic skidding that can damage floors.
Clean Up Accidents Quickly
Accidents happen, especially with pets. Accidents can stain and even warp wooden floors, cause an unsightly spot, and leave a lingering odor if they are left unattended for too long. Keep pet-friendly and floor-friendly cleaning supplies handy, and as soon as you notice an accident, clean it up.
Add Protection Around Water Bowls
In addition to potty training mishaps, you should watch for damage around water bowls. Dogs tend to drink water in a messy manner, and the puddles and splashes can also damage your floors. Putting a mat down around any water dishes helps limit the amount of water on your hardwood floors.
Use Protective Coating
A strong finish can go a long way in protecting your wood floors from pet damage. Polyurethane finishes, for example, provide a hard, protective layer on the wood surface that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. Do not mop your hardwood floors with water or furniture polish.
Clean Floors Regularly
Regular cleaning can also help protect your wood floors. Dust and dirt can become abrasive under your pet’s paws and scratch your floors. Regular sweeping or using a vacuum with a hardwood-friendly setting can help remove these particles and keep your floors in top shape.
High-Quality Hardwood and Pet-Friendly Flooring
Pets and beautiful wood floors can coexist harmoniously with a little extra care and effort. By following these tips, you can enjoy the beauty of your high-quality wood floors for years to come, even with your furry friends running around. Clarkston Cabinets & Flooring can provide the perfect flooring for you and your family. Our experts will provide numerous flooring options that fit your home’s style and are durable enough to withstand whatever steps upon it. Call us at (248) 459-5514 or click here for a FREE estimate!
