How To Make Your Engineered Flooring Look New Again
31 Jan 2024
Engineered wood flooring is a popular choice for many homes due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. However, like all types of flooring, it can show signs of wear and tear over time. The good news is, with the right care and maintenance, you can make your engineered wood flooring look new again. In this post, we will explore some effective methods to rejuvenate your engineered wood floors.
Understanding Engineered Wood Flooring
Before diving into the restoration process, it's crucial to understand what engineered wood flooring is. Different types of surface finish will require different treatments so it’s important to know what type of finish your floor has. Unlike solid hardwood floors, engineered wood floors consist of multiple layers. The top layer is a veneer of real hardwood, while the underlying layers are typically cross-laminated to give additional strength and stability. This construction makes engineered wood floors more stable and less prone to warping or bowing compared to solid wood with the same look, feel and maintenance requirements as a solid product.
Regular Cleaning
The first step in maintaining the appearance of your engineered wood flooring is regular cleaning. Dirt, dust, and grit can act like sandpaper, scratching the surface of your floors. To prevent this:
- Sweep or Vacuum Regularly: Use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum with a hardwood floor attachment to remove dirt and debris.
- Mop with a Damp Cloth: Avoid excessive water as it can damage the wood. Use a damp mop with a mild, pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for wood floors.
- Use the right cleaning solution: Ensure you are using the right cleaning solution that is suitable for your floor’s finish:
- For lacquered finishes, use a cleaning solution like Marldon Multi Use Care which is a solution designed for lacquered and wax finish flooring.
- For UV Oil or wax finished, use a cleaning solution like Marldon Clean Care Concentrate. This cleaning solution specialises in oil and wax finish flooring.
Dealing with Scratches and Scuffs
Scratches and scuffs are inevitable, especially in high-traffic areas. To address these:
- Light Scratches: Use a wood floor repair kit that matches the colour of your flooring. These kits often include a filler or marker to camouflage minor scratches. If you have a lacquered finished flooring, you can use the Bona Wood Floor Refresher which is a ready to use maintenance protection that will revive dull and lightly scratched areas.
- Deeper Scratches: For deeper scratches, you might need to lightly sand the affected area and reapply a matching finish.
Refinishing Engineered Wood Floors
One of the advantages of engineered wood flooring is that it can be refinished in the same ways a solid hardwood floor. Refinishing involves sanding down the top layer and applying a new finish. This process will leave your floor almost good as new and you can even change the colour of your floor completely in this process! Refinishing should be done by a professional to achieve the best results and avoid damage to your floor.
Preventing Damage
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to protect your engineered wood flooring:
- Use Protective Pads: Place felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches.
- Rugs and Mats: Use rugs and mats in high-traffic areas to minimise wear.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on your floors.
- Maintain Indoor Humidity: Extreme changes in humidity can affect engineered wood floors. Try to maintain a consistent indoor humidity level.
Deep Cleaning
Occasionally, your floors might need a deep clean, especially in areas like the kitchen or entryways. You can use a wood floor cleaner for this purpose, but avoid steam cleaning as the intense heat and moisture can damage the engineered wood.
Spot Treat Stains
If you encounter stains:
- Liquid Spills: Wipe them up immediately with a soft, dry cloth.
- Tough Stains: Use a cleaner specified for engineered wood floors. Test it in an inconspicuous area first.
Professional Help
If your flooring is extensively damaged or you're unsure about DIY methods, it’s best to consult a professional. Flooring experts can assess the condition of your floors and recommend the best course of action, whether it’s a deep clean, minor repairs, or a full refinish.
Engineered wood flooring combines the beauty of hardwood with added durability. With regular maintenance, prompt attention to spills and scratches, and occasional deep cleaning, you can keep your engineered wood floors looking as good as new for years to come. Remember, the key to preserving the beauty of your floors lies in regular care and using the right techniques and products.
If you are interested in finding out more information about the particular kind of care for your engineered hardwood flooring see our guides based on specific finishes:
Lacquered Flooring Maintenance and Care Guide
Natural Oil Wood Flooring Maintenance and Care Guide
UV Oil Flooring Maintenance and Care Guide
Unfinished Wood Flooring Maintenance and Care Guide
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Havwoods engineered wood flooring remains a stunning and durable feature of your home. Whether you're dealing with everyday wear or looking for a complete refresh, there's always a way to restore the beauty of your engineered wood floors.