Anyone who’s considering getting hardwood flooring will run into some common misconceptions. Most tend to revolve around hardwood floor maintenance.

The following are four of the misconceptions you might have heard about maintaining a hardwood floor. Homeowners throughout Northeast Ohio and Western Pennsylvania often bring them up in our consultations.

We, the experts at American Floor Care, explain to you why they’re untrue and what to genuinely expect.

Misconception #1: Hardwood floors are more difficult to maintain than other types

The reality is that hardwood floors are among the easiest types of flooring to maintain. Removing dust and debris is much easier than on a carpet, for example. And they don’t harbor hazards like dust mites or pet dander, plus they’re stain-resistant.

Hardwood also doesn’t crack as easily as tile. And it’s easier to sweep and vacuum.

In addition, when hardwood floors get damaged, they don’t need to be replaced. Refinishing gets rid of even the most subtle marks and allows the floor to look and shine like new.

When you consider these factors together, it's clear that hardwood floors certainly don't need greater effort to maintain than other options.

Misconception #2: Hardwood floors are expensive to maintain

Another misconception you’ll come across is that it’s expensive to maintain a hardwood floor. Some may try to convince you that when you consider the cost of refinishing, you end up with a flooring material that’s costlier than alternatives.

But that doesn’t add up.

The pricing of refinishing hardwood floors is closely comparable to that of putting in a mid-range carpet. But where hardwood floors have the advantage is that they last longer. While a carpet will last you between 5 and 15 years (in very rare cases), you can expect a hardwood floor to retain its quality for between 15 and 20 years.

And, when hardwood floors get scuffed or worn, you don’t need to replace them the way you do with other types. Refinishing alone makes them look new again.

Misconception #3: You can clean hardwood floors with anything

Although hardwood floors are generally highly durable, it’s important to remember that cleaning with the wrong materials can leave the floor dull, scratched, or discolored.

Simply clean your floors regularly with a neutral solution. And a damp mop works just fine. We recommend using white vinegar and water.

Besides that, you can exercise some extra care with how everyone in your household treats the floor. Encourage taking shoes off before getting inside, along with placing entrance mats outside the door.

Misconception #4: You can always sand a prefinished floor

It’s common for homeowners looking to buy hardwood floors to be sold prefinished ones. The main selling point is often that they’re easy to refinish when they wear off or scratch. The truth is quite different.

Prefinished hardwood floors don’t sand well. Besides, you can’t really change the color. Although you might get assurances that they’re easy to refinish, the result is rarely pleasing.

Installing unfinished hardwood floors is always the better option for quality refinishing and room for choice with colors.

Protect your investment with hardwood floor maintenance from American Floor Care

Your hardwood floor is an investment into how you experience your home, as well as your property value. American Floor Care has been taking care of hardwood floors for over 20 years. Our team of flooring contractors can help you with maintaining your hardwood floor, ensuring that it always looks its best and lasts as long as possible.

We serve the Warren and Youngstown area.

Call us today at 330-847-9100 or book an appointment with us to get the most out of your hardwood floor.