Best Flooring Options for Families with Pets

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When choosing flooring for a home with pets, the priorities often include durability, scratch resistance, ease of cleaning, and comfort. Pets, especially dogs and cats, can be tough on floors, so selecting the right type of flooring is essential to ensure it can withstand the wear and tear while still maintaining a stylish and luxurious appearance. Here’s a guide to the best flooring options for families with pets.

1. Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVF)

Luxury vinyl flooring is a top contender for pet-friendly homes. It’s known for its exceptional durability and resistance to scratches and dents, which is essential when you have pets with claws. LVF is also water-resistant, making it an excellent choice for areas where spills, accidents, or pet water bowls are common.

In addition to its practical benefits, luxury vinyl is available in a wide variety of styles, including designs that mimic the look of hardwood, stone, or tile, allowing you to achieve a luxurious aesthetic without the high maintenance. Its soft underfoot feel provides comfort for pets, making it a comfortable option for them to walk and lay on.

2. Porcelain and Ceramic Tile

Porcelain and ceramic tiles are some of the most durable flooring options available, making them ideal for homes with pets. These tiles are highly resistant to scratches and water, so you won’t have to worry about damage from claws or accidents. They are also easy to clean, which is a major plus for pet owners.

Tiles come in various designs, colors, and textures, allowing you to create a luxurious look that complements your home’s decor. For pet safety, consider choosing a tile with a textured or matte finish to prevent slipping, especially for older pets who may have mobility issues.

3. Engineered Hardwood Flooring

While solid hardwood might not be the best option for pet owners due to its susceptibility to scratches and water damage, engineered hardwood is a more pet-friendly alternative. Engineered hardwood consists of a real wood veneer over a core of plywood, making it more stable and resistant to moisture.

When selecting engineered hardwood, choose a species that is harder and more scratch-resistant, such as oak, hickory, or maple. A low-gloss or matte finish will help hide scratches, and regular maintenance will keep the floors looking great. Engineered hardwood provides the natural beauty of wood with added durability, making it a great option for pet owners who don’t want to compromise on style.

4. Bamboo Flooring

Bamboo flooring is an excellent choice for pet-friendly homes due to its hardness and durability. It is more resistant to scratches and dents than many traditional hardwoods, which is beneficial for homes with pets. Bamboo is also a sustainable and eco-friendly flooring option.

In addition to its toughness, bamboo has natural antibacterial properties, which can help keep your home cleaner and healthier for both pets and humans. Its sleek, contemporary look adds a touch of luxury to any space, and it’s available in a variety of finishes to suit different tastes.

5. Cork Flooring

Cork flooring is a pet-friendly option that offers a unique combination of comfort and durability. Cork is naturally soft and resilient, providing a cushioned surface that is comfortable for pets to walk and lay on. It’s also a good insulator, keeping rooms warmer and quieter—an added benefit for homes with pets.

Cork is resistant to moisture, mold, and mildew, making it a healthy choice for pet owners. It’s also hypoallergenic and antimicrobial, which helps reduce allergens in the home. While cork can be susceptible to scratches, choosing a high-quality product with a strong finish can help minimize this issue.

6. Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is another pet-friendly option that offers a durable, scratch-resistant surface. Modern laminate flooring is designed to mimic the look of hardwood, stone, or tile, providing a luxurious appearance at a more affordable price. Laminate is also water-resistant, which is beneficial for homes with pets.

One of the advantages of laminate flooring is its easy maintenance—spills and pet accidents can be quickly wiped up without worrying about staining or damage. However, it’s essential to choose a laminate with a textured surface to prevent slipping, as some laminates can be slippery for pets.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing flooring for a home with pets, durability, scratch resistance, and ease of maintenance are key factors to consider. Luxury vinyl, porcelain and ceramic tile, engineered hardwood, bamboo, cork, and laminate are all excellent options that can withstand the challenges pets bring while still offering a stylish and luxurious look.

By selecting the right flooring, you can create a beautiful, pet-friendly home that meets the needs of your furry family members while enhancing the overall aesthetic and comfort of your living space.

Best Luxury Flooring Options for Families with Young Kids

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When designing a family-friendly home, especially one that caters to the needs of young children, selecting the right flooring is crucial. Luxury flooring adds elegance and style to your home, but it also needs to be durable, safe, and easy to maintain—key considerations for any family with young kids. In this post, we’ll explore the best types of luxury flooring that meet the demands of a busy household while providing a beautiful, high-end look.

1. Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVF)

Luxury vinyl flooring is a top choice for families with young children. It offers the perfect balance of style, durability, and practicality. LVF is available in a wide variety of designs, including those that mimic the appearance of hardwood, stone, or tile, giving you the look of luxury without the high cost or maintenance.

LVF is highly durable, resistant to scratches, and can withstand heavy foot traffic—perfect for households where kids are constantly on the move. It’s also water-resistant, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and play areas where spills are inevitable. Additionally, luxury vinyl is softer underfoot compared to other hard flooring options, which provides some cushioning in case of falls.

2. Engineered Hardwood Flooring

Engineered hardwood flooring combines the beauty of natural wood with enhanced durability, making it a great option for families. Unlike solid hardwood, engineered hardwood consists of a real wood veneer on top of multiple layers of plywood, which provides greater stability and resistance to moisture.

For homes with young children, opt for a matte or low-gloss finish, which is better at hiding scratches and scuffs. Engineered hardwood is easier to maintain than traditional hardwood and can be refinished if needed. Its timeless appeal adds value to your home while standing up to the wear and tear of family life.

3. Cork Flooring

Cork flooring is an eco-friendly, comfortable, and safe option that’s ideal for homes with young kids. Cork is naturally soft and resilient, providing a cushioned surface that’s gentle on little feet and helps to reduce the impact of falls. This flooring is also a good insulator, keeping rooms warmer and quieter—perfect for play areas and bedrooms.

Cork is antimicrobial and hypoallergenic, making it a healthy choice for children prone to allergies. Additionally, it is resistant to mold, mildew, and moisture, which is beneficial in busy households. The unique, organic appearance of cork adds a natural and inviting feel to any room.

4. Porcelain and Ceramic Tile

Porcelain and ceramic tiles are both durable and easy to clean, making them suitable for families with young children. These tiles can withstand heavy traffic, spills, and even the occasional dropped toy. They are available in various designs, colors, and textures, allowing you to create a luxurious look that complements your home’s style.

To make tile flooring safer for kids, opt for tiles with a textured or matte finish to reduce the risk of slipping. In addition, installing radiant floor heating underneath tile can help to keep the floor warm and comfortable for little ones, especially in colder climates.

5. Carpet Tiles

While traditional carpeting might not be the best choice for families with young kids due to its tendency to trap dirt and spills, carpet tiles offer a practical and stylish alternative. Carpet tiles are individual squares of carpet that can be installed to create a custom design. They’re easy to clean, and if a tile becomes stained or damaged, it can be replaced without needing to redo the entire floor.

Carpet tiles provide a soft, cushioned surface that’s ideal for play areas and bedrooms. They also come in a wide range of colors and patterns, allowing you to create a vibrant and fun space for your children while still maintaining a luxurious feel in your home.

6. Bamboo Flooring

Bamboo flooring is a sustainable and durable option that’s perfect for families. It is harder than many traditional hardwoods, making it resistant to scratches and dents—a common concern in homes with young children. Bamboo also has natural antibacterial properties, which help keep your home healthier.

Bamboo flooring is easy to clean and maintain, and its natural, contemporary look adds a touch of luxury to any room. When choosing bamboo, look for a high-quality product with a strong finish to ensure it can handle the rigors of family life.

Conclusion

Selecting the right luxury flooring for a family with young children requires a careful balance of beauty, durability, and safety. Luxury vinyl, engineered hardwood, cork, porcelain and ceramic tiles, carpet tiles, and bamboo are all excellent options that can withstand the demands of a busy household while providing a stylish, high-end look.

These flooring options not only enhance the aesthetic of your home but also offer practical benefits like easy maintenance, comfort, and safety—ensuring that your home remains a beautiful, welcoming space for your entire family to enjoy.

Should You Replace or Refinish Your Hardwood Floors?

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Should You Replace or Refinish Your Hardwood Floors? A Comprehensive Guide

Hardwood floors are a timeless and durable option for homes, but even the most well-maintained floors can start to show wear over time. Whether you’ve just moved into a new home with old floors or your current floors are looking a bit tired, you might be wondering whether to replace or refinish them. Both options have their pros and cons, and the best choice depends on several factors, including the condition of the floors, your budget, and your long-term plans for your home. Here’s how to decide which path is right for you.

1. Assess the Condition of Your Floors

The first step in deciding whether to replace or refinish is to assess the current state of your hardwood floors. Consider the following factors:

  • Surface Damage: Scratches, dents, and surface-level wear are common over time, especially in high-traffic areas. If the damage is primarily surface-level, refinishing can restore the floor to its original beauty.
  • Deep Gouges and Warping: If the floor has deep gouges, water damage, or warping, it might be beyond the help of refinishing. Warped or buckled boards, in particular, often need to be replaced rather than sanded down.
  • Staining and Discoloration: Pet stains, water stains, or heavy discoloration can sometimes penetrate the wood deeply. While refinishing may help in some cases, replacing the affected boards might be necessary if the stains are too deep.
  • Thickness of the Wood: Refinishing involves sanding down the wood to remove the damaged layer. If your hardwood floors have been refinished multiple times before, they may be too thin to withstand another sanding, in which case replacement might be the only option.

2. Consider the Age and Style of Your Floors

The age and style of your hardwood floors can also influence your decision:

  • Historic or Unique Floors: If your home has original or unique hardwood floors that add character, refinishing is often the preferred option to preserve their historical value. Replacing them might diminish the home’s charm.
  • Outdated Styles: On the other hand, if the floors are outdated in style or don’t match your design preferences, replacement may be a better choice. This allows you to choose a wood species, finish, and plank width that better suits your aesthetic.

3. Evaluate Your Budget

Budget is a major consideration in the replace-or-refinish debate:

  • Cost of Refinishing: Refinishing hardwood floors is generally less expensive than replacing them. The process involves sanding down the top layer of the wood, applying a new stain (if desired), and sealing the floor. However, the cost can increase if extensive repairs or multiple coats of finish are needed.
  • Cost of Replacement: Replacing hardwood floors is more expensive, as it involves removing the old floor, preparing the subfloor, and installing new flooring. The cost will vary depending on the wood species, quality, and installation method. If your floors are severely damaged or if you want a complete change in style, replacement might be worth the investment.

4. Think About the Time and Effort Involved

The time and effort required for each option is another important factor:

  • Refinishing: Refinishing hardwood floors typically takes a few days to a week, depending on the size of the area and the complexity of the job. You may need to vacate the space during the process to avoid fumes and dust. The end result, however, is a refreshed floor that looks almost brand new.
  • Replacement: Replacing floors is a more involved process that can take several days to weeks, depending on the size of the project and any additional work required, such as subfloor repairs. While the process is more disruptive, it allows you to completely transform the look of your home.

5. Consider Long-Term Value and Durability

Finally, think about the long-term implications of your decision:

  • Longevity of Refinishing: A well-refinished floor can last another 7-10 years or more, depending on traffic and maintenance. If you plan to stay in your home for many years, refinishing can be a cost-effective way to extend the life of your floors.
  • Durability of Replacement: Replacing your floors gives you a brand-new surface with full thickness, meaning you’ll get the maximum lifespan out of the new wood. If your current floors are on their last legs, replacement might be the better long-term investment.

Conclusion

Deciding whether to replace or refinish your hardwood floors depends on several factors, including the condition of the floors, your budget, the time you’re willing to invest, and your long-term plans for your home. If your floors have only surface-level damage or you want to preserve their character, refinishing is often the best choice. However, if the floors are heavily damaged, outdated, or you’re looking for a complete transformation, replacing them may be worth the investment.

By carefully weighing these considerations, you can make an informed decision that enhances the beauty and value of your home for years to come.

How to Select the Perfect Hardwood Flooring for Your Home

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Choosing the right hardwood flooring for your home is an exciting yet challenging task. With a myriad of options available, from different wood species to finishes, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure that your investment not only enhances your home’s aesthetic appeal but also stands the test of time. Here’s a guide to help you navigate through the decision-making process.

1. Understand Your Style and Aesthetic Preferences

Your hardwood floor should complement your home’s interior design. Here are a few considerations:

  • Color: Hardwood floors come in a variety of colors, ranging from light to dark. Light woods, like maple or oak, can make a room feel larger and more open, while darker woods, like walnut or mahogany, add warmth and a sense of coziness.
  • Grain Pattern: The grain pattern of the wood can also impact the overall look. For a more rustic or traditional feel, woods with pronounced grain patterns, like oak, are ideal. For a sleek, modern look, opt for woods with subtle grains, such as maple.
  • Plank Width: Wider planks can create a more contemporary or rustic vibe, while narrower planks are often associated with traditional settings.

2. Consider Durability and Lifestyle Needs

Different wood species have varying levels of hardness, which affects their durability. The Janka hardness scale is a standard measure used to determine how resistant a wood species is to wear and dents.

  • High-Traffic Areas: If you have pets, children, or high-traffic areas, consider harder wood species like hickory, maple, or oak. These are less prone to scratches and dents.
  • Low-Traffic Areas: Softer woods, such as cherry or walnut, may be suitable for bedrooms or other low-traffic areas where the risk of damage is lower.

3. Evaluate Maintenance Requirements

Maintenance is a crucial factor to consider when selecting hardwood flooring.

  • Finish Type: Floors with a matte or satin finish can hide scratches and dust better than glossy finishes, which require more frequent cleaning and maintenance.
  • Solid vs. Engineered Hardwood: Solid hardwood can be sanded and refinished multiple times, making it a long-lasting choice. Engineered hardwood, while less durable in terms of refinishing, is more resistant to moisture and temperature changes, making it suitable for basements or areas with fluctuating humidity levels.

4. Think About Your Budget

Your budget will significantly influence your choices. Hardwood flooring prices can vary depending on the wood species, quality, and whether you choose solid or engineered wood.

  • Wood Species: Exotic woods, such as Brazilian cherry or teak, tend to be more expensive than domestic options like oak or maple.
  • Installation Costs: The installation method (nail-down, glue-down, or floating) can also affect the overall cost. While DIY installation can save money, it’s often recommended to hire professionals for the best results.

5. Consider Environmental Impact

If sustainability is important to you, consider eco-friendly options:

  • FSC-Certified Wood: Look for wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which ensures that the wood is harvested from responsibly managed forests.
    Reclaimed Wood: Reclaimed or salvaged wood is a great eco-friendly option that adds character and history to your home.
  • Engineered Wood: Engineered wood typically uses less hardwood per plank, making it a more sustainable option than solid wood.

6. Test Samples in Your Home

Before making a final decision, it’s wise to order samples and see how they look in your home’s lighting. Natural light, artificial light, and shadows can all affect how the wood appears, so place samples in different rooms and at various times of day to ensure you’re happy with your choice.

Conclusion

Selecting the perfect hardwood flooring for your home involves balancing aesthetics, durability, maintenance, budget, and environmental considerations. By carefully evaluating your needs and preferences, you can choose a flooring option that not only enhances your home’s beauty but also stands the test of time. Whether you opt for the timeless elegance of oak or the rich warmth of walnut, the right hardwood floor will undoubtedly add value and charm to your living space.

Rustic Hardwood Flooring

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Rustic hardwood flooring has become a popular choice among homeowners and designers seeking to infuse warmth and character into their living spaces. This type of flooring is characterized by its natural, rugged appearance, showcasing the wood’s unique grains, knots, and imperfections. Unlike traditional polished hardwood, rustic hardwood flooring embraces these flaws, turning them into aesthetic features that add depth and personality to a room. This flooring style is particularly favored in country, farmhouse, and cabin-style homes, but it can also be used to add a touch of nature and authenticity to modern interiors.

One of the key benefits of rustic hardwood flooring is its durability. Made from strong, high-quality wood species such as oak, hickory, or pine, these floors are designed to withstand heavy foot traffic and the wear and tear of daily life. The natural textures and patterns of rustic wood also help to conceal scratches and dents, making it a practical choice for families with children or pets. Over time, the floor’s patina develops, enhancing its charm and character rather than detracting from its appearance. This longevity makes rustic hardwood flooring a worthwhile investment for any home.

In addition to its durability, rustic hardwood flooring offers versatility in design. The wide variety of wood species, stains, and finishes available allows homeowners to customize their floors to suit their personal style and the overall decor of their home. Whether opting for a lighter, more contemporary look with a whitewashed finish or a rich, dark stain for a more traditional feel, the possibilities are endless. The natural variations in the wood ensure that no two floors are exactly alike, providing a unique and personalized touch to each installation.

Installing rustic hardwood flooring can also enhance the value of a home. Real wood floors are highly sought after by potential buyers due to their timeless appeal and durability. Rustic hardwood, in particular, can create a cozy, inviting atmosphere that resonates with many people. The organic, earthy tones of the wood can complement a wide range of interior styles, from minimalist to eclectic, making it a versatile choice for those looking to update their home’s aesthetic. Overall, rustic hardwood flooring is not only a practical and durable option but also a stylish and valuable addition to any living space.

Visit Classic Floor Designs to find out about Rustic Hardwood Flooring options or call 202.872.9860

TYPES OF CARPET FOR YOUR HOME FLOORING

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When it comes to choosing the best carpet for your home, there are a few key factors to consider. From material and style to durability and maintenance, the right carpet can make a big difference in the look and feel of your space. Here are some of the best types of carpet to consider for your home:

1. Nylon Carpet: Nylon is one of the most popular carpet materials due to its durability and resilience. It is great for high-traffic areas and is resistant to stains and abrasion, making it a great choice for busy households.

2. Wool Carpet: Wool is a natural and luxurious option for carpeting. It is known for its softness, durability, and natural stain resistance. Wool carpet is also environmentally friendly and has excellent insulating properties.

3. Polyester Carpet: Polyester carpet is a budget-friendly option that offers a soft and luxurious feel. It is also naturally stain-resistant and easy to clean, making it a great choice for homes with pets and children.

4. Cut Pile Carpet: Cut pile carpet is a popular choice for its plush and luxurious feel. It is available in a variety of styles, including Saxony, textured, and frieze, allowing you to choose the perfect look for your home.

5. Berber Carpet: Berber carpet is known for its looped construction, which creates a durable and textured surface. It is a great option for high-traffic areas and is resistant to stains and wear.

When choosing the best carpet for your home, it’s important to consider the specific needs of your space, as well as your lifestyle and budget. Whether you’re looking for durability, softness, or stain resistance, there are plenty of options to choose from.

TOP 5 HOME FLOORING TRENDS FOR SUMMER 2024

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Are you looking to update your home flooring this summer? Here are some of the top flooring trends to consider for 2024.

1. Sustainable Materials: With a growing focus on sustainability, many homeowners are opting for eco-friendly flooring options such as bamboo, cork, or reclaimed wood. These materials not only look great but also help reduce your carbon footprint.

2. Bold Patterns: Make a statement with your flooring by choosing bold patterns and designs. Whether it’s geometric shapes, intricate tile patterns, or colorful motifs, adding a pop of personality to your floors can really liven up a room.

3. Luxury Vinyl: For those looking for a durable and low-maintenance option, luxury vinyl flooring is a popular choice. With advancements in technology, vinyl now comes in a wide variety of styles and can mimic the look of natural materials like hardwood or stone.

4. Mixed Materials: Get creative with your flooring by mixing different materials in the same space. For example, combine hardwood with tile or use different types of carpet to create distinct zones within a room.

5. Warm Tones: Embrace the warmth of summer with flooring in rich, warm tones such as honey oak, caramel, or terracotta. These colors can bring a cozy and inviting feel to your home.

Whether you’re looking for a sustainable option, a bold statement piece, or a low-maintenance solution, there are plenty of exciting flooring trends to explore this summer. Consider these options to give your home a fresh new look for 2024.

TIPS ON PROTECTING YOUR HARDWOOD FLOORS THIS SUMMER!

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With summer just around the corner, it’s important to think about how to protect your hardwood floors from the potential damage that can come with the season. From increased foot traffic to humidity and direct sunlight, there are several factors that can take a toll on your beautiful hardwood floors. But fear not, with a few simple steps, you can keep your hardwood floors looking great all summer long.

1. Use Area Rugs: One of the easiest ways to protect your hardwood floors is by using area rugs in high-traffic areas. Not only do they add a decorative touch to your home, but they also act as a barrier between your hardwood floors and the wear and tear of summer activities.

2. Control Humidity: Summer often brings higher humidity levels, which can cause wood to expand and contract, leading to warping and buckling. To combat this, consider using a dehumidifier to maintain a consistent level of humidity in your home.

3. Protect from Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause your hardwood floors to fade and lose their luster. Consider using curtains or blinds to block out the harsh rays during the sunniest parts of the day.

4. Clean Regularly: With more outdoor activities happening during the summer, it’s important to keep up with regular cleaning to prevent dirt and debris from scratching and dulling your hardwood floors. Use a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum with a floor brush attachment to gently remove any dirt and dust.

5. Use Protective Pads: Whether it’s furniture or heavy appliances, consider using felt or rubber pads on the bottom of these items to prevent scratches and dents on your hardwood floors.

By taking these simple steps, you can ensure that your hardwood floors stay in top condition throughout the summer months. With a little extra care and attention, you can enjoy the beauty of your hardwood floors for years to come.

Tips for Cleaning Hardwood Floors

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Hardwood flooring enhances the appearance of any room in your home, but these rugged surfaces represent a big investment. Like any investment, you want to be sure that you get the highest returns possible. When it comes to flooring, proper cleaning of hardwood determines your ability to enjoy their beauty for many years without worrying about damage or repairs.

Here at Classic Floor Designs, we recommend a regular cleaning regimen to maintain the original appearance of your hardwood floors. There’s a lot of conflicting information out there about what products to use, what methods to avoid and how often to clean. We hope that these tips will help clear up any confusion and guide you in preserving the floors you love.

Know Your Floor Type
There are two types of wood flooring: solid and engineered. Both offer the beautiful appearance that makes hardwood so attractive, but the materials differ slightly when it comes to routine cleaning and long-term care.

Solid floors are made from single pieces of hardwood that are generally about three-quarters of an inch thick. Most come finished with a protective coating that creates a reflective “high gloss” look. Solid wood is available in many common and exotic varieties that can be sanded and refinished up to ten times over the life of the floor.

Engineered flooring is pieced together from three to five layers of high- or medium-density fiberboard with a thin hardwood veneer on top. Because of the minimal amount of hardwood used, these floors can only undergo one to two rounds of refinishing. However, they tend to be more durable than solid floors when it comes to handling high foot traffic and varying levels of humidity.

Invest in Mats and Rugs
Preventative maintenance cuts down on the amount of dirt and grime that comes in contact with your floors. Place a heavy-duty mat outside your front door for people to wipe their shoes on, and position another mat just inside the threshold. Have visitors and family members remove their shoes before stepping inside. Use a boot or shoe tray to keep footwear organized and away from the wood surface.

Area rugs are perfect for high-traffic spots or rooms where kids spend a lot of time. Rugs keep messes off the floor and are generally easier to clean than the wood itself. Use rugs with backings to reduce the risk of slipping, but make sure that the backing material is something that won’t damage the floor.

Grab a Broom
Quick cleaning on a daily, bi-weekly or weekly basis can be done using a soft-bristled broom and a dustpan. This removes superficial dirt before it becomes ingrained in the floor surface. Small brooms and handheld vacuums are useful for cleaning in corners. To get rid of even more dust and debris, try a sweeper that uses electrostatic dust cloths. Pay special attention to areas where dirt is most likely to build up, such as the kitchen, the front hallway and the bathroom.

Take Care With the Vacuum Cleaner
Opinions differ on how often you should vacuum hardwood floors. For high-traffic areas, daily vacuuming may be necessary to remove deeper dirt. In other rooms, bi-weekly or weekly vacuuming should suffice.

One thing that everyone agrees on is to never use a beater bar. The harsh bristles can damage the finish and leave it looking dull. Instead, use the hardwood floor setting or a floor brush attachment to lift away dirt. Electric brooms are also gentle enough to use for frequent cleaning. Don’t be tempted by the “deeper clean” that floor buffers claim to offer. The abrasive pads can ruin the surface of the wood.

Be Smart About Deep Cleaning
Even with preventative maintenance and routine cleaning, wood flooring still winds up with grime, oil and stubborn dirt on its surface. That’s why it’s important to clean the floor more aggressively once or twice a year. However, you have to use the correct kind of cleaning products and tools. Your goal should be to leave no standing water at all and avoid harsh substances that can scratch or dull the finish.

The best cleaning solutions are mild and include mixtures of dish soap and water; a solution of water, olive oil and lemon juice; hot water and borax; and lukewarm black tea. Apply your chosen cleaner using a damp mop by dipping the mop into the solution and wringing it out until it’s almost dry. Finish off by buffing the floor with a towel. Alternatively, you can place the cleaner in a spray bottle and mist the floor as you go.

Never use any of the following cleaning methods or solutions on a wood floor:

• Wet mopping
• Steam cleaning
• Vinegar solutions
• Ammonia-based cleaners
• Furniture polish
• Wax- or oil-based cleaners

All of these can cause damage or result in slick floors that pose a hazard to you and your family.

Spot Cleaning
Diligence in regular cleaning will prevent the most serious messes, but it’s impossible to completely avoid scuffs, marks and spots. If you discover any blemishes on your wood floor, sprinkle the area with baking soda and clean it with a damp sponge. The dirt should lift right off.

Drips, spills, sticky streaks and food that can dry onto the floor should be cleaned up immediately. If you miss something and find an unidentifiable substance stuck to the wood, use a cleaner formulated to remove tough dirt and wipe with a gentle cloth. Deep stains and spots may require sanding and refinishing to remove.

Following these tips may seem like a lot of work, but it’s worth the effort when it comes to maintaining your hardwood floors. As you begin to incorporate each step into your regular cleaning regimen, you’ll see the true beauty of the wood begin to shine through. All it takes to continue enjoying that beauty is to devote a little extra time each day to proper floor care. In our opinion, it’s time well spent.

 

Photo Credit: <a href=”https://www.flickr.com/photos/38906013@N05/3577027339/”>Revolution Mills</a> via <a href=”http://compfight.com”>Compfight</a> <a href=”https://www.flickr.com/help/general/#147″>cc</a>

Household Color to Go with Hardwood

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Unless you’re going with a completely eclectic design, decorating your interior living space is all about adhering to a theme (and indeed, eclectic designs can be considered a theme in of themselves). Many times, a theme has a lot to do with color: the floors, the paintings, the furniture, and so on. So with that in mind, what are the best color options to match your hardwood flooring with your walls? In this article, we will talk about the easiest and best ways to make your living space really mesh between the walls and floors.

The great thing about wood, other than its elegance and its ease of maintenance, is that there is a wide abundance of colors to choose from. There is no such thing as a “standard” color of wood floor: you can pick from a wide variety of tree species, undertones, and stains. Indeed, there are so many options that it can even be overwhelming when trying to match a floor to a wall, but that’s what we’re here for!

The simplest thing you can do to coordinate color between the floor and wall is to pick a neutral tone of paint for the walls. Virtually any color of wood pairs nicely with a neutral wall (white is a very popular option). Even mixed wood floors will do well when put against a neutral background, allowing you a bit of creative freedom when it comes to installation. If you’re worried about the space not having enough personality, throw in some colorful furniture and/or rugs to make it vibrant.

For some people, however, neutral colors are boring. So many people have white or similarly-colored walls, so perhaps you want to break the mold and do something off-kilter. Perhaps you should consider choosing a wall shade comparable to your floorboards. If your wood has golden or reddish undertones going for it, paint your walls a warm color as a complement. Orange flooring pairs nicely with rust-colored or terracotta walls, and rich, red woods look gorgeous next to a wine or burgundy paint. Pair gray or ashen woods with cool colors like blue or green.

Now, what if you want to take it one step farther and go for an off-the-wall, bold look? That’s simple, as well: play up the contrast. Find out what shade of wood you have, look opposite the color wheel, and bam, there’s the color of your walls. As an example, if your wood has a warm color like orange or gold, paint the walls a cool blue or gray. Both surfaces end up popping when you go with such a paint scheme, so don’t be afraid to experiment!

What colors do you like on your walls?

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