Care and maintenance
How to Care for Your Timber Floor
By Design Timber Flooring · Updated · 2 min read
Practical protection and cleaning habits, guided by the instructions for your selected floor and finish.
Care starts with knowing your floor and finish. Keep the product details and written handover instructions: a factory-finished engineered board and a newly coated solid floor may need different treatment, especially immediately after installation.
Follow the handover instructions first
Confirm when light foot traffic, furniture, rugs and cleaning are permitted. There is no single waiting period that suits every coating, adhesive and site condition. If the programme changes, ask whether that affects when each room can return to use.
Keep grit off the surface
Use the cleaning method recommended for the selected floor, with a suitable soft attachment or mop. Remove grit before it is dragged across the surface. Choose entry mats that are compatible with the finish and check beneath them rather than leaving trapped moisture or debris unnoticed.
Manage spills and cleaning products
Wipe up spills promptly, as moisture left sitting on timber can lead to water-damaged boards. Follow the manufacturer's guidance on moisture and approved cleaners. Do not assume a steam mop, abrasive cleaner or household polishing product is suitable. If you do not know the existing coating, ask before applying a new treatment.
Protect against furniture movement
Lift furniture instead of dragging it. Use suitable protective pads and inspect them for trapped grit or wear. Consider how chairs and other regularly moved items contact the floor. For households with pets, our selection guide for homes with dogs explains the trade-offs to consider for new flooring.
Check changes rather than hiding them
Persistent staining, movement, lifting or new gaps deserve an assessment of the cause. A cosmetic treatment may not address an underlying problem. Whether a floor needs maintenance, recoating, sanding or hardwood repair depends on its condition and existing finish.
Ask about the appropriate next step
Our sanding and polishing service can assess suitable restoration options. Discuss your floor with Jimmy, including any product information and the changes you have noticed.
