Important Guidelines for Caring for Your Hardwood Floors

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At Reliable Floors, we take pride in delivering high-quality results. To ensure your newly refinished floors cure properly and stay beautiful for years to come, please follow these essential guidelines:

Disposal: We are not responsible for removing garbage after the job, but a disposal service is available upon request.

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Protecting Your Floors:

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• Do not use painter’s tape on finished floors, as it may cause damage.

• Finished hardwood floors are easy to scratch or even damage if handled improperly. Protect your floors from contractors and other workers by covering them if other construction tasks will be carried out after installation.

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Seasonal gaps:

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• "Seasonal gaps" on wood floors refer to small spaces that appear between floorboards during colder, drier months due to the natural tendency of wood to shrink when it loses moisture in changing environmental conditions, essentially meaning it's a normal occurrence as wood expands and contracts with seasonal humidity fluctuations; these gaps usually close up again when the humidity rises in warmer months.

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Indoor Conditions:

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• To allow the finish to cure properly, maintain a temperature of 60–80°F and humidity levels between 35–55% at all times inside the house.

• A dehumidifier is recommended to maintain stable moisture levels. Dry air can cause hardwood floors to shrink and create visible gaps, especially in the winter. The gaps will usually disappear during the warmer months.

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Area Rugs:

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• The waiting time before placing area rugs depends on the type of finish:

  • Oil-Based Polyurethane: Wait 30–45 days for full curing.

  • Water-Based Polyurethane: Wait at least 30 days.

  • Hardwax Oils/Penetrating Finishes: Usually require 14–21 days, but check specific product recommendations.

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Furniture Protection:

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• Furniture must be equipped with floor protectors. Generic Teflon inserts are often not enough. Look for proper protectors to prevent scratches.

 

Sunlight and Moisture:

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• Hardwood floors are sensitive to direct sunlight and moisture. Protect your floors from fading and discoloration by keeping your curtains or blinds closed. If moving appliances, ensure that all hoses and water supply connections are securely attached to prevent water damage.

 

Cleaning:

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• Regular cleaning is crucial to maintain the beauty of your hardwood floors. Sweep to remove large particles, and clean with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Always dry the floor with a separate dry cloth to avoid water damage.

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Foot Traffic:

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• Identify areas with heavy foot traffic and consider using a rug or runner to protect the floors from wear.

 

 

By following these guidelines, you’ll help maintain the durability and beauty of your floors. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out!

 

 

📞 Call us at 973-703-1808 / 973-274-5575