As the year winds down and the holiday hustle begins to fade, it’s the perfect time to prepare your home for a fresh start. Floors, often the unsung heroes of your home, endure a lot throughout the year. From heavy foot traffic to seasonal changes, they deserve some TLC. Follow this flooring maintenance checklist to ensure your floors are ready to shine in the New Year.
1. Deep Clean Your Floors
Start by giving all your floors a thorough cleaning:
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Hardwood: Sweep or vacuum to remove dust, then mop with a wood-safe cleaner. Avoid excessive water to prevent damage. We recommend this hardwood cleaner from Bona.
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Carpet: Vacuum thoroughly and consider a professional steam cleaning for high-traffic areas.
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Tile and Grout: Use a mild cleaner to scrub tiles and apply a specialized grout cleaner to restore brightness. We recommend this tile cleaner from Bona.
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Vinyl and Laminate: Sweep and mop with a cleaner designed for these materials to avoid streaks or damage. We recommend this vinyl and laminate cleaner from Bona.
2. Protect Against Winter Wear and Tear
Winter weather can be tough on floors. Prevent damage with these tips:
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Place durable mats at entryways to catch dirt, moisture, and salt before it reaches your floors.
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Use felt pads on furniture legs to prevent scratches on hardwood or tile.
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Keep a small area rug near doors to protect floors from muddy boots or dripping umbrellas.
3. Inspect for Damage
Carefully inspect your floors for signs of wear and tear:
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Hardwood: Look for scratches, dents, or fading and consider refinishing if needed.
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Tile: Check for cracks or loose tiles and repair as necessary.
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Carpet: Look for stains or fraying and address issues promptly to prevent further damage.
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Laminate and Vinyl: Examine seams and edges for signs of peeling or lifting.
4. Reseal and Refinish When Needed
To keep floors looking their best, consider resealing or refinishing:
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Hardwood floors may benefit from a fresh coat of finish every few years to protect against scratches and moisture. A great product to refinish your floors is Bona's Hardwood Floor Polish High Gloss.
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Sealing grout lines on tile floors can prevent discoloration and make cleaning easier.
5. Update Floor Accessories
Don’t forget the accessories that enhance your floors:
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Replace worn-out rugs or mats with stylish, functional options.
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Invest in a high-quality floor cleaner or mop for easier maintenance throughout the year.
6. Plan for Future Upgrades
Thinking about updating your flooring in the New Year? Now is the time to research trends and materials:
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Consider durable and stylish options like luxury vinyl, eco-friendly bamboo, or timeless hardwood.
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Visit your local flooring showroom (Floor Authority 😉) to explore samples and get expert advice.
Start the New Year with Floors You Love
Taking care of your floors now will save you time and money down the road, ensuring they stay beautiful and durable for years to come. Whether it’s a quick touch-up or a full-floor overhaul, a little effort goes a long way.Need professional advice or materials to kickstart your flooring journey? Visit Floor Authority in Myrtle Beach to explore our wide range of options. Let us help you create the perfect foundation for a beautiful 2025!