Homework: Maintaining wood floors

Homes or apartments with wood floors are a big selling point for buyers. "Wood floors add value because they look rich, inviting, clean and are healthier," says Yosi Sason, president of Style Management Inc., a home contracting and remodeling company in Plainview. "If you've had carpeting for years and are serious about selling, you should consider the investment to speed up the sale."

And if you've had wood floors for years, they must be taken care of to maintain their beauty. Here are nine tips from the professionals to keep your floors shiny and elegant:

1. Use area rugs

Mats or area rugs should be placed at each entryway to collect dirt and grit that might be tracked in. "These tiny particles act like sandpaper and will scratch your floors," says Matthew Bruno, owner of Palermo Flooring Inc. in Patchogue. "With wood floors becoming more popular in kitchens, be sure to have a mat under your sink area where water can splash," because water can damage wood floors. Bruno advises only buying ventilated rubber-backed mats to prevent sliding and scratching and to let the wood breathe.

2. Sweep and mop

Sweep or use a dry mop on a daily basis, says Gary Ridente of GR Wood Flooring in Lake Grove. Be sure to buy a good quality soft-haired broom to prevent scratching. Vacuuming can cause severe scratching, so be sure to turn on the switch meant for flooring, he says.

3. Use the right cleaners

Buy cleaners that are meant for the hardwood floors that you purchased. "Whatever you do," Ridente warns, "don't use any products that contain oil, wax or ammonia. And never use water." All these products will dull the finish and affect the ability to recoat later on. Wood naturally expands. Large amounts of water can cause the wood to swell and cup, and may cause cracks or splinters, he explains.

4. How to clean

For scuff or heel marks, spray the hardwood floor cleaner on a cloth and lightly rub the stained area, Sason says. Sticky spots can be cleaned with a damp towel or sponge. Again, always use a cleaning product recommended by the retailer.

5. Recoating

A screening and recoating process should be performed every three to five years to rejuvenate and prolong the life of the floors, Bruno advises. "Although it's more expensive, be sure to purchase a water-based polyurethane, not an oil based one," Bruno says. The odor is less intense, takes less time to dissipate (three days versus one week), and dries faster (two to four hours instead of eight to 12), he explains.

6. When sanding is needed

Sanding and refinishing is a more extensive process that all the professionals agree can be avoided if you maintain floors regularly. If the damage is severe, the floor may need to be sanded down to the raw wood, stained or sealed, and then three coats of polyurethane applied, Ridente says. Get a few opinions to see if screening and recoating could be sufficient. If not, then proceed with sanding and refinishing. If damage is only in a small area, you may want to see if replacement boards are available to minimize your expense.

7. Don't scuffle around

Place protectors on furniture and table legs to guard the floor against damage, Sason says. And be sure to take extra care when moving heavy objects to avoid scuffing.

8. Handling pets

Trim pets' nails or claws regularly. If you don't, a cat or dog can scratch and damage flooring over time, Sason says.

9. Pricing 

To screen and recoat, the price range is $1.25 to $1.50 per square foot. To sand, seal and apply polyurethane, prices range from $1.75 to $3.50 per square foot. Shop around and make sure that you hire a licensed contractor.