Dirt and its Damage to Wood Floors

It’s no secret that dirt and dust can make any type of surface look messy, but when it comes to wood, it can be really harmful. Read on to learn some facts about dirt’s impact on hardwood floors, and ways to prevent any harm.

What is dirt and dust even made of?

 Homes are filled with many substances that break down, which turn into dirt and dust particles. The most common sources of dirt are pets, open windows/doors, and shoes. Dirt is transferred to wood floors when it sticks to our shoes or socks.

How can this damage my wood floors?

Discoloration is a way dirt and dust can damage your floors. Traffic in a room can break down the elements that make it stick to the floor. It can then make its way into small cracks of the wood, and cause discoloration which is hard to remove without refinishing.

Dirt and dust can also cause scratches in your floors. If a food comes in contact with a particle on the floor, it can damage the wood. The scratches leave wood vulnerable to water, leading to swelling. It can also lead to discoloration.

How can I prevent this?

Remove your shoes before walking on the wood floors. This prevents any elements from being tracked from the shoe to the floor. Regularly cleaning the entryways, vacuuming carpets, putting a rug by the doors, and keeping your windows/doors closed will also prevent damage.

Dirt and dust will always make its way into your home somehow, so ensuring that you are regularly cleaning around your home is the major way to prevent wood floor damage. If you spill food or water, blot it up as fast as possible before it can seep into the crevices of your wood floor.

Have any lingering questions? Contact the flooring experts at Signature Hardwood Floors. You can call us at 410.415.0755or click here today! You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!