Hardwood floors can add warmth and style to a rental property. However, they require proper care and maintenance to keep them looking their best. As a rental property owner or manager, implementing strategies to clean and protect hardwood floors will help them last longer and improve the overall living experience for tenants.
Regular Upkeep Is Key
A little effort on a consistent basis goes a long way for hardwood floor maintenance. Simple daily and weekly cleaning routines remove dust, dirt and debris that can scratch and dull the floors over time.
Sweeping or vacuuming once or twice per week removes grit that can act like sandpaper. Use a soft bristle attachment and avoid vacuums with beater bars. Wet mopping weekly with a hardwood floor cleaner lifts dirt from the crevices. Always use a clean, damp mop and avoid excess moisture.
Area rugs in high traffic zones are useful for limiting wear and tear in doorways, at sinks and around furniture. Move them occasionally and sweep or vacuum underneath to prevent dirt buildup. Place floor protectors beneath furniture legs and lift items when moving to avoid scratches.
Address Spills and Stains Quickly
Prompt attention to spills and stains is crucial for minimising damage. Immediately soak up any liquid with a clean cloth. For food spills, gently scrape away crusted material before wiping it with a damp cloth. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.
For tougher spots, dip a cloth in a wood floor cleaning solution, wring it out well and blot the area. Avoid applying the cleaner directly as excessive moisture can discolour or warp planks. If stains remain, reapply cleaner to a cloth and lightly buff the spots. Avoid flooding the floor.
Deep Cleaning and Rejuvenation
Although regular light cleaning is ideal, hardwood floors periodically need a deeper refresh. Thorough cleaning to remove built-up grime improves appearance and prepares floors for rejuvenating treatments.
For a deeper clean, add wood floor cleaner to water in a bucket per product instructions. Use a damp mop to wash planks section by section, rinsing the mop frequently. Let the floor air dry completely before allowing foot traffic.
Rejuvenating oils or polishes can restore gloss and protect finishes. Apply a thin, even coat with an applicator pad. Buff the floor with a soft cloth once dry. Avoid wax polishes which can be yellow and show scratches over time.
Address Problem Areas
High traffic zones around doorways and in main living spaces may show wear sooner than other areas. Refinishing problem planks or sections can improve appearance without necessitating full refinishing. Consult a flooring professional for the best processes and products.
For minor scratches and scuffs, a coloured wax stick can help diminish the appearance. Match the colour to your floors, melt the wax into the blemish with a cloth and wipe away excess. While not a perfect fix, it lessens visibility until more extensive repairs can be done.
Major Upgrades and Repairs
For hardwood floors with extensive damage, stains or wear, professional refinishing or replacement may be necessary. Refinishing entails sanding floors down to bare wood and applying protective sealers to create a smooth, durable surface.
Refinishing can typically be done one time between replacements. For floors beyond refinishing, replacing worn planks or sections costs less than full replacement. This maintains the structure while improving appearance and function.
Maintain Floors to Protect Investments
Hardwood floors are major investments that add value and appeal to rental properties. Maintaining their beauty and function not only improves living spaces but also protects assets. With some diligent care and prompt attention when needed, hardwood floors can remain an elegant fixture in rental homes for decades.
Implementing smart maintenance strategies for hardwood floors demonstrates a commitment to quality living spaces. This reflects well on rental businesses and builds a positive reputation among tenants. A little time invested in caring for hardwood floors pays dividends now and in the long run.
Affordable Cleaning and Gardening Services, a leading cleaning company in Parramatta, has very skilled cleaners who are friendly and bonded. Our cleaners can help maintain rental property hardwood floors using proven techniques and quality products.
✓What are the best practices for regular hardwood floor cleaning?
Vacuum or sweep once or twice weekly and mop with a hardwood floor cleaner diluted in water about once a week. Use damp mops and avoid flooding the floor. Place area rugs in high traffic zones.
✓How should I clean up spills?
Immediately blot liquid spills with a clean, dry cloth. Gently scrape away crusted material from food spills before wiping up the residue. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.
✓When does a hardwood floor need deeper cleaning?
If sweeping, vacuuming and mopping fail to remove built-up dirt and grime, a deeper clean is needed. Use wood floor cleaner and water in a bucket with a mop, rinsing frequently. Let floors fully dry before walking on them.
✓What are signs that hardwood floors need repairs?
Extensive scratches, gouges, staining or warped planks indicate the need for repairs. Refinishing can provide a fresh surface coating. For damaged planks, replacement of sections may be best. Consult a flooring professional.
