Hardwood Floors Oct/Nov 2019

RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE

DAILY sweep or dust mop

WEEKLY MONTHLY EVERY 3-5 YEARS

EVERY FEW DECADES sand and refinish

vacuum using the bare floor setting

clean with recommended wood floor cleaner

maintenance coat (new coat of finish)

floor from being recoated, cause damage to the finish, and possibly damage the wood.” Providing homeowners with accurate information about how to properly care for their wood floors is one of the reasons the NWFA’s “Real Wood. Real Life.” campaign was developed. Resources are available to help members share tips on maintenance, including the Homeowner’s Handbook to Real Wood Floors , digital ads, trade, and home show signage, social media posts, key messages, and FAQs. All of these materials are part of the campaign’s marketing toolkit and may be downloaded for free by visiting nwfa.org/ consumer-outreach.aspx . The “Care for Your Floor” section of WoodFloors.Org walks readers through how easy it is to care for wood floors, providing details on how to follow a simple cleaning and maintenance routine. It also provides details on ways to prevent everyday wear and tear, moisture management, and how to know when it might be time for a maintenance coat or complete sand and refinish. The “Real Wood. Real Life.” campaign materials and WoodFloors.Org also help homeowners with guidance on how to choose the right wood floor and why they should use a professional for the job, all while showcasing the characteristics and benefits of real wood floors. The NWFA is asking its members to continue spreading the word. You

with a consumer as they are making a decision about their flooring and to ultimately provide them with a source for where to buy the correct cleaning products. “We always say only to use professional products recommended by your flooring contractor, flooring manufacturer, or finish manufacturer,” said Miller. “Don’t use steam mops and never use anything from the store that claims to polish, restore luster, or add shine. Using the wrong type of cleaning product could prevent the

Which of the following is the best way to clean wood floors?

24% Sweeping

19% Soap or oil-based cleaner

12%Water or vinegar

8% Steam cleaning

6%Wax

According to NWFA 2017 Consumer Research Study

the magazine of the national wood flooring association

81