Hardwood floors bring warmth, character, and lasting value to your home—but they need a little care to stay looking their best. If you’ve recently installed hardwood flooring or are thinking about making the switch, a few simple habits can go a long way in protecting your investment.
At Flooring Direct of KC, we’ve helped hundreds of Kansas City homeowners choose and maintain hardwood floors that match their lifestyle and space. Here’s what we recommend to keep yours in top shape—season after season.
Mind the Moisture
Kansas City weather can be unpredictable, and those shifts in humidity can impact your hardwood. Wood expands in humid summer months and contracts in dry winter air, which may lead to minor gapping or cupping. While this is normal, it’s still important to keep your home’s humidity between 35–55%.
A whole-home humidifier in the winter (and a dehumidifier in the summer if needed) can help maintain a more stable environment for your floors.
Clean Smarter, Not Harder
Everyday dust and debris can act like sandpaper under your feet, wearing down the finish. To keep your floors clean:
- Use a microfiber mop or vacuum with a hardwood-safe attachment 2–3 times a week.
- Avoid steam mops and excess water—wood and moisture don’t mix.
- Choose pH-neutral wood floor cleaners, and always follow your flooring manufacturer’s guidelines.
If you’re ever unsure, our team is happy to recommend products that work well with the hardwood flooring we install.
Protect High-Traffic Areas
Areas like entryways, hallways, and kitchens tend to see the most foot traffic. Consider:
- Placing rugs or mats in these spots (just avoid rubber-backed ones, which can trap moisture).
- Using furniture pads on chairs and tables to prevent scuffs or gouges.
- Taking off shoes indoors—grit from outside can wear down your floor’s finish faster than you’d think.
Small habits like these add up, especially over the lifespan of your hardwood floors.
Don’t Skip Regular Maintenance
Even the most durable finishes will wear over time. Depending on the type of wood and finish, your floors may eventually need a screen and recoat or full sanding and refinishing.
The good news? With proper care, you may not need refinishing for 10–15 years or more. Keep an eye out for dull areas, deep scratches, or color fading—these are signs it might be time for professional care.
Thinking of Upgrading to Hardwood?
If you’re planning a home project in Kansas City or anywhere in the metro, hardwood is a timeless choice. It suits a variety of design styles, adds resale value, and creates a clean, polished look that works from living rooms to bedrooms. At Flooring Direct of KC, we’re here to help you choose the right species, color, and finish for your home—then install it with the precision and care you deserve.
Start Your Flooring Project with Confidence
Ready to upgrade or protect your hardwood floors? Explore our hardwood flooring options or request an estimate to embark on your flooring journey with Flooring Direct of KC. We are serving you in Kansas City, MO, Kansas City, KS, Olathe, Overland Park, Shawnee, Liberty, Parkville, Lees Summit and all of the Kansas City Metro.