Summer-Proof Your Hardwood Floors: Smart Tips for Northland Homes
Nothing makes a home feel more grounded and inviting than beautiful hardwood floors. If you’ve invested in timber flooring, summer is the perfect time to show it a little care, especially here in Northland, where sand, sun, and daily foot traffic can do a number on your floors if left unchecked.
At MeasureUp Flooring, we supply and install stunning hardwood flooring across Whangarei and surrounding communities, and we know how to help homeowners keep their floors looking their best, year after year.
Here are our top summer maintenance tips to protect and preserve your hardwood floors.
Put Down Protective Mats (Especially at Entry Points)
Sand and small pebbles are your floor’s worst enemy. Placing doormats both outside and inside your entryways helps trap grit before it gets tracked through the house. For homes near the beach, rinse your feet or shoes before walking inside—even tiny grains of sand can cause scratches over time.
Use Felt Pads Under Furniture Legs
Summertime often means rearranging furniture for gatherings, opening up space, or adding fans. Before sliding anything across your floor, make sure it has felt pads or protective glides. They prevent scuff marks and dents from sudden movement or daily shifting.
Stick to Dry or Damp Mopping
Skip the wet mops or steamers, which can damage the finish or seep moisture into joints. Instead, sweep daily or use a microfiber dust mop. For deeper cleaning, use a slightly damp cloth or a hardwood-specific cleaning solution and mop.
Rotate Rugs and Rearrange Furniture
UV rays can fade or darken sections of hardwood, depending on wood type and finish. Rotating rugs and shifting furniture helps reduce uneven fading and keep your floors aging gracefully. If your space gets lots of direct sun, consider using sheer curtains or blinds during peak daylight hours.
Keep Pet Nails Trimmed
Dogs and cats may love lounging on cool wood floors in summer, but their nails can leave behind scratches and marks, especially during play. Regular trimming and keeping a rug in high-traffic pet areas can protect your surface from everyday wear.
Avoid Dragging Beach Gear or Coolers
It’s tempting to slide heavy coolers, beach bags, or sports gear across the floor, but even soft bottoms can catch grit underneath. Always lift and carry items—or lay down a towel or mat for staging gear during summer outings.
Bonus Tip: Use the Right Floor Cleaner
Different wood species and finishes require different products. Using a generic cleaner might dull the shine or leave residue. If you’re not sure what’s safe, reach out—we’re always happy to recommend the right care products for the hardwood flooring we install.
Protect Your Investment Year-Round
Summer fun doesn’t have to come at the expense of your timber flooring. With just a few mindful habits, you can enjoy your space while keeping your hardwood floors in excellent condition.
Following these simple steps will help extend the life and beauty of your floors for years to come. Thinking about upgrading or replacing your floors with something timeless and low-maintenance? Contact us today for a free measure and quote—we’re your local hardwood flooring experts in Whangarei and Northland.
