Maintaining Your Newly Sanded Floors: A Complete Guide
You have invested in beautifully restored timber floors. They look stunning, but how do you keep them that way?
The longevity of your floor sanding job depends entirely on how you treat it. With the right care, a professional polyurethane finish can look brand new for 10+ years. Here is your ultimate maintenance guide.
The Critical First 2 Weeks
Polyurethane takes time to fully cure (harden). Even if it feels dry, it is still soft underneath.
- No Rugs: Do not lay rugs for at least 2 weeks. The wood needs light to age evenly, and the finish needs air to cure.
- Lift, Don't Drag: Lift furniture into place. Never drag it.
- Socks Only: Avoid shoes, especially high heels, for the first few days if possible.
- Dry Clean Only: Do not use water or liquid cleaners for the first 2 weeks. Vacuum or sweep only.
Daily & Weekly Care
1. The Enemy is Grit
Sand and dirt act like sandpaper. Every time you walk on a dirty floor, you are grinding that grit into the finish.
- Mats: Place high-quality doormats at every entrance to trap dirt before it enters the house.
- Vacuum: Use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment (not the beater bar) weekly.
2. Cleaning Spills
Wipe up spills immediately. Water left sitting will eventually find its way through micro-cracks in the finish and stain the wood grey.
3. Mopping
Use a barely damp microfiber mop. The mop should be almost dry. If you can see water droplets on the floor, it's too wet.
Preventing Damage
- Felt Pads: Put felt protectors on the feet of all furniture (chairs, tables, sofas). Check them every 6 months as they wear out / fall off.
- Pet Claws: Keep dog and cat claws trimmed. Big dogs running for the doorbell are a major cause of deep scratches.
- UV Protection: Direct NZ sunlight is harsh. Direct sun will darken Rimu and bleach Oak. Close blinds during the hottest part of the day to prevent uneven fading.
The 'Reglaze' Secret
You don't always need a full sand. If your floor has surface scuffs but hasn't worn through to bare wood, book a Screen and Recoat.
We lightly sand the top layer and apply a fresh coat of poly. It's ¼ of the price of full sanding and makes the floor look brand new. Do this every 5-7 years to delay a full sand indefinitely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a steam mop on my wood floors?
NO. Never use a steam mop on timber floors. The high heat and forced moisture can strip the finish and force water into the joints, causing the wood to swell, cup, and rot.
What is the best cleaner to use?
Use a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for wooden floors (like Bona Floor Cleaner). Avoid methylated spirits, bleach, or harsh detergents as they will dull the finish over time.
How often should I clean my floors?
Dry vacuum or sweep weekly (to remove grit). Damp mop monthly or as needed for spills. Minimizing water is the key to longevity.