There are several reasons why sometimes hardwood floors get damaged. The reasons explained by a hardwood flooring company include cleaning with inappropriate cleaning products, wearing the wrong shoes inside, using the wrong vacuum attachment, not cleaning spilled liquids, and having pets.
A Hardwood Flooring Company Explaining Damages by Pets
It has been estimated that approximately ninety million families in America own some kind of pet which include dogs, cats, fish, and birds. These pets can cause damage to the house in general, but the owners who have hardwood flooring installed should be extra careful as they should be prepared for the following issues.
Signs of Dents and Scratches
Dents and scratches on hardwood flooring caused by pets’ nails and claws are easily visible. They can sometimes appear as small or can become large grooves or marks if neglected for a long time. Sometimes these scratches and dents can become uneven in depth and width.
Accidental Spills
Accidental spills on hardwood floors can cause significant damage, especially if left unattended. The best flooring company staff explain that spills can happen for several reasons like water containers falling with a jolt, pet urine, and food can penetrate the surface. These can cause discoloration, warping, and even mold growth in the flooring.
Stains from Vomiting and Urinating
Vomit and urine stains are also causes of damage to hardwood floors because they might be difficult to remove and can cause long-term damage. They leave behind unsightly discoloration, and unpleasant odors, and can seep into the wood grain. This will cause swelling and warping.
Pets Eating on the Floor
Sometimes pet owners might observe that pets take their food from the try and start eating on hardwood floors. There is no clear explanation as to why they do this but it can cause damage and stains. Spilled food or water can penetrate the surface and cause discoloration, mold growth, and warping.
Extreme Shedding
Extreme shedding of pets can cause damage to hardwood floors. This shedding can be continuous or seasonal. Pet hair can scratch and dull the surface, and fur can accumulate in crevices, causing blockages and attracting pests.
Dirt all Around the House
Dirt tracked in by pets can cause significant damage to hardwood floors. Sand, gravel, and small rocks can scratch and dull the surface, while moisture in mud can cause warping and mold growth.
Preventive Measures by the Best Flooring Company
One of the preventive measures that pet owners take is cleaning the flooring regularly. But sometimes homeowners only consider this step to be the most important and ignore other points indicated by flooring companies like Vintage Flooring Company which will be discussed below.
Nails are Always Trimmed
Long nails can cause scratches on the hardwood floors. Keeping pet nails trimmed can significantly reduce the risk of scratches and damage to hardwood flooring. Regular trimming also promotes healthy paw and nail care, preventing other potential problems like infections and painful nail splitting.
Select a Strong Wood Species
Choosing hardwood flooring made from a strong and durable wood species can help prevent damage caused by pets. You can contact a hardwood floors company to know which of these wood species including Oak, maple, and hickory are great options.
Avoid Choosing Dark Color Flooring
Homeowners should understand that dark-colored hardwood flooring tends to show scratches and dents more easily than lighter-colored floors. So, clients who own a pet must select lighter colors to better hide imperfections and pet hair.
Consider the Thickness of the Flooring
Choosing thicker hardwood flooring can help prevent damage caused by pets. Thicker floors provide more stability and durability to the surface so that they can withstand scratches and wear over time. Consider a thickness of at least 3/4 inches for optimal durability.
Using Mats and Rugs will be Effective
Pet owners can place mats and rugs in high-traffic areas such as entryways and under their pet’s eating bowls which can help protect hardwood flooring from scratches, spills, and accidents. Mats and rugs also add extra traction and comfort for pets.
Look Out for Pet Excrements
Pet urine and feces can cause serious damage to hardwood flooring if left untreated. Homeowners should be on the lookout for excrement and promptly clean up any accidents to avoid staining or warping the wood.
These are some important tips suggested by a hardwood flooring company for homeowners having pets.
Below are three questions answering queries about hardwood flooring and pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are hardwood floors pet-friendly?
Hardwood floors can be pet-friendly if the right precautions are taken. A well-reputed hardwood flooring company will suggest clients choose a durable wood species, keep their pet nails trimmed, and use mats and rugs can help prevent scratches and damage.
Do hardwood floors absorb pet urine?
Yes, hardwood floors can absorb pet urine if left untreated, causing stains and odors. Prompt cleaning and regular sealing of the floors can help prevent absorption and damage.
What should you not put on a hardwood floor?
To save hardwood floors from damage, avoid using cleaning products that contain ammonia, vinegar, or abrasive chemicals. Do not use steam cleaners or excessive water and avoid dragging heavy furniture across the floors.
