How to Extend the Life of Your Flooring

New flooring generally requires a relatively substantial investment, so ensuring it lasts is a priority for most homeowners.

Whether you opt for carpet, vinyl, timber or hybrid flooring, there are some simple ways to help get the most life out of your fresh floor coverings.

#1 Remove footwear

Taking off your shoes when you enter a home may not be overly common in Australia, but it’s a sure-fire way to reduce the amount of dirt and debris that ends up on your flooring.

Leaving your footwear at the front door is especially important if you have carpet, as it’s more prone to staining; however, it’s also helpful in minimising dirt-induced scratching on timber or hybrid floors.

Ensuring bare feet are clean and dry before stepping inside the home is also smart.

#2 Scuff protection

Footwear and dirt can also contribute to flooring getting scratched and scuffed, often damaging it irreparably, so removing shoes also protects it in this way.
Another way to keep your flooring looking like new is to use rugs or mats in areas that are walked over frequently, such as hallways.
Using protectors or pads on the bottom of the legs of furniture also reduces marking.

#3 Regular cleaning

As dirt can cause floors to become scratched, sweeping with a soft broom or vacuuming regularly must be a priority to keep them in tip top shape.

When it comes to mopping, ensure you’re using the correct gentle cleaning products for your flooring type.

Cleaning up spills immediately is also critical to avoid permanent damage.

#4 Investing in longevity

An annual deep clean done by a professional ensures you bring your flooring back to its best state once a year. It’s an investment that’s well worth it in the long run.

Hiring an expert soon after any sizeable spills is also a good idea.

Similarly, investing in the best flooring you can afford at the outset increases the chances it will last longer.

#5 Sun blocking

Sunlight (and some artificial lighting) can cause flooring to change colour or fade and – at its worst – break down or become brittle. This is often not noticed until furniture is moved or it’s too late to act, so be proactive and minimise sun exposure from the start.

As some flooring has added UV protection to boost its lifespan, if your home is nice and sunny, ask us about those options.

Window coverings like drapes, blinds, indoor shutters, retractable awnings, or UV resistant curtains can also help keep light out.

After more great tips to extend the life of your flooring?

Give the Parrys team a call or drop in and see us at your local store.

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