PARQUET FLOOR MAINTENANCE

and restoration of the appearance of varnished or oil-treated parquet floors

Keeping your floors attractive year after year is not difficult, but it should not be neglected. Dust and dirt can be removed with a vacuum cleaner, but the floor needs more thorough cleaning from time to time. Any soap-based cleaning agent for wooden floors sold on the market can be used. Parquet floors will age with grace if they are cared for properly. The cleaning kit should include the right mop and cleaning product, ideally intended specifically for wooden floors.

The protection and lifespan of both new and older parquetry can also be enhanced by applying a layer of a refinishing product, even to scratched and soapy surfaces. The parquet will get a fresh look and permanent protection against wear. Parquet floors installed in homes do fine with being treated once or twice a year; however, parquet floors exposed to heavy traffic need to be treated once a month or even more often.

tips and recommendations

Use mats

The worst things for wooden parquetry include sand, grit, and other dirt with a sandpaper-like effect.
Use high-quality mats at all entrances and shake them out frequently.

Do not use aggressive cleaning agents

Use cleaning products intended specifically for wooden floors.
Avoid the use of aggressive household cleaning agents.

Watch out for water

When cleaning, use a well-wrung rag.
Do not leave water on the parquet floor.

Use a polish

Polish improves the abrasion resistance of the floor.
Apply the polish in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Parquet floor maintenance

Parquet floors sealed with varnish are sanitary and easy to clean and maintain. However, the sealing is subject to natural wear, depending on the frequency and level of exposure, and the parquet floor must therefore be maintained regularly. Dirt and sand have a sandpaper-like effect and must therefore be removed from the varnished areas.

It is advisable to attach felt pads on chair legs. Office chairs must be fitted with castor wheels designed for hardwood floors.

The climatic conditions in the room are crucial for the cohesion and appearance of wooden floors. Relative air humidity that is too high results in swelling and deformation. Relative humidity that is too low results in the formation of gaps. The optimal conditions for maintaining a great appearance of the floor, as well as for the well-being of the people in the room, mean a temperature of 18–22 ^°C and relative humidity of 55–60%.

Cleaning

First, remove the dust from the floor using a completely dry method. Sweeping is not advisable as it is likely to stir up the dust rather than remove it. So far, a dry duster or vacuum cleaner appear to work best. Then wet-wipe the floor. The mop or rag must only be damp. It must not drip water. It is not advisable to add aggressive household products to the water. It is advisable to use, for example, soft soap as it has a very good cleaning effect, but plain water is usually enough.

removing stains

removing stains from wooden floors

Remove stains using a damp cloth soaked in warm water or a soapy solution. If the stains are stronger (e.g. from asphalt, shoes, or oil), you can use rubbing alcohol or diluted cleaning benzine with care. Use ice spray or bagged ice cubes to remove candle wax stains or dried chewing gum. If the stains cannot be removed or if your parquet floor has scratch marks, you can also simply retouch your floor with sandpaper. After sanding, apply a varnish or oil that is similar to that used for the first finish.