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Solid and Engineered Hardwood Care Tips

  • Make sure you keep your humidity between 35-55% at all times. Failing to do so can cause the wood to shrink and gaps to appear over time. This applies both to solid and engineered hardwood.

  • Make sure you keep ambient temperature (15 C- 25 C) throughout your house (even when on vacation or absent for longer periods of time).

  • Regularly sweep and vacuum the floor (preferably with hard floor specialized vacuums to prevent scratches).

  • DO NOT use a steam cleaner or a wet mop to clean your hardwood. Use a slightly damp mop or cloth (never wet) as water can flow down between slats, penetrate the wood and stain it black. Also, water and/or steam can lift the wood coating causing it to peel away.

  • Never use wax, oil-based detergent or any general purpose household cleaner. These can dull or damage the finish, leaving a greasy film that makes your hardwood floor slippery and more difficult to clean properly. Use only proper hardwood cleaners and make sure not to pour the cleaner directly onto your floor. Use a microfiber or a very soft mop or cloth to avoid any scratches.

  • Never allow a liquid spills to remain on your hardwood floor. Clean them up right away.

  • Install doormats at all entrances to avoid abrasive dirt and moisture to damage your hardwood. Vacuum or shake out the mats regularly.

  • Use felt protectors under all furniture to protect your hardwood from scratches. Do not use plastic coasters.

  • The use of mats and/or area rugs around sinks and/or high traffic areas is strongly recommended.

  • Wood ages naturally. The familiar colors of older floors are due largely to exposure to sunlight over time. Some woods including Cherry, Madrone, Douglas Fir and Pine will darken somewhat as they age. We suggest moving area rugs regularly in the first weeks after installation to allow even sunlight exposure to the wood.

  • Sharp objects and high heels can permanently damage and scratch your hardwood. Encourage your family and visitors to remove shoes.

  • Do not move refrigerators or any other heavy objects without proper floor protection.

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Carpet Care Tips

  • Make sure you vacuum your carpet regularly but avoid using very rough brush roll vacuums and make sure your vacuum is approved by your carpet manufacturer to avoid nullifying your warranty. Please check Carpet and Rug Institute of America for a list of approved vacuums per manufacturer.

  • For liquid spills, make sure you treat the area right away. If you need a spot removal solvent please consult the Carpet and Rug Institute of America for a list of approved and appropriate solvents. Always apply a few drops of the cleaner on a clean white cloth and try a remote and small area of the carpet first before you apply to your stained area. If you notice discoloration, consult a professional carpet cleaner instead.

  • For food spills, make sure you remove the solid material before attempting to deal with the rest of the stain. Add water and blot, using detergent very sparingly and use your vacuum’s highest suction function, vacuuming back and forth and adding more water to the stain as needed, until it goes away.

  • If stains remain after cleaning, add a few drops of 3% hydrogen peroxide and let stand for one hour. Blot and repeat until completely clean.

  • Consider professional cleaning every 12-18 months. This can extend the longevity of your carpet.

  • Don’t pull on sprouts or snag. Use a pair of scissors to gently clip them.

  • For soft carpet, make sure you keep your vacuum at the highest setting where appropriate and avoid vacuums with a very concentrated and sealed suction.

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Tile Floor Care Tips

  • Make sure you regularly sweep or vacuum your tile floor to remove the large debris.

  • Mop with a mix of warm water and a cup of white vinegar for an effective, odor eliminating cleaner.

  • Use only mild cleaning products especially taking into consideration your grout. DO NOT use cleaners containing acids, wax, oil or ammonia.

  • Do not use harsh cleaning tools such as steel wool, scouring pads or metal.

  • The best way to keep your grout clean for an extended period of time, is to have it sealed right after installation for all cement based grouts and all natural stones. This will keep stains, dirt and water from being able to penetrate the protective barrier. Experts recommended sealing your grout twice a year.

  • The same as the above mentioned can be taken into account for the care of wall tiles.

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