Proper care is the key to keeping your hardwood floors looking their best for years to come. With the right maintenance, a professionally finished floor can last decades without needing a full sand and refinish.

Right After We Finish

• Stay off floors:
 Water-based finish: 12 hours
 Oil-based finish: 24 hours

• Full cure time:
 Water-based: ~7 days
 Oil-based: ~14–30 days

• Furniture may be placed after 48–72 hours (use felt pads on all contact points)

• Do not use rugs or Ram Board:
 Water-based: 4–7 days
 Oil-based: 7–10 days

• If temporary protection is needed, use breathable drop cloths only when necessary and remove them when not in use

Routine Cleaning

• Sweep, vacuum (hard floor setting), or use a microfiber dust mop
• Remove dirt and grit regularly to prevent scratches
• Avoid letting debris sit on the floor, especially in high-traffic areas

Recommended Cleaning Products

• Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner (safe for both oil- and water-based finishes)
• Apply using a microfiber mop with a light mist
• Clean as needed—over-cleaning is unnecessary and can be counterproductive

What to Avoid

• Wet mopping or excessive water
• Steam mops
• Oil soaps (such as Murphy’s Oil Soap)
• Wax, polish, or “restorer” products

These products can leave residue, dull the finish, and interfere with future maintenance coats.

Protecting Your Floors

• Use felt pads on all furniture and check them periodically
• Place rugs at entryways to catch dirt and moisture
• Rotate area rugs periodically to minimize uneven UV exposure and color variation
• Keep pet nails trimmed
• Avoid walking on floors with high heels or cleats

Long-Term Maintenance

• Expect normal wear over time in high-traffic areas
• Plan for a screen and recoat every 3–7 years to avoid a full sand and refinish
• Address wear early—once the finish wears through to bare wood, refinishing becomes more extensive

A Note on Color & Aging

• Oil-based finishes will amber and darken over time
• Water-based finishes remain more consistent in color
• Sunlight will naturally change the appearance of all hardwood floors over time

A Note on Sustainability

Hardwood floors don’t just look good—they store carbon for the life of the wood. When responsibly sourced and properly maintained, they can even offset more carbon than is produced to make them. Extending the life of your floors through proper care helps preserve that benefit over time.