Flooring

Your flooring will last longer with routine maintenance. The following tips will help you care for the different types of flooring material in your new home.

Carpeting
Frequent vacuuming is the key to maintaining your carpeting. On canister-type vacuums, use a fixed brush attachment. If your vacuum has a beater-type attachment, the beater should barely touch the top of the carpet fibers.

It is normal for your new carpet to shed loose fibers for quite some time. Frequent vacuuming will take care of the problem.

If a tuft of carpet appears which is longer than the surrounding carpet, don't pull it out. Instead, trim it flush with the rest of the surface.

Stain removal is easier when it's done promptly. Test any cleaning product on a section of carpet that isn't easily seen, such as in a closet.

To add years to the life of your carpets, have them professionally cleaned every six months.

Ceramic Tile
Grit and fine particles will scratch or dull your tile floor. Remove them with frequent sweeping, vacuuming or damp mopping. When damp mopping, use clean water and wring the mop head thoroughly to prevent water spotting. A mild nonabrasive detergent can be used, but rinse well to avoid leaving a dulling film. Do not use vinegar or other acid-based cleaners; this will cause premature deterioration of grout.

Furniture with metal feet or casters will quickly scratch and chip even the hardest tile. Use furniture coasters and rubber feet to protect your floors.

Grout between tiles can crack and separate, especially near baseboards. Replace the grout as needed to prevent water damage to subflooring.

Hardwood
Clean your hardwood flooring as frequently as you would carpets, following the manufacturer's recommendations. Sweep and clean with a soft, dry mop or cloth. Never use water, water-based cleaners, bleach or one-step floor cleaners on hardwood.

Flooding a wood floor with water will cause staining and warping. Wipe up liquid spills quickly.

To prevent scratches, gouges and dents, never drag heavy furniture or appliances across a hardwood floor, and avoid walking on them with high-heeled shoes.

Waxing and buffing is best done by a professional, following the manufacturer's instructions.

To remove small burns, sand lightly, apply a commercial wood stain that matches your finish and wax lightly after it dries. For large burns, consult a flooring professional.

Vinyl Flooring
Heavy appliances, dropped tools, furniture legs, high-heeled shoes and rough use can all permanently damage soft vinyl flooring. Small cuts can be repaired with seam sealer.

Abrasive cleansers will permanently dull vinyl finishes. Full-strength bleach will etch into and destroy the surface. Use warm water and cleaning products made specifically for vinyl flooring.

Rubber-backed rugs will discolor vinyl floors.

Plastic Laminate Flooring
Clean regularly with a vacuum and damp mop. For thorough cleaning, use a soap-free cleaner designed for laminate floors. Grease and most liquid spills can be cleaned up with warm water and mild detergent. Use a soft cloth moistened with mineral spirits or nail polish remover on crayon, asphalt, shoe polish, paint and nail polish. Let wax and chewing gum harden, then scrape gently with a dull, blunt blade such as a putty knife.

Never wax, sand, lacquer or use scouring powder, steel wool or abrasives on laminate flooring.