As the summer season kicks into full swing across St. Louis, Fenton, Ballwin, Wildwood, and surrounding communities, your hardwood floors could use a little extra care. Whether you recently installed hardwood or you’ve enjoyed your floors for years, a few easy habits can help protect your investment and keep that natural wood beauty shining all season long.
Here at Kelly’s Flooring, we know what it takes to keep hardwood floors performing their best in Missouri homes, without overcomplicating your routine.
Sweep or Vacuum Frequently
Summer brings more than just sunshine; it also brings in dirt, sand, and small debris. Those tiny particles act like sandpaper under your shoes and can dull your finish faster than you’d think.
Our tip: Use a microfiber dust mop or vacuum with a hardwood floor setting several times a week to prevent buildup. It’s a small task that goes a long way in preserving your floor’s surface.
Skip Wet Mops and Use a Damp Cloth Instead
Water and wood aren’t friends. While it might be tempting to give your floors a good mop during your summer cleaning spree, avoid soaking them.
Instead, spot clean using a damp (not wet) cloth and a wood floor-safe cleaner. If you’re unsure what product to use, ask our team for recommendations—we’ll point you to options that work with your floor’s finish and won’t cause damage over time.
Protect High-Traffic Zones
Bare feet, flip-flops, and extra summer foot traffic can speed up wear, especially in entryways, kitchens, and around sliding doors.
Try this:
- Add rugs or runners in high-use areas
- Use floor protectors under furniture
- Keep pet nails trimmed to reduce scratches
These little protective steps can save you from costly refinishing work down the road.
Watch for Signs You Might Need Recoating
If your floor has lost its sheen or shows light scuffing, it may be time for a professional recoat. This simple, one-day process replaces the top polyurethane layer to restore shine and protect the wood underneath.
Not sure if your floors need a full refinish or just a recoat? Do this quick test: dampen a section with a washcloth—if it shines, a recoat may be all you need. If the area looks worse, it’s probably time for a full refinish.
Clean Up Spills Immediately
From drippy popsicles to water tracked in from the pool, summer spills happen. The key is to catch them quickly.
Even sealed hardwood floors can suffer from prolonged moisture contact, especially around edges or seams. Keep a soft towel handy to tackle spills right away—and remind kids or guests to do the same.
Your Hardwood Floors Deserve to Shine
Following these quick summer tips helps extend the life of your hardwood floors and keeps them looking sharp all season long. Whether you’re maintaining your current flooring or considering an upgrade, Kelly’s Flooring is your trusted local partner in hardwood floor care.
Serving St. Louis, Fenton, Ballwin, Wildwood, and nearby areas, our expert team is ready to help you make smart flooring decisions and keep your home looking its best.
Thinking about new hardwood floors or refinishing your existing ones? Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about our installation and refinishing.
