Solid wood winter care advice
Homeowners with solid wood floors have been warned to step up the hardwood maintenance and care routine for their floor now that winter has arrived.
The unseasonably warm weather we enjoyed is now nothing more than a dim a distant memory with cold temperatures, wind, rain and dark nights here to stay.
This means that there are a few steps which should be taken at this time of year to prevent damage which can easily be avoided, even at this time of year.
Anyone with a hardwood floor will know the importance of maintaining the correct humidity levels to stop the timber from expanding or contracting.
During the winter it is quite common for dramatic changes in the atmosphere as it gets increasingly cold before heating is turned up high, which creates huge fluctuations.
To protect your wood floor make sure you keep an eye on humidity levels and try not to allow extreme atmosphere changes.
There is also a growing possibility of snow or ice which results in road gritting, however the salt used on roads is then walked in to homes and will cause scratches and other damage to the surface.
A sturdy welcome mat outside the door will limit the damage, although it is best to ask visitors to remove their shoes before entering.
