Hardwood Floor Maintenance Tips for Houston Homes | Flooring Depot

Hardwood Floor Maintenance Tips Every Houston Homeowner Should Know

There’s something undeniably warm and timeless about hardwood flooring. It’s one of the reasons so many Houston homeowners choose it when updating their homes. But once it’s installed, how do you keep it looking as clean and polished as the day it was finished?

Whether you’ve recently installed hardwood or are considering it for your next project, knowing how to properly care for it can make a huge difference in how long it lasts—and how great it looks over time.

Avoid Moisture Buildup in Houston’s Humid Climate

Houston’s humidity can be tough on hardwood. One of the most important rules is to never let water sit on your floors. Even small spills can cause the wood to swell, warp, or discolor. Wipe up spills immediately, use mats at entrances, and avoid wet mops. Instead, use a microfiber mop or a damp (not soaking) cloth for cleaning.

Consider a dehumidifier during especially muggy months to help control indoor moisture levels. This small step can help prevent cupping or gapping between your planks.

Skip the Harsh Cleaners

It’s tempting to grab whatever multi-surface spray you have under the sink, but many of those cleaners contain chemicals that can strip your hardwood’s finish. Stick with pH-neutral products designed specifically for wood floors. Flooring Depot recommends using the cleaning solutions suggested by your flooring manufacturer—or feel free to ask our team for trusted options we’ve tested in Houston homes.

Use the Right Tools

Vacuuming is a great way to keep dirt and debris from scratching the surface, but be sure to use a vacuum with a hardwood floor setting or a soft brush attachment. Avoid beater bars—they can be too aggressive on wood surfaces.

Protect high-traffic areas with rugs or runners, and add felt pads to the bottom of furniture legs to prevent dents and scuffs. Over time, these simple habits can preserve your floor’s smooth finish and natural grain patterns.

Watch for Signs It’s Time to Refinish

Hardwood doesn’t just wear out overnight—it shows signs gradually. If you notice dull spots, deep scratches, or gray areas where the finish has worn off, it may be time to consider refinishing. One of the benefits of solid hardwood is that it can be sanded and refinished several times, extending its life by decades.

Flooring Depot offers guidance on whether your flooring is a good candidate for refinishing or replacement. We’re happy to help you weigh your options.

Keep Up with a Seasonal Routine

Houston’s temperature swings—though mild compared to other regions—can still affect your floors. Try to maintain consistent indoor temperatures, and consider setting a seasonal routine: deep clean in the spring, inspect for wear in the fall, and lightly clean throughout the year.

Thinking About New Hardwood Floors? We Can Help

At Flooring Depot, we take pride in helping Houston-area homeowners choose the right flooring and maintain it for years to come. Explore our hardwood flooring options, visit our showroom, or schedule a consultation with one of our flooring experts. One of our specialists is ready to see how we can assist you in making your flooring dreams come true.