Hardwood flooring is a beautiful and valuable addition to any home. As such, it’s always a shame to see good wood flooring succumb to the ravages of time. While hardwood and engineered hardwood are known for their durability, it takes a little effort to keep them in their best shape. Fortunately, with a regular cleaning routine and a few precautions, you can preserve your floors and your home’s value for years to come. Protect one of the most beautiful parts of your home with these three tips for making your hardwood flooring last.

Find and Stick To a Cleaning Routine

While wood floors don’t collect dust and dirt the same way carpet does, they do still collect debris over time. A regular cleaning routine is key to keeping your floors in excellent shape. If you allow dirt to linger, it can make your wood floors more susceptible to scratches. Instead, sweep regularly to catch any dirt, dust, pet hair, and other debris. You might also want to invest in a dry dust mop or a vacuum cleaner with a wood floor setting for a more thorough job.

Protect From Dents and Scratches

If your home has hardwood flooring, scratches are likely one of your biggest fears. Fortunately, you can protect your floors from scratches, dents, and other damage with a few simple precautions. Avoid wearing shoes indoors—especially heels—to avoid scuffing the finish. Make sure you add felt pads or gliders to the legs of any furniture that stands on your wood flooring, such as chairs or the dining room table. These will allow you to move furniture around without scraping against the floor and leaving a mark.

Watch Out for Water Damage

One of the most important tips for making your hardwood flooring last is to keep an eye out for water damage. There are many simple steps you can take to protect your wood floors from water damage of all sizes and intensities. Always have a rag or towel on hand to quickly clean up spills before they can seep into the floor. Additionally, stay on top of larger issues like leaks in the plumbing or excess humidity in your home. When you’re ready to take care of any water damage that occurs, you can protect your gorgeous hardwood floors before they sustain any serious damage.