The key to protecting any floor is protection and prevention - but with wood floors this is especially important. Although hard wood is pretty durable it is also prone to scratching and staining, so this must be avoided at all costs. If a floor becomes marked or scratched, a wood floor cleaning specialist will need to be called to sand, clean, polish and seal the floor - so preventative action must be taken.
The first steps involve professional installation and sealing. Assuming the floor has been correctly installed; the application of a sealant adds a protective layer and will effectively waterproof the floor - protecting it against spillages. You can check if you floor has a sealant applied by dropping a couple of drops of water on the floor. If the drops 'float' on the surface then you probably have a sealant applied. If not you should make the application of one a priority - a floor cleaning specialist will be able to recommend one for you.
Another important step is to avoid surface scratching. Scratching can remove any sealant that may have been applied, exposing the surface, but can also damage the wood itself. This will allow staining and bacteria to build up over time and this can stain and mark the wood. To avoid surface scratching try to remove any grit or dirt from the surface of the floor with regular sweeping. If the floor is swept, cleaning with a slightly damp mop should be sufficient but make sure you clean up spillages as soon as they occur.
Over time it is possible that your floor may become marked and dulled and cleaning ceases to be effective. It is possible that this is simply a surface build-up of grime or staining which can be difficult to shift. It is also possible that the floor itself (the actual wood) has become marked and that will require professional attention. In either case a wood floor cleaning specialist will be able to deal with this and give you the advice you need - Steven J Rosen
