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Hardwood Floor Care, Made Simple

 

Beautiful hardwood floors are designed to last for generations. Knowing how to care for them, and understanding how real wood naturally behaves and can help protect your investment for years to come.

Find quick answers, care tips and expert advice from the Renaissance team below.

Water Is The Enemy

Clean spills immediately and avoid excessive moisture.

Furniture Protection

Always use felt protectors.

Floor Refreshing

Most polyurethane finishes may require recoating every 2–10 years depending on wear.

Humidity Matters

Maintain 35%–45% indoor humidity and a consistent

temperature year-round, even when you’re away from home.

Proper climate control is your responsibility and is essential

for your hardwood floors to perform as intended.

DAILY DO’S

✓ Vacuum, sweep or dust mop regularly
✓ Clean spills immediately
✓ Use felt pads on furniture
✓ Place mats at exterior doors
✓ Use area rugs in high-traffic spaces
✓ Use Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner
✓ Maintain indoor humidity between 35%–45% year-round

AVOID

✕ Steam mops
✕ Excessive water
✕ Wax-based household cleaners
✕ Rubber-backed rugs
✕ Dragging furniture
✕ High heels where possible
✕ Vinegar

Understanding Your Hardwood Floors

 

Wondering if something you’re seeing is normal? Find answers to common hardwood flooring questions below.

Why are there gaps between my floorboards?

Hardwood flooring naturally expands and contracts as humidity levels change throughout the year. During drier months, small gaps may appear between boards as the wood loses moisture and contracts. This is a normal characteristic of real hardwood flooring and, in most cases, the gaps will reduce as humidity levels return.

Why are the edges of my hardwood floorboards raised?

This is known as cupping and occurs when hardwood absorbs excess moisture, causing the edges of the boards to rise slightly. Temporary cupping can occur during periods of high humidity and often improves as moisture levels stabilise. Maintaining consistent indoor humidity helps minimise seasonal movement.

Why does my hardwood floor make noise?

Minor creaks and squeaks can occur as hardwood expands and contracts with seasonal temperature and humidity changes. These sounds are a normal characteristic of real wood flooring and often become less noticeable as the floor acclimates to its environment.

Can pets damage hardwood floors?

Hardwood floors and pets can work beautifully together; however, claws can cause surface scratches over time. Keeping nails trimmed and using rugs in high-traffic areas can help protect your hardwood floors and preserve the finish.

Why does my hardwood floor look dull?

Over time, daily foot traffic, dust and residue can reduce the appearance of your floor’s finish. Regular cleaning using approved hardwood floor products will help maintain its natural beauty. For heavily worn floors, Renaissance can advise whether recoating or refinishing may be beneficial.

Why are there small scratches?

Light scratches and signs of wear are a normal part of owning genuine hardwood flooring. Using rugs in high-traffic areas, placing felt pads under furniture and keeping dirt and grit off the floor will help protect the finish and minimise wear over time.

Can dents be repaired?

Wood is a natural material and can dent if heavy objects are dropped or furniture is dragged across the surface. Minor dents often become part of the character of a hardwood floor, while more significant damage may be repairable depending on the location and severity. If you’re unsure, we’re always happy to help.

Is it normal for my floor color to change?

Yes. Natural hardwood develops character and patina as it is exposed to sunlight and everyday living. This gradual color change is a normal part of the aging process and one of the qualities that makes real hardwood flooring unique.

Your Warranty & Peace of Mind

 

Quality hardwood flooring should be built to last. Learn more about Renaissance’s warranty coverage and what you can expect after your project is complete.

Warranty Coverage

1-Year Finish Warranty
Protection against eligible defects related to the floor finish.

2-Year Material & Workmanship Warranty
Coverage for eligible installation workmanship and material defects.

Warranty Exclusions

× Water leaks, flooding or appliance failures
× Excessive moisture or humidity
× Acts of nature or environmental conditions
× Surface scratching from normal use
× Damage caused by improper cleaning products
× Taping directly to finished floors
× Moving furniture or fixtures without protection
× Damage caused by pets, furniture or heavy impacts

When to Contact Renaissance

Not sure if something you’re seeing is normal? We’re here to help.

Contact our team if you have questions about seasonal gaps, cupping or movement, cleaning and maintenance, scratches or dents, moisture concerns, or warranty coverage.

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Tulsa 918-298-4477 | Oklahoma City 405-431-9393