Parquetry flooring brings warmth and personality to any room. Whether it’s the timeless appeal of herringbone or the bold look of chevron, parquet floors instantly uplift a space. But to keep them looking their best, they need a little attention. Luckily, maintaining parquet flooring isn’t complicated—it’s all about the right approach.
With a few simple steps, you can protect your parquet floors from everyday wear and tear and make sure they last for years. Let’s dive into some easy ways to keep your floors looking stunning and well-maintained.
Why parquet flooring needs special care
- Unique design: Parquet is made of small timber blocks arranged in patterns like herringbone or chevron.
- More vulnerable to wear: The intricate design means that scratches, dirt, and moisture can settle into the seams more easily than on regular flat boards.
- Noticeable damage: Because of the detailed layout, any scratches or damage stand out more.
- Extra attention needed: Regular maintenance and a bit of care will help keep your parquet looking fresh for years.
Simple maintenance tips to keep your parquet floors beautiful
Parquet floors may look high-maintenance, but with a few simple habits, you can keep them looking stunning without too much effort.
1. Sweep regularly
Dirt and dust are the biggest culprits when it comes to scratches. A quick sweep a few times a week will prevent debris from building up and dulling the surface.
2. Vacuum weekly
Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to pick up the finer dirt particles that sweeping might miss. Avoid vacuums with beater bars, as they can damage the wood.
3. Damp mop (sparingly!)
Parquet floors don’t like moisture, so if you need to mop, use a damp (not wet) mop and make sure it’s wrung out well. Use a timber-friendly cleaner for the best results.
4. Wipe up spills immediately
Spills are bound to happen, but don’t let liquids sit. Wipe them up right away to avoid water seeping into the wood and causing damage.
How to prevent damage to your parquet floors
Even though parquet floors are built to last, a little extra care can help prevent unnecessary damage and keep them looking as good as new.
By following these simple steps, you’ll avoid the most common damage and keep your parquet floors looking fresh for longer.
Use felt pads under furniture
Heavy furniture can leave scratches or dents, especially when moved around. Stick felt pads under furniture legs to protect the wood and make it easier to slide pieces without causing damage.
Place down rugs in high-traffic areas
Place rugs or runners in areas that get a lot of foot traffic, like entryways or hallways, to reduce wear and tear. Mats by the door are also great for keeping out dirt and grit that can scratch your floors.
Project: Villa Casa
Watch the shoes
High heels and shoes with hard soles can leave scuffs or even dent the parquet. Encourage family and guests to take their shoes off or wear soft slippers / soft-soled shoes indoors to protect the floor.
Avoid dragging heavy items
At the end of the day, it’s still wood. Dragging heavy furniture or objects across your parquet will likely result in scratches or scuffs. Always lift items or use sliders when moving things around to keep your floors pristine.
Long-term care and restoration for parquetry flooring
Even with the best upkeep, parquet floors will eventually show signs of wear and tear. But the beauty of timber is that it can be restored, giving your floors a fresh start when needed.
Professional sanding and polishing
Over time, scratches and minor damage are inevitable. Thankfully, parquet floors can be sanded back and polished to restore their original look. Since parquet is made up of intricate pieces, it’s best to call in professionals to ensure precision and avoid damaging the patterns.
Here at Kustom Timber, we offer expert timber floor sanding and polishing in Melbourne, with over 25 years of experience transforming timber floors. Using eco-friendly polishes, we can bring your parquetry back to life, improving its durability and beauty without harmful fumes.
After sanding, a new coat of finish can give your parquet floors a revitalised appearance while adding a protective layer. Whether you want to maintain its natural beauty or change up the look with a new stain, professional refinishing is key to long-term maintenance.
When to consider restoration
If your parquet floors are looking dull, have accumulated scratches, or show signs of uneven wear, it might be time for a refresh. Regular sanding and polishing, done every 10–15 years, can keep your floors in top shape and extend their life for decades.
Let us keep your timber floors looking their best
Parquetry floors bring timeless style to any home, but they need the right care to stay beautiful. Regular cleaning, preventing damage, and professional refinishing can keep them looking their best for years to come.
If you’re looking for professional timber floor maintenance and aftercare in Melbourne, Kustom Timber is your trusted choice. Whether it’s parquetry or any other timber floor, our expert team ensures your floors stay in top condition with our professional services. Get in touch with us today to give your floors the care they deserve.
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