Timber floors are fairly easy to maintain. They are easy to keep clean and can withstand the challenge of time. Here are some precausions to keep in mind, so that the life-span of your timber floor can extend further.

Dirt and grit

Dirt and Grit are the enemies of any kind of timber floor. You can protect your timber floor from the damage of dirt and grit by using dirt-trapping doormats at each external entrance of the house. To maximise the effect, using small rugs or carpet squares inside the entrance can help removing extra dirt from shoes. 

Lighting/sunlight

Strong light, particularly direct sunlight can cause chemical reactions in wood and result in change of colour. Installing curtains or applying special treatments to windows can minimise the damage from lights. Occasionally moving rugs and mats around to ensure the floor tones evenly.

Temperature and moisture

Extremes of temperature or drastic change in humidity will cause cracks. Humidifier can increase the humidity, while air conditioners are rarely humidity correct. Particularly in winter, air conditioners can create an extremely dry atmosphere which can cause shrinkage and cracking of the floor. Therefore, you should always keep track on the temperature and humidity of your place; control the temperature and humidity by using proper equipment. Keeping the temperature and humidity in a balanced level can protect your timber floor and the beauty of your timber floor could last longer.

Since timber is a natural material, it reacts to the weather. Its size would slightly expand in humid weather and shrink slightly in dry weather. It is normal that there could be small gaps opening between the floorboards.

Furniture and shoes

Sharp furniture legs and high heels are also the enemy of timber floor. Ensure all of your furnitures are fit with felt pads. Self adhesive felt pads can be cut to size and are easy to attach. Fit felt pads to the legs of tables and chairs so that they can be moved easily without the risk of scuffing the floor, prevent scratches and marks. 

Always protect your floor when moving heavy objects. Lift them clear off the floor or use a towel or rug with the soft side facing the floor to slide them.

Avoid wearing stiletto heels on floor boards. They can dent and scratch your floor. Prepare soft shoes for your guests or ask them to take off their high heels to protect the timber floor.

Surface coating

Floors coated with a varnish (polyurethane) finish is generally maintenance free for 8-15 years. The floor can then be recoated to remove any marks. During maintenance, you can choose a new surface finish desired and  the floor will look like new. 

Oiled floors should require a little more care. It needs to be polished once or twice a year. Heavily worn areas may need more regular maintenance. Places like kitchens can often be heavily worn and need to be recoated more regularly.