Frequently Asked Questions - Maintenance

Are hardwood floors difficult to maintain?
No. In many cases they are as easy or easier than carpet, ceramic tile, laminate or vinyl.

How do I maintain my hardwood floors?
Bruce Dura-Luster or Dura-Luster Plus products should be cleaned immediately after installation with Bruce No-Wax Cleaner. Routine care by sweeping or vacuuming the floor to remove loose dirt before it can be ground into the floor's surface. Spread cleaner directly onto the floor and wipe with a sponge mop or appropriate cleaning applicator. Never mop floor with water or vinegar as vinegar is an acid and may etch the floor.

Bruce Dura-Satin Wax should be immediately waxed following installation. Darker shaded floors should be waxed with Dark 'n' Rich and light shaded floors should be waxed with Lite 'n' Natural. A routine care of sweeping or vacuuming the floor to remove dust and dirt before it can be ground into the surface is recommended. Wax the floor once or twice a year. Do not use Bruce No-Wax Cleaner on waxed floors!

What do I use under my furniture to protect the floor from scratching?
Bruce offers felt protector pads to use in place of the hard metal or plastic buttons that are placed on the legs of furniture. You should use these on all the legs of your furniture to prevent damage to the floor.

How do I fix a small scratch on my floors?
Bruce offers touch-up kits for Dura-Satin and Dura-Luster finish.

My floors have lost their shine. How do I get them to look like they did when they were new?
Bruce offers a product called Fresh Finish that can be applied to a urethane finished floor to refresh the original appearance.

Where can I find all of these maintenance products?
You need to check with the retail outlet where you purchased your flooring. They should have the full line of maintenance products at their store.

What should I use under my area rugs?
A breathable rug underlay. Mesh or grid patterns are best.

What other cleaning products do you recommend for my floor?
We do not recommend any alternative products for maintaining your floors. Use only the recommended cleaners and maintenance products that are manufactured by Bruce Hardwood Floors exclusively for factory finished hardwood floors.

Can I roll heavy furniture across my hardwood floors?
No. When moving or rolling heavy pieces of furniture or appliances, use protection, such as strips of 1/4" hardboard as a runner under the wheels or legs. Always move items with caution (see denting under general FAQ's).

Can I mop my floors using hot, soapy water?
No. Water can prematurely age your hardwood floors and cause them to crack and split.