Care & maintenance

Maintenance by material

Modern Wood Flooring team · Published September 20, 2026

Lived-in living room with a wood floor, rug and everyday furniture. — Grit, sunlight and furniture feet do more to a floor than years do. Room scene for illustration; it does not show a specific product, client project or installation.

Every floor lasts longer with the right habits. The habits differ by material more than most people expect.

Solid and engineered hardwood

Sweep or vacuum grit regularly; it is the abrasive that dulls finishes. Wipe spills promptly, use cleaners recommended for factory-finished wood, and avoid steam mops. Felt pads on furniture and mats at doors do most of the protective work. Solid and thicker engineered floors can be screened or refinished when the surface tires.

Vinyl and luxury vinyl tile

Resilient floors tolerate damp mopping and everyday moisture. Use neutral cleaners, avoid abrasive pads and strong solvents, and lift rather than drag heavy furniture. Rigid-core products resist dents better than flexible ones; the wear layer determines scratch resistance.

All floors

Sunlight will change colour over time, especially in wood; move rugs occasionally. Keep a few spare planks from the original batch for repairs.

Always follow the specific manufacturer care guide for your product. Where a manufacturer supplies a care document we will link it from the product page once verified.

Common questions

Can I use a steam mop?

Not on wood floors; manufacturers generally exclude steam from their warranties. Some resilient floors tolerate it. Check the specific care guide first.