This care guide is for our engineered wide plank, herringbone, chevron flooring and design panels.

Matt Britton hardwood floors are designed to withstand the wear and tear of day-to-day life. As wood is a natural material, it will react to the environment it is installed in – dry environments will cause a floor to lose moisture and humid environments will cause moisture to be gained. Throughout the life of the floor, we recommend that the room temperature should be maintained between 15°C and 25°C and the relative humidity levels in the room should be between 45% and 65%. This will keep any movement within the floor to a minimum and ensure that the floor remains stable.

Engineered hardwood flooring is a fantastic choice for its durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. However, like any flooring material, it requires proper care and maintenance to ensure it remains in excellent condition for years to come. In this guide, we’ll share some top tips for the care and maintenance of your engineered hardwood floor.

Preventative Maintenance

1.Regular Cleaning

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to maintain your engineered hardwood floor is regular cleaning.

Here’s how to do it:

Sweep or vacuum the floor regularly to remove dirt, dust, and debris. Use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum cleaner with a floor brush attachment to prevent scratching. Use a microfibre mop or a damp mop with a specially formulated wood floor cleaner to wipe the floor clean. Avoid using excessive water, as water can penetrate between the planks and cause damage.

2.Wipe Up Spills Immediately

Engineered hardwood flooring is more resistant to moisture than solid wood, but it’s still important to wipe up spills promptly to prevent any potential damage. Use a clean, dry cloth or paper towel to soak up any liquid immediately.

3.Use Rugs and Mats

Place rugs or mats at entrances and high-traffic areas to prevent dirt and grit from being tracked onto the floor. These mats can also help protect against scratches and scuffs caused by abrasive footwear.

4.Protect Against Furniture Damage

To prevent scratches and dents from furniture legs, consider using felt or rubber furniture pads. Be sure to lift furniture when moving it rather than dragging it across the floor.

5.Manage Humidity

Engineered hardwood flooring is less susceptible to humidity-related issues than solid wood, but it’s still essential to maintain a stable indoor humidity level. Use a humidifier in dry climates and a dehumidifier in humid conditions to keep the relative humidity between 30% and 50%. Sudden changes in humidity can cause the floor to expand or contract, potentially leading to warping or gaps.

6.Trim Pets Nails

If you have pets, keep their nails trimmed to prevent scratches on the floor’s surface. Place pet mats under food and water dishes to catch spills.

7.Avoid Harsh Cleaners

Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaning products, such as ammonia, vinegar, or wax-based cleaners. Instead, use a manufacturer-recommended wood floor cleaner– to maintain the finish and prevent damage. We recommend Rubio Monocoat All Natural Wood Cleaner

8.Perform Routine Maintenance

Depending on the traffic and wear on your engineered hardwood floor, it’s a good idea to perform routine maintenance and repair any visible damage. If you notice scratches, dents, or other damage, consider addressing them promptly to prevent further deterioration. We recommend Rubio Monocoat products for routine maintenance – see https://mattbritton.ie/product-category/accessories/

Cleaning Hardwood Floors

We recommend using Rubio Monocoat All Natural Wood Cleaner with a non abrasive micro fibre mop or cloth.

Instructions:

1)  If necessary, remove dust from the floor (vacuum cleaner, brush).

2)  Pour 10 ml (5 pumps) All Natural Wood Cleaner into a 5-8 Litre bucket with lukewarm water (max. 40°C).

3)  Clean the surface with a micro fibre mop or cloth. Avoid using excessive water and product. No need to rinse.

4)  Allow to dry. Do not walk on the floor until it is completely dry.

Things to Note

Wood is a natural material, no two pieces are identical and variations can arise between batches. Differences in colour, grain, knots, and texture are inherent due to its natural properties.

Recommendations

We recommend Rubio Monocoat products for Care & Maintenance of your hardwood flooring. Please see https://mattbritton.ie/product-category/accessories/ for more information.