Up until the 20th century, a vast majority of the flooring options were wide-planked floors. It was and still is believed to be the most efficient way to produce more durable surfaces. The mechanism of using wider and longer lengths reduces the number of end and edge seams in the flooring, hence creating unique looking flooring. Wide plank flooring is available in a wide variety of styles, grades and species and can be prefinished or site finished. It also gives off an old-world charm.

Wide Plank boards can be up to one foot in width and are usually thick. They are designed this way to endure a lifetime of use. Typically, plank flooring must be installed by a contractor due to the technique required for installation. One major advantage of wide plank flooring is that if one plank is damaged, it can be replaced without having to renovate or replace the entire floor.

Maintenance of wide plank flooring varies, depending on the species of wood being used. Refer to the guidelines on caring for hardwoods below and use Rejuvenate Home Surface Renewer System For Hardwood Floors, a safe cleaner for all types of hardwoods.

General Guidelines to Keep Your Hardwood Flooring in Great Shape
These simple steps can prolong the life and beauty of your hardwood floor regardless of the specific type of wood you may have. Close curtains and blinds- UV rays from sunlight can fade colors and cause discoloration. Use protectors under furniture bar hardwood floor looking new:

• Close curtains and blinds- UV rays from sunlight can fade colors on floor and sometimes cause discoloration
• Place floor protectors under furniture
• Clean, wipe or blot spills immediately to help prevent stains.
• Place doormats at every door- this helps to trap dirt at the doorway instead of transferring it to the floor. (The Floor mats featured at ForLifeProducts.com are perfect for this!)
• Take care when moving heavy objects like furniture and equipment- utilize furniture coasters to transport heavy objects across floors.
• Take care when moving heavy objects like furniture and equipment- utilize furniture coaters to transport heavy objects across floors.
• Dust and vacuum floors regularly to maximize beauty and decrease buildup of debris
• Exercise caution when using bleaches, mildew removers, oven cleaners, drain openers and plant food as these contain strong chemicals that can discolor floors.
• Always follow your manufacturer’s guidelines on products that are safe for your hardwood floor type.
• Rearrange area rugs occasionally as they block sunlight causing a discolored appearance under the rug.
• Avoid exposure to water on hardwoods.
• Maintain normal humidity of 40-60% throughout all seasons of the year to reduce the natural expansion and contraction process typically found in hardwoods. Humidity levels can be maintained with air conditioners, humidifiers, de-humidifiers or with a heating system.
• Keep pets nails trimmed and filed and remove stiletto style heels to minimize scratches.
• Never clean hardwood floors with steel wools or scouring powders as these can cause damage.