FAQ: Everything Toronto Homeowners Need to Know About Flooring Maintenance
Flooring is one of the most important investments you’ll make in your Toronto home. Whether you’ve chosen engineered hardwood, luxury vinyl, laminate, cork, or another material, proper maintenance is the key to preserving its beauty and durability for years to come.
At The Floor Shop, we’re often asked how to care for different types of flooring. To make things easier, we’ve put together this comprehensive FAQ addressing the most common maintenance questions from Toronto homeowners—so you can enjoy your floors with confidence, no matter the season or space.
1. How often should I clean my floors?
Answer:
The frequency depends on the material and traffic levels in your home, but a general rule is:
- Sweep or vacuum high-traffic areas (like kitchens and hallways) 2-3 times per week.
- Damp mop or clean with a recommended floor cleaner once a week.
- Deep clean or refinish (if needed) annually or bi-annually, depending on the flooring type.
Toronto’s climate—especially during slushy winters and rainy springs—means floors often get dirtier quicker. Use mats at entrances to help reduce how much gets tracked inside.
2. What’s the best way to protect hardwood floors from scratches and dents?
Answer:
Engineered or solid hardwood is durable, but still vulnerable to scratches from furniture, pets, and grit. Here’s how to protect it:
- Use felt pads under furniture legs.
- Keep pet nails trimmed.
- Avoid high heels or heavy footwear indoors.
- Place mats or area rugs in high-traffic zones and entryways.
- Clean up spills promptly to prevent water damage.
For Toronto homeowners, winter salt and grit are major culprits. Place a boot tray by the door and encourage guests to remove footwear.
3. Can I use a steam mop on my floors?
Answer:
In most cases, no. Steam mops force moisture into flooring seams, which can lead to warping, swelling, or delamination—especially for laminate, engineered wood, or cork.
Instead, use a damp microfiber mop and a flooring-specific cleaner recommended by your manufacturer or our experts at The Floor Shop.
4. How do I maintain vinyl or laminate flooring?
Answer:
Luxury vinyl and laminate floors are low-maintenance, but they still benefit from regular care:
- Sweep or vacuum regularly (using a soft brush or hardwood-safe vacuum setting).
- Clean with a pH-neutral cleaner or a mix of water and vinegar.
- Avoid soaking the floors or using abrasive cleaners.
- Protect from sharp objects or dragging heavy furniture.
Vinyl is waterproof, but it’s still good practice to wipe up spills promptly—especially in Toronto’s winter months where melted snow can pool indoors.
5. What’s the best way to clean cork flooring?
Answer:
Cork is soft, natural, and comfortable—but it needs a gentle approach:
- Sweep or vacuum regularly with a soft brush attachment.
- Damp mop with a pH-balanced cleaner (avoid harsh chemicals or excess water).
- Re-seal the cork every few years to maintain water resistance.
- Protect with furniture pads and avoid dragging items across the surface.
Cork flooring is great for homes with kids or pets, but it can scratch or dent more easily—so preventative care goes a long way.
6. Do Toronto seasons affect how I should care for my flooring?
Answer:
Yes! Toronto’s four seasons bring humidity, cold, heat, and moisture—all of which can impact your floors.
- Winter: Salt, water, and dirt from boots can damage finishes. Use mats and clean frequently.
- Spring/Fall: Fluctuating humidity can cause expansion/contraction in wood floors. Use a humidifier in winter and a dehumidifier in summer to maintain consistent indoor moisture.
- Summer: Higher humidity can cause swelling in wood or cork flooring. Keep windows closed on humid days and run fans or A/C when needed.
Climate-conscious care helps preserve flooring longevity and minimizes seasonal wear.
7. Can flooring be refinished or repaired?
Answer:
That depends on the material:
- Solid hardwood can usually be refinished multiple times.
- Engineered hardwood may be refinished once or twice, depending on the veneer thickness.
- Laminate and vinyl cannot be refinished but damaged planks can often be replaced individually.
- Cork may be re-sealed, and some types can be lightly sanded and refinished.
If you’re unsure, contact The Floor Shop in Toronto—we can evaluate your floors and recommend the best course of action.
8. Should I use store-bought cleaners or natural solutions?
Answer:
Stick with manufacturer-approved cleaners or ask our team for safe recommendations.
While some natural options (like diluted vinegar for vinyl or laminate) are fine, avoid vinegar, ammonia, or soap-based cleaners on hardwood or cork, as they can dull the finish or cause damage.
Always test a new product in an inconspicuous area first.
9. How can I keep my floors looking new long-term?
Answer:
- Follow a routine cleaning schedule.
- Use the right tools and products for your specific flooring.
- Address spills and scratches immediately.
- Place rugs or runners in high-use areas.
- Refinish, reseal, or touch-up as needed.
Regular maintenance pays off—it extends the life of your flooring and helps protect your investment.
10. Does professional maintenance make a difference?
Answer:
Absolutely. Even with regular cleaning, floors can benefit from periodic professional services:
- Deep cleaning and buffing for hardwood or engineered wood.
- Sealing and refinishing for cork or hardwood.
- Precision repairs or plank replacements for damaged vinyl or laminate.
At The Floor Shop, our professional flooring team in Toronto offers expert guidance, care services, and product-specific maintenance tips to keep your floors looking their best.
Final Thoughts: Consistent Care = Lasting Beauty
Maintaining your floors doesn’t have to be complicated—it just requires the right routine and products for your material. As a Toronto homeowner, you’ll face everything from salty slush to summer humidity, but with the right care strategy, your floors will remain beautiful and functional for years to come.
Need help finding the best cleaning method for your flooring type? Have a tricky maintenance concern? Visit The Floor Shop in Toronto or contact our team of flooring professionals. We’re always here to help you protect your investment and enjoy a cleaner, more comfortable home.
