Pets & Engineered Timber Flooring Care. Keep Your Floors Looking Purr-fect!

Engineered timber flooring offers a beautiful and durable alternative to solid wood, especially for pet owners. Its layered construction makes it more resistant to warping and moisture compared to solid wood, making it a great choice for busy households with furry friends. But even the most well-behaved pets can pose a challenge to your floors. Here’s how to keep your engineered timber looking its best while providing a comfortable living space for your furry companions.

Claws vs. Floor: The Importance of Nail Trimming

The biggest threat to engineered timber comes from sharp claws. Regularly trimming your pet’s nails is crucial. Ask your veterinarian or groomer to show you the proper technique, or use a high-quality nail clipper designed for pets. Grinding your pet’s nails on walks on concrete surfaces can also help keep them naturally filed down. The RSPCA also offers tips on keeping your pets nails trimmed – here.

Brush Up on Brushing:

Regular brushing removes loose fur, reducing the amount that ends up on the floor over time. Brushing also helps to remove dirt and debris from your pets coat that can end up on your floor and cause scratches. Regular sweeping and vacuuming helps to remove fur and debris that can cause scratches and wear to the surface if your floor as well.

Area Rug Retreats:

Strategic placement of area rugs can work wonders. Place them in high-traffic areas like entryways, hallways, and around food and water bowls. Rugs act as a barrier, catching dirt and debris before it reaches the floor and providing a softer landing spot for playful paws. Look for rugs with a non-slip backing to prevent them from bunching up and creating a tripping hazard.

Cleaning Up After the Crew:

Accidents happen. The key is to address spills and messes immediately. Blot up any liquids with a clean, absorbent cloth or paper towel. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners, which can damage the finish of your floor. Most manufacturers recommend using a wood floor cleaner specifically formulated for engineered timber. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance. We recommend using a spray mop with a microfibre pad and the appropriate cleaning solution to keep your floors looking like new. You can view and purchase quality aftercare products online via our store.

Coating Considerations: Hard Wax Oil vs. Lacquer

The type of finish on your engineered timber flooring plays a significant role in pet-friendliness. Here’s a breakdown of two popular options:

• Hard Wax Oil: This natural oil-based finish offers a beautiful matte appearance that showcases the natural grain of the timber. However, hard wax oil offers slightly less protection from spills and moisture, which means you will need to keep on top of cleaning. Spills will need to be cleaned up promptly to prevent staining.
• Lacquer: This synthetic finish offers better protection from spills and moisture, making it a good choice for areas prone to spills. It creates more of a satin finish and provides better scratch resistance. However, scratches tend to show more readily on lacquer compared to hard wax oil.

Beyond the Basics: Proactive Pet Prevention

Here are some additional tips to keep your engineered timber flooring looking its best:

• Train your pet: Teach your pet basic commands like “off” or “down” to discourage them from scratching at the floor.
• Provide scratching alternatives: Offer your cat scratching posts and your dog chew toys to redirect their scratching instincts away from the floor.
• Consider a different surface for food and water bowls: Place pet bowls on a tray with a raised lip or on a tile or linoleum surface to catch spills and make cleaning easier.
• Regular vacuuming: Weekly vacuuming with a soft brush attachment removes dirt, dust, and pet hair before they can scratch the floor.
• Regular mopping: Moping your floors regularly with a microfibre spray mop helps to remove built up dirt and grime, which could wear the surface of your floor.

By following these tips and choosing the right cleaning products for your specific flooring finish, you can enjoy the beauty of engineered timber floors alongside your furry companions. Remember, with a little effort, you can create a pet-friendly home that looks and feels fantastic for everyone!