Hardwood is a great choice of flooring - particularly in domestic settings where less traffic means that the floor will be in general a little easier to maintain and keep looking pristine.
A hardwood floor involves a substantial investment, and while offering a warm and beautiful look, it does need to be looked after to keep it that way.
The main way to keep a floor looking good is to add a sealer, although it may be applied when the floor is installed.
It is advisable to find out what type of sealer was applied as this can aid future cleaning efforts.
One of the problems that can occur with hardwood is surface scratching and abrasions - which can damage the wood directly, or scratch off and wear down any sealer that has been applied.
The best way to maintain your floor is to try to avoid damaging it in any way, thereby making spillages and stains easier to clean.
The main cause of surface scratching is dirt and grit introduced into the area on the soles of shoes, which may come as a surprise to some people.
If you have any doubt, just take a look at the soles of your shoes as you walk in off the street.
These bits of grit can cause markings on the floor and it is important to keep them away from the area.
The simple step of placing doormats at entrances, and using them, will go some way to reducing the amount of dirt on the floor.
Regular sweeping and vacuuming will help in moving the dirt that inevitably does find its way into the area.
It is not advisable to mop the floor until all surface dirt has been removed - and this should be done regularly, daily if possible.
Another cause of surface scratching and dents is heavy furniture, and other heavy items.
Care should be taken when moving furniture, and heavy items, which should be lifted and not dragged.
If a surface gets notably scratched, the floor will be exposed and it may be necessary to call in a professional wood floor cleaning company which will be able to advise you.