Many homeowners love the elegance of hardwood flooring but worry about how it will hold up to their pets. Scratches from claws, spills from water bowls, and accidents are all valid concerns.
However, with the right choices and a little proactive care, you can have a beautiful hardwood floor that coexists perfectly with your four-legged family members. At Meyer Floor Covering, we help our clients in Lakewood, Tacoma, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, and Steilacoom find a pet-friendly hardwood solution.
Choosing the Right Hardwood for Your Busy Lakewood, WA Home
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Go for a Harder Wood Species: Hardwood's resistance to dents and scratches is measured by the Janka hardness scale. The higher the number, the harder the wood. Opting for a harder species like Hickory, Maple, or Brazilian Cherry will give you more peace of mind. While softer woods like Pine or American Cherry are beautiful, they are more susceptible to scratches from claws.
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Choose a Distressed or Textured Finish: Hardwood floors with a distressed, hand-scraped, or wire-brushed texture are excellent for hiding scratches and dings. The natural character of the finish blends with any new imperfections, making them less noticeable.
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Opt for a Matte Finish: A high-gloss or semi-gloss finish will reflect light, making scratches more visible. A matte or satin finish is a much better choice, as it helps to hide scuffs and scratches.
Proactive Care for Your Wood Floors
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Keep Claws Trimmed: This is the number one way to prevent scratches. Regularly trimming your dog's or cat's claws will significantly reduce the risk of damage to your floors.
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Clean Up Spills Immediately: Spills from water bowls or accidents can stain and damage hardwood if left to sit. Clean them up as soon as they happen.
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Place Mats Under Bowls: Use a waterproof mat or tray under food and water bowls to catch spills and prevent damage.
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Use Area Rugs: Place area rugs in high-traffic areas where pets play, like the living room or hallways. This will provide a soft surface for them to walk on and protect the floor underneath.
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Regular Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and grit that can scratch the floor. Use a cleaner specifically designed for hardwood floors.
Want Beautiful Hardwood Flooring that can Stand Up to Your Pets? Stop by Meyer Floors & Blinds
At Meyer Floor Covering, we have a wide selection of hardwood floors and finishes that are durable and pet-friendly. Our experts will help you find the perfect balance between style and practicality.
Stop by our showroom in Lakewood, WA, or contact us today to learn more. We are proud to serve Lakewood, Tacoma, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, and Steilacoom.
