Caring for Your Floors During the First Weeks

The curing period is the most important stage. The floor will feel dry, but the coating is still hardening.

Light walking is normally fine the next day and socks or stockings are recommended. Furniture can usually return after three to five days, although heavier items should be carried and placed gently. Rugs and coverings need more time and should wait ten to fourteen days so moisture does not become trapped against the coating. Full curing can take up to twenty-eight days, depending on conditions inside the home.

During this period, avoid mopping, dragging furniture and placing pot plants directly on the timber. Good ventilation will help the coating dry evenly.

Preventing Scratches and Surface Marks

Furniture is one of the most common causes of early scratching. Felt pads should be placed under all legs, including chairs, tables and heavier items. Office chairs with wheels should sit on a protective mat to prevent abrasion. When rearranging a room, lift items rather than slide them.

Footwear can also affect the coating. High heels may dent softer timbers and pet claws can leave marks, so regular nail trimming is recommended. After the floor is fully cured, entry mats can be placed at doorways to collect grit before it reaches the timber.

Keeping Your Floors Clean

Dust and grit behave like fine sandpaper on a freshly sealed surface. A quick daily sweep with an electrostatic mop or a soft broom will prevent fine scratches. Vacuuming can be done with a soft brush head or felt-tip tool. Hard bristle heads should be avoided.

Mopping should be done with a damp mop only. Excess water can dull the finish or cause long-term damage. For general cleaning, choose pH-neutral timber floor cleaners. Silicone-based products and harsh detergents should be avoided, as they can affect the coating over time.

If liquids are spilled, wipe them immediately with a clean, slightly damp cloth.

Managing Sunlight Exposure

Gold Coast homes often receive strong sunlight, which can gradually fade timber coatings. Curtains, blinds or UV-filtering window films can help protect your floors in bright areas. If you use rugs, rotate them occasionally so the surrounding timber ages at the same rate.

Long-Term Maintenance

Even well-looked-after floors lose a little of their original sheen over time. A maintenance buff and recoat every four to five years will refresh the protective layer and extend the life of the floor. If scratching is light, a fine sand and recoat may be all that is needed. Heavier dents or damaged boards may require a full resand to return the floor to its best condition.

For additional guidance on coatings and care, you can view the following ATFA brochures:

If you would like personalised advice or have questions about caring for your newly restored floors, Tom Brighton Floor Sanding is always happy to help. Reach out today.