As an animal enthusiast and proud caregiver of Jackson and Molly, my heart goes out to homeowners who visit our showroom with concerns about their indoor pets.
Many admire the elegance of hardwood floors, but they worry about their furry companions. They fear that their dream of beautiful hardwood flooring is incompatible with having pets in the home.
I reassure them that I understand their dilemma because I’ve faced it myself. If hardwood floors couldn’t coexist with my dogs, I wouldn’t have them—but I do!
While every situation is unique and depends on personal preferences and pet types, here are 10 valuable tips for homeowners who desire hardwood floors and want to enjoy them with their beloved pets:
- Keep Pet Nails Trimmed: Regularly trim your pet’s nails to minimize scratches on hardwood floors. This is beneficial for both the floors and the pets’ health.
- Choose a Hard Species of Wood: Opt for hardwood species known for their durability against pet-related wear and tear.
- Consider Light to Medium Colors: Lighter hardwood floors tend to camouflage scratches, pet hair, and dander better than darker tones.
- Avoid Glossy Finishes: Matte or satin finishes are ideal as they conceal imperfections like scratches.
- Select Hardwood with a Pronounced Grain: Open-grain hardwood varieties divert attention from scratches.
- Add Texture: Hand-scraped or distressed hardwood hides scratches effectively.
- Opt for Solid Wood or High-Quality Engineered Floors: These types can be sanded and refinished if needed.
- Use Rugs in Pet High-Traffic Areas: Rugs not only protect floors but also enhance the aesthetic of the space.
- Clean Up Pet Urine Promptly: Accidents happen; swift cleanup prevents damage to hardwood floors.
- Use Mats under Water Bowls and Litter Boxes: Mats prevent water damage and protect floors around litter boxes.
Takeaway: Don’t let concerns about pets deter you from enjoying beautiful hardwood floors in your home. With these tips, your pets can coexist harmoniously with your beloved hardwood floors.
For expert advice and assistance in selecting and installing pet-friendly flooring, trust Mr. Felix Floor, Inc. Contact us today to turn your dream of pet-friendly hardwood floors into a reality!