Pets bring joy and warmth to our homes and hearts, but they also come with a set of challenges. From accidents and scratches to spills and dirt, owning a pet can pose potential damage to our floors. As hardwood floors add significant value and charm to our living spaces, it's common to wonder whether they're a suitable flooring solution for pet owners. In this blog post, we'll explore the pros and cons of hardwood floors with pets and provide expert tips to keep your floors looking great for years to come.
PROS:
Hardwood floors offer tremendous durability and can withstand heavy foot traffic, which is great for pets.
Unlike carpeted floors, hardwood is easy to clean and doesn't trap pet hair or odors. It's also resistant to mildew and bacteria, making it a hypoallergenic choice.
Hardwood floors come in several colors and finishes, which allows homeowners to choose a pet-friendly option that masks scratches or dents. Distressed and hand-scraped finishes are perfect for concealing pet damage over time.
Hardwood is a great investment, as it can last for decades. Pet owners can enjoy the aesthetic and resale value of hardwood floors for years to come while accommodating their furry friends' needs.
CONS:
Hardwood floors can become slippery, and pets can easily slip or slide on the surface, causing an injury. This is especially dangerous for older pets with arthritis or younger pets prone to accidents.
If not appropriately trained, pets can scratch or dent the hardwood floors, which can require costly repairs or replacement. This may happen when pets run, jump, or dig on the floor surface.
Pets can also create water damage to hardwood floors by “piddling” on the floor. Please wipe it up soon to eliminate the potential for damage to the hardwood floor. It is also a good idea to elevate the water bowls for the pets, putting an area rug or plastic mat under the water bowls may cause issues by trapping the moisture under the mat.
EXPERT TIPS:
Train your pet to walk calmly on the hardwood and discourage any rough play or behavior that can cause damage.
Use area rugs and runners in high-traffic pet zones like hallways, kitchens, and entryways to prevent scratches and provide a non-slip surface for your pets.
Protect hardwood floors from spills by choosing materials that are easy to clean, like hardwood finishes, that can withstand casual moisture.
Trim your pet's nails regularly to prevent damages and scratches to your hardwood floors.
Consult with the hardwood flooring installer to understand the types of hardwood that emit fewer VOCs, like oak and maple or alternative flooring like bamboo.
In summary, hardwood floors can be pet-friendly with proper care and maintenance. While there are potential cons to having hardwood floors with pets, the pros of durability, ease of cleaning, hypoallergenic qualities and investment outweigh the cons for many pet owners. By understanding the risks, taking necessary precautions, and investing in high-quality hardwood floors, you can enjoy the beauty of hardwood floors and the love of your pets for years to come.
Learn about your options at: www.wizardflooring.com
847-540-9500
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