Hardwood floors add lasting beauty and value to your home, but summer in Houston can be tough on them. From tracked-in dirt to extra foot traffic and seasonal spills, it’s the little things that can wear down your floors over time.

At iHome Remodeling, we specialize in high-quality hardwood flooring installation and refinishing services, and we know what it takes to keep your investment looking its best. Use these practical tips to protect your floors all summer long—and keep them shining for years to come.

1. Add Door Mats and Entry Rugs

Summer means more in-and-out movement, especially with kids or pets. Place a high-quality mat outside and inside every exterior door. These catch dust, grass, and debris before it ever hits your hardwood.

Pro tip: Choose rugs with non-slip backings that won’t trap moisture or scratch your floors.

2. Sweep or Dust Daily

It may sound simple, but consistent cleaning is key. Even tiny bits of grit can act like sandpaper under shoes and furniture, dulling your finish over time.

Use a microfiber mop or soft-bristled broom to sweep up dirt, crumbs, and pet hair daily. Avoid vacuums with hard plastic wheels or beater bars that could leave scratches.

3. Skip the Wet Mop

You don’t need much water to clean hardwood floors—in fact, too much moisture can seep into seams and cause warping. Instead of mopping with a soaked head, lightly dampen a cloth or mop pad with a pH-neutral hardwood floor cleaner.

Spray bottles work great for controlled cleaning. Just remember: less is more.

4. Use Furniture Pads (and Check Them Often)

Summer is a popular time to rearrange furniture or bring in temporary seating for guests. Protect your floors from scratches and scuffs by adding felt pads under table legs, chairs, and rolling furniture.

Check the pads regularly—especially under chairs—as they wear down or fall off over time.

5. Keep Blinds or Curtains Closed During Peak Sunlight

Direct sunlight can fade or discolor hardwood over time. If you have large windows or glass doors, use blinds, shades, or curtains to block harsh afternoon light. Not only will this help preserve your floor’s finish, but it’ll also help regulate indoor temperatures during those hot Houston days.

Don’t Forget: Refinishing Can Restore Worn Floors

If your hardwood already looks dull or scratched, refinishing might be the best move. iHome Remodeling offers expert hardwood refinishing services that can bring your existing floors back to life, without a full replacement.

Give Your Floors the Care They Deserve

Following these summer tips will help you protect and extend the life of your hardwood flooring. A little effort now goes a long way in preserving that beautiful surface for years to come.

Thinking about upgrading your floors or need a pro’s opinion on refinishing? Contact us today—we’re proud to serve Houston homeowners with expert craftsmanship and reliable flooring solutions.