Why should I use shoe moulding?

By: In: Installation No Comment

One of Heritage Hardwood Floors' trim carpenters installs shoe moulding on existing baseboards upon completion of new hardwood floors. Notice how he protects the new flooring just as we would do in our own homes.

One of Heritage Hardwood Floors’ trim carpenters installs shoe moulding on existing baseboards upon completion of new hardwood floors. Notice how he protects the new flooring just as we would do in our own homes.


Why should I use shoe moulding over the bottom edge of my baseboards?

Denise R. – St. Petersburg

That is a good question, Denise.

Variations in temperature and humidity cause wood to expand and contract. When we install hardwood flooring we always provide for this and leave a small gap between the edges of the flooring and baseboards to provide for such movement. Shoe moulding makes for a neat and easy-to-clean transition between the base and hardwood flooring, and provides a cover for that little gap and prevents dust and dirt from accumulating there. Oh, and it looks good too!

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What product is best for cleaning hardwood floors?

By: In: Maintenance No Comment

Terry,

There are so many floor cleaning products that claim to be the best for maintaining hardwood floors that it is confusing. What do you use that you can recommend?

Ed J. – St. Petersburg, Fla.

Hello Ed,

Call me old fashioned if you will, but I use a dust mop or a vacuum without a beater bar first to remove dust and loose debris. Then I use a dry mop and a mixture of water and vinegar. Pour two ounces of vinegar in a 32-ounce-size spray bottle and fill it with water. Spray the mixture ahead of where you are working and mop over it with a dry mop.

Presto – simple, easy and inexpensive!

If you feel the need to purchase a commercial solution, Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner works well, but be sure it is their cleaner and not their polish. Never, ever use a polish or wax on your hardwood floors. Follow Bona’s instructions for use.

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