Do I Need to Put a Sealant on Maple-Wood Floors?

Sealants

• Two types of sealants are available for use on your maple floor. One is water-based sealant that is easy to clean up and dries in less than an hour. The other is an oil-based sealant that is toxic and flammable. Water-based sealant is nontoxic and flame-resistant but can cost more than oil sealants.

Maintenance

• After you've applied sealant to your maple floor, maintain its appearance with daily mopping. Mopping the floor with either a dry or a damp mop removes particles such as sand, dirt and dust that could wear off the finish as people walk on the floor. Lauren Summerstone from Housekeeping Solutions recommends a microfiber mop to dust your maple floor, because it picks up even the tiniest particles.

Refinishing

• Depending upon the foot traffic your maple floor gets, worn spots will show up after a time, even after routine maintenance. To prevent discoloration of bare wood, you will need to apply another coat of sealant to your floor. Sand the whole floor, even if the floor shows signs of wear in only a few spots, for sealant to adhere to the whole floor. For the best adhesion, remove two layers of the old floor finish before applying the new coat of sealant.

Prevention

• Extending the life of your maple floor and the need for refinishing takes only a few preventative measures against water damage, scratching, nicks and worn spots. Place a mat in front of entryways to protect your floor from dirt and sand. Placing rugs in high traffic areas, such as in front of the kitchen sink and refrigerator, under the kitchen table and in front of the sofa, prevents worn spots on your floor. Place felt pads under your furniture legs, especially if you need to move the furniture, to prevent scratching your maple floor. Be sure to wipe up any liquid spills from your hardwood floor, and dry the area with a soft cloth. Water left on the floor can wear off the wood finish, causing discoloration