Protecting Your Hardwood Floors When Using a Real Christmas Tree
How to Protect Your Hardwood Flooring From a Real Christmas Tree
You want a real Christmas tree this year and that is jolly and all, but be aware of the possible damage a real tree can do to your hardwood floors if not properly protected. If you know what causes the damage it makes it easy to protect your hardwood floors from the tree. So, I will tell you what the three main reasons for damaged floors this time of the year are:
- Excessive watering of the tree
- Sticky sap stains
- Scratchy pine needles
Steps to Protecting Your Hardwood Floors When Using a Real Christmas Tree
- First, make sure the spot where you are going to put the tree is thoroughly clean.
- Next, you will need to add some type of barrier between the floor and the tree stand. The ideal barrier would be a tree stand mat. It is an absorbent mat that’s made to sit under the tree stand. If that is not feasible then a sheet of plastic will be sufficient. A barrier will prevent the water you pour into the tree stand from making contact with the floor and damaging the finish. It will also help to contain the tree’s needles to an extent. *DO NOT use a towel as a barrier, it will absorb & trap the water & moisture, which can cause your hardwood to swell and separate not to mention turn black.
- Then, before carrying the tree into your house shake off all the loose needles that you can.
- Finally, you can secure your tree in the stand and begin the fun part, decorating it.
Here are some bonus tips on protecting your hardwood floors this Christmas:
- Adding a tree skirt will keep the sap from staining your hardwood floor and collect all the fallen needles.
- To keep the needles from scratching your floor you need to use a microfiber mop or hardwood vacuum daily.
- Keep your tree hydrated and you’ll have less needle loss.
- But, don’t go overboard watering your tree or you’ll end up with puddles on your hardwood floor.
- Protecting your hardwood floors when using a real Christmas tree will keep your floor looking great for years to come.