Cover hardwood floors with protective layers before moving day to avoid scratches and maintain their pristine condition during the relocation process.
Moving to a new home is an exciting milestone, but the process can be daunting, especially when it comes to safeguarding your prized hardwood floors from scratches and dents.
Whether you’re enlisting the help of the best Calgary movers or tackling the move yourself, taking the proper precautions is crucial to ensure your floors remain in pristine condition.
The Importance of Hardwood Floor Protection
Hardwood floors are not only a beautiful addition to any home, but they also add value and a touch of elegance.
However, their susceptibility to scratches and dents during a move can quickly diminish their appeal and longevity.
Even the slightest scrape from a heavy piece of furniture or a misplaced box can leave unsightly marks that are difficult and costly to repair.
Step 1: Clear the Path
Before you begin the moving process, ensure that your floors are clear of any obstacles. This includes:
- Removing area rugs
- Relocating potted plants
- Clearing any loose items on the floor
By creating a clear path, you minimize the risk of tripping hazards and make it easier for movers to navigate your home safely.
Step 2: Invest in Floor Protection Materials
Investing in proper floor protection materials is crucial to ensure your hardwood floors remain unscathed during the move. Here are some essential items to consider:
Protective Floor Coverings
- Corrugated cardboard rolls: These provide a temporary, cost-effective barrier between your floors and heavy furniture or boxes.
- Ram boards: Designed specifically for moving, ram boards are thick, durable, and reusable coverings that offer superior protection against scratches and dents.
Floor Runners
Floor runners are long, thick strips of material that create a safe pathway for heavy items to be transported across your hardwood floors.
They are typically made of durable materials like plastic or reinforced fabric and can be easily rolled out and removed as needed.
Step 3: Prepare and Protect High-Traffic Areas
Certain areas of your home, such as entryways, hallways, and staircases, are more prone to foot traffic and potential damage during the moving process. Take extra precautions in these areas by:
- Laying down thick cardboard or ram boards
- Using floor runners to create a protected pathway
- Placing furniture sliders under heavy pieces to prevent dragging and scratching
Step 4: Enlist the Help of Professional Movers
While you can certainly take on the task of protecting your hardwood floors during a move, enlisting the services of professional movers like the best Calgary movers can provide an added layer of security. Reputable moving companies:
- Employ trained and experienced staff
- Use proper techniques for lifting and transporting heavy items
- Provide their floor protection materials and equipment
By working with the best Calgary movers, you can have peace of mind knowing that your hardwood floors are in capable hands.
Step 5: Supervise and Communicate
Even with the proper precautions in place, it’s essential to supervise the moving process and communicate your concerns to the movers.
Don’t hesitate to point out areas that require extra care or provide specific instructions for handling fragile or valuable items.
Post-Move Cleanup and Maintenance
Once the move is complete, it’s crucial to remove any protective coverings promptly to prevent moisture buildup or discoloration on your hardwood floors.
Inspect the floors for any scratches or dents and address them immediately using appropriate repair methods.
Regular cleaning and maintenance are also essential to keep your hardwood floors looking their best.
Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris, and use a hardwood floor cleaner specifically designed for your floor type.
