Regardless of the finish a hardwood floor will lose its luster if exposed to water. Mopping with a floor cleaner can result in chemical damage to the surface, and even warping.

Wood floor cleaners that contain oil should never be used on floors coated with a thick layer of polyurethane. The oil will create a sticky residue that will turn white over time, and will combine with dust and secretions from feet and pets until a black grunge collects along seams, edges, and under furniture.

Do not mop sealed-and-waxed floors, not even with a slightly damp mop. Do not use furniture polish like Pledge on the floor.

Dirt, dust and grit will dull and scratch a hardwood floor. However, dragging a vacuum over the floor will also cause damage. The new types of floor mops with a flat surface that is covered by a soft fabric are perfect for hardwood floors.

Doormats and area rugs placed at the entrances of the home, under tables, where pets sleep, under places where children play, and high traffic areas will trap most of the dirt and grit, but only if they are cleaned regularly. If they are not cleaned often they will become giant scour pads, damaging the floor's surface every time someone walks across the rug.

Avoid throw rugs with rubber or vinyl backing unless it has been approved for hardwood floors. There can be a chemical reaction between the rug backing and the floor, the backing can also facilitate mold growth.

The main enemy of hardwood floors is the sun. Ultraviolet radiation in the sunlight can cause discoloration over time. The ultraviolet rays that burn and age skin will damage any organic material, including wood.

Extended exposure to the sunlight will alter the color of any wood floor, the stain, or a polyurethane coating will not protect the floor. The new water-based urethane finishes do slow the rate of damage more effectively than oil-based urethane finishes, which turn brownish-yellow over time. Some new finishes include a sunscreen to block the ultraviolet rays, extending the life of the floor.

Another way to protect floors from the sun is to use sheers, especially ones that block the sun, over windows. This may be disheartening for many decorators who are enthralled by large banks of open windows that eliminate the barriers between the indoor and outdoor world.

There are some common sense tips to prolong the beauty of a hardwood floor. Removing shoes, and wearing slippers, will protect the floor's surface. High heels will pit the plastic surface of a floor. These dents will not appear at first, but time and wear will make the dents apparent. Shoes will also pick up small grains of dirt that will scratch the floor's finish.

A little care and thought will extend the life of a floor for years.