In order to care for wooden floors properly, you need some understanding of the way they're made. Hardwood floors start out rough (figure A). After the pieces are planed for a smooth finish, a tongue and groove are cut into their sides (figure B). Parquet floors (figure C) are made with much the same process. Engineered floors (figure D) are created from several layers of wood veneer pressed tightly together. One advantage of engineered floors is that they can be laid directly on top of concrete slabs. The finish on your floor will partly determine the best method of floor care. In general you can care for waxed wood floors in much the same way you care for those coated in polyurethane -- but there are some differences. Waxed floors should be cleaned with a cleaning/waxing compound that lifts out dirt and adds a coat of fresh wax. Polyurethane-coated floors should be cleaned with vinegar and water. First, though, you'll need to know whether your floor is covered with wax or polyurethane. To find out, drip some water onto the floor. If the water beads and stays on top of the floor, you're probably dealing with polyurethane; if it soaks in after a few minutes, the floor is probably coated with wax. Another way to tell is to wipe the floor with a rag dampened with mineral spirits. If the floor is waxed, the cloth will develop a waxy feel.
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