FASHIONABLE AGAIN - STILETTO HEELS

 

High heels, even wedge styles, contain a steel spike to strenghten the heel.  This is equivalent of a nail end.  If the protective end is allowed to wear down the spike becomes exposed.  The shoes can cause indentations and scratches, not only in wood flooring, but also in lense dense materials.  Even carpet, terrazzo, ceramic and metal surfaces can be damaged.

A fully grown elephant exerts a pressure of 50-100psi (pounds per square inch).  An eight and a half stone women can exerts a pressure of as much as 2000 psi.  This is because the weight is so concentrated on a small area, and therefore multiplied many times.

Hardwood manufacturers do not accept damage to floors caused in such a way, nor do flooring installers.  This damage is the result of misuse, not a product fault.

Varnishes and other finishes will NOT protect the wood from this type of damage.  Softer woods will be prone to more damage and should be looked after in an appropriate manner.

Check heels regularly, wear indoor shoes were possible.  Stones and other foreign objects will damage wood floors.  Protect floors by using simple to install felt pads on furniture etc.

A wooden floor will look beautiful for many years with very little maintenance if you take the necessary steps to avoid damage from scratching and scoring.

By changing shoes you will have less dirt in the house, avoiding unecessary cleaning, so making your floor and even easier option.