Hard floors are easier to clean than carpets and can be a cost-effective solution for busy families. But using the wrong type of cleaning products or tools could damage your flooring if it’s not sealed.
Wondering whether you’ve got a sealed floor? We’ll explain how to identify your flooring type to help you keep it looking fresh for years to come.
What Is a Sealed Hard Floor?
A sealed floor is a hard floor with a protective finish or coating that helps resist moisture and staining by acting as a barrier on the surface. Sealing can make everyday cleaning easier because spills tend to sit on top for longer, rather than soaking straight in.
Wood and concrete flooring are often sealed with oil, water or solvent-based treatments to help repel dirt, water and debris. Today, water-resistant lino and PVC flooring are also common, making them ideal for areas like hallways and kitchens.
However, sealing only lasts so long. For example:
- Water could damage flooring if it was poorly installed.
- Protective seal layers may wear faster in high-traffic areas like hallways.
- Floors will eventually need to be resealed over time.
If you have tiled, luxury vinyl tile (LVT) or other floors with joins or grout, they may be vulnerable to water damage from steam, moisture or spills.
Some surfaces should never be steam cleaned because heat and moisture can cause damage. Always match your cleaning method to your specific floor and finish, and check with the manufacturer if you are unsure.
Which Floors Are Usually Sealed?
If you are trying to work out whether your home counts as “sealed hard floor” territory, here is a helpful starting point.
Usually Sealed (or Commonly Sold with a Sealed Finish)
- Ceramic and porcelain tiles – The tile surface is usually non-porous, but grout can vary and may be sealed separately.
- Sealed natural stone – Marble, slate, limestone and travertine are naturally porous and often need sealing to resist staining.
- Sealed hardwood and engineered wood – Typically finished with lacquer, varnish, oil or a protective coating.
- Sealed concrete – Often treated to resist moisture and marks.
- Vinyl flooring – Including sheet vinyl, LVT and LVP, commonly with a protective wear layer on top.
Important: “Usually sealed” does not mean “safe for every cleaning method.” Finishes wear over time, and moisture can still creep into seams, grout lines and edges. Always follow your flooring manufacturer’s care guidance.
How to Determine Whether Your Floor Is Sealed
Whether your floor is marble, tile, wood, concrete or laminate, you can perform a simple water drop test:
- Pour a few drops of water onto the floor.
- If the water beads on the surface, the floor likely has a protective seal.
- If the water absorbs into the material, it may not be sealed or may need resealing.
Extra tip: Test a few spots, especially high-traffic areas like hallways or near sinks, as finishes can wear unevenly.
Tips for Maintaining Your Sealed Hard Floor
- Avoid using excess water when cleaning and mop up spills quickly.
- Trim your pet’s nails to reduce scuffs and scratches.
- Use microfibre or steam mops only if recommended by your flooring manufacturer.
- Regularly sweep or vacuum to remove grit and debris.
- Avoid ammonia or vinegar on wood flooring, as they can damage finishes.
- Wear soft slippers indoors and ask guests to remove shoes.
- Check with your flooring manufacturer or fitter if you are unsure about cleaning methods.
A Quick Note on Steam and “Sealed” Floors
If you are planning to steam clean, “sealed” is key. Heat and moisture can cause damage to unsuitable materials or worn finishes.
- If your floor is unsealed, worn or uncertain, avoid steam cleaning.
- Use a well-wrung microfibre mop instead.
- Follow manufacturer-approved cleaning methods.
FAQs
Can You Use a Steam Mop on LVT?
In many cases, it is not recommended. LVT often relies on adhesives or click systems and can have seams where heat and moisture may cause issues over time.
If your LVT manufacturer does not explicitly approve steam, stick to vacuuming and a well-wrung microfibre mop with a manufacturer-approved cleaner.
Are Laminate Floors Sealed?
Laminate floors usually have a protective wear layer on top, but the joins and edges can still be vulnerable if moisture gets in. Avoid excess water and follow the manufacturer’s cleaning advice.