Hardwood flooring is a prize for most homeowners. It is versatile -- accenting both traditional and modern home designs -- and eco-friendly flooring as well. But like any prize, it deserves some special care. Even more so for hardwood flooring, which has several enemies that can do damage over time. Hardwood floors are a durable flooring option, but are by no means infallible. Knowing your enemies, and preventing their subtle takeover will guarantee a long and lustrous life from your hardwoods.

Water is hardwood's biggest enemy. It is the enemy of any wood surface. If you've ever had a water leak you know how crafty water is at getting into nooks and crannies, causing warping, rot, and a loss of luster. The key to water control is

• do wipe up spills immediately
• do not allow standing water
• do not let wet rugs or towels to sit for any length of time
• do not mop a sealed and waxed hardwood floor

Sunshine, if allowed extended, direct contact with the hardwood, can cause discoloration over time. While newer finishes are designed to resist damage from ultraviolet rays, many will turn a yellowish hue that looks rather sickly.

• do use blinds, curtains, drapes to deflect sunlight
• do use area rugs to protect the surface
• do not use rugs that have vinyl or rubber backing that may react with the finish

Furniture, when moved around, can scratch or dent the surface. You'll need to prevent this unless you want highways etched into the flooring.

• do buy some felt glides and attach them to the legs of tables, sofas, and other furniture
• do use non-marking rubber casters or wheels on appropriate furniture
• do not keep any hard plastic or metal casters as they are common causes of scratches and dents

Grit and Dust get picked up or moved around by foot traffic. Even if the floor looks clean, you'll soon be wondering where all these mystery blemishes are coming from. It could be small rocks stuck in a sneaker or the shuffle of hard-soled shoes.

• do sweep the floor regularly
• do use a dust mop or a good broom that will pick up dust rather than just move it around
• do take your shoes off at the door (use a rug or carpet remnant for these areas)
• do not make a habit of wearing high-heeled shoes and others with hard soles on the hardwood

Even though these enemies seem formidable, there is really no reason not to enjoy your hardwood. It just takes a few minutes every week to maintain the floor and a few beneficial habits. Be sure to refinish the floor as necessary and, one more thing, keep your pet's nails trimmed. Fido may hate this little regimen but your hardwood floor will be ever so thankful.