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How to Keep Rocking Chairs From Damaging Hard Wood Floors

Marlene Affeld

Historically, hardwood floors have been used to add durability, warmth and decorative interest to homes around the world. Depending on the hardwood used, these beautiful floors are subject to damage from furniture movement or items that are dragged across the floor.

The repetitive movement of a rocking chair can be one of the biggest culprits. However, with a bit of effort and a few common items, you can keep your rocking chair from marking your lovely flooring.

  1. Turn the rocking chair upside down to access the rockers. Clean the bottom of the rockers of grime and grit. Allow the surfaces to dry.

  2. Measure the length and width of the rockers and cut strips of felt to size.

  3. Use an adhesive designed to bond felt to the material of the rockers. Different glues are available for wood, plastic or metal. (You can choose to use strips of thin cork or foam instead of felt.)

  4. Secure the felt in place with the adhesive. Allow the adhesive to dry thoroughly prior to use. (You may also purchase self-adhesive felt strips or dots at many fine furniture stores.)

  5. Tip

    Inspect the rockers periodically to make sure the felt remains in place. Add felt to the floor-contact parts of any furniture that is subject to movement. Apply it to the bases of dining table legs and chair legs. When moving furniture or equipment on hardwood floors, always place it on a pad or use a rubber-tired furniture dolly to move the item.