1.   And those warm, wonderful wood surfaces need area rugs to define spaces, cut down on noise and prevent foot traffic from carving paths through the house.

2.   As a rule, plastered surfaces do not need priming or applying an enamel undercoater.

3.   A varnished surface does not need polishing or waxing.

4.   Older surfaces may need more work, particularly if they are painted.

5.   The surface does need periodic brushing, but that still keeps maintenance costs low.