Hardwood flooring is one of the most practical and popular forms of home improvements today that offer the luxury of choice. They not only add style but also adds great aesthetic appeal and provides an air of class and elegance. However, proper care and maintenance is needed especially during seasonal changes for preserving the beauty of your wooden floors. Even the most carefully installed wood floors tend to expand and sometimes cup or even buckle due to high moisture content and high relative humidity in the air. Here, we give you some tips to maintain hard wood flooring.
Tip 1: Protect flooring from sunlight
Due to the natural qualities of the wood, sunlight can quickly damage or discolor this type of flooring. If your current windows are not equipped with the proper coverage, it may be wise to get new drapes or shades installed. Rule of thumb is to protect your floors from the sun when applicable, so close your curtains and blinds before you head out for the day to avoid unnecessary exposure.
Tip 2: Control indoor humidity levels
During the summer months, hardwood flooring can move as changes in humidity occur. If your floor planks are swelling over the summer a small amount, don’t be alarmed. If you have major shifting or floor swelling occurring, call a professional to see if it’s a bigger problem. You can control the humidity levels by maintaining air conditioning systems, watching for spills and leaks and installing a dehumidifier.
Tip 3: Ensure proper floor maintenance
The summer brings about the time when people are most enjoying the great outdoors, and more likely to trek in dirt, mud, outdoor allergens, and other contaminants back inside more often than during any other season. It’s a good idea to place floor mats by all entrances. You may also want to kindly ask family and visitors to kindly wipe their shoes before stepping on your beautiful hardwood floors. If spills occur or dirt makes its way in, vacuum right away. Vacuuming is preferable to sweeping because it allows the dirt and dust to be pulled from between the boards.
