Hardwood floors are incredibly low maintenance. Caring for hardwood floors is simple, requiring nothing more than a damp cloth or a soft-bristled broom. However, there are a few things you want to avoid to protect hardwood floors from environmental threats.
Protecting hardwood from the sun
Protect hardwood floors from sunlight.
The sun is one of the biggest threats to your hardwood floors. Too much direct sunlight can change the color of the floor, leaving your hardwood floors patchy. Although hardwood floors age beautifully, you want them to age consistently. Direct sunlight may age your floors prematurely in some areas.
Rugs and shade
To avoid sun damage to your hardwood floors, get shades and blinds to help minimize UV exposure. Moving the furniture around periodically will also prevent your floors from discoloration due to exposure to sunlight. Area rugs can also help protect your floors.
Protecting hardwood from temperature changes
Colorado is famous for having four glorious seasons, but with every season comes a new climate. Hardwood floors are very susceptible to changes in the indoor climate, so when the temperature and moisture levels shift, your floors will react. Not allowing your floors to contract and expand can eventually cause permanent damage.
Control indoor climate
You can control the indoor climate by having great ventilation and insulation. Preventing the temperature and the moisture in your home from drastic changes will protect your hardwood floors.
Protect your floors from dirt
Protect your floors with a “no shoes” policy.
Shoes can track in all types of dirt that can get ground into your floors and leave them permanently damaged. Your shoes can also pick up sharp objects that can penetrate past the finish of the floors and leave an opening for more serious problems. If the finish get’s damaged, your floors are more susceptible to water and moisture that can seep deep into the wood. Shoes can also track in moisture, along with dirt and debris.
“No Shoes” policy
Adopting a “no shoes” policy in your home will help protect your hardwood floors. Shoes are a triple threat, as they can carry the debris that can pierce the floor finish, plus the dirt and moisture to seep into the wood and cause permanent damage.
T&G Flooring is one of the biggest hardwood flooring retailers in Colorado. Get advise on the best hardwood floors for you, as well as, how to protect your hardwood floors from the elements.