Hardwood flooring remains a popular choice for homes of all sizes, outlasting the latest home décor trends and improving the value of homes across the country. Consumers should consider this type of flooring as a lifetime investment, but performance, durability, and appearance depend on product quality and installation methods. Be sure you know what to expect from your newly installed hardwood floor, and how to extend the life of this beautiful feature.
Durability
Hardwood floors are susceptible to scratches, dents, and surface abrasions caused by foot traffic, pets, and the movement of heavy objects like furniture and appliances. The term “hardwood” refers to the type of tree used to make the planks, specifically broad-leafed dicotyledonous species.
For example, pine is a soft wood commonly used in furniture and outdoor applications, while basswood, though technically a hardwood, is softer than pine.
When choosing hardwood for your space, consider the amount of traffic the area will experience and whether moisture could be a concern. While selecting the right species can help reduce dents, all hardwood floors will show some wear over time.
Humidity
The air in your home contains moisture, which can impact hardwood floors. Both hardwood and engineered wood floors are hygroscopic, meaning they naturally absorb and release moisture as humidity levels fluctuate. This causes the planks to expand and contract over time.
During winter or in environments with low humidity due to heating, you may notice small gaps between the planks as the wood contracts. Wider planks may create larger gaps. When the wood expands, it can put pressure on the edges of the flooring, which is why your installer should leave a small gap around the perimeter to accommodate natural movement and prevent issues like buckling, crowning, or cupping. To help maintain a stable environment for your floors, use a humidifier in the winter and a dehumidifier in the summer, aiming to keep the relative humidity between 35% and 65%.
Finish and Appearance
Light and air naturally change the color of hardwood flooring over time. Keep this in mind when arranging furniture and rugs, and consider moving rugs and low furniture periodically to prevent uneven fading or darkening. Some types of hardwood flooring are less sensitive to sunlight and air exposure, but even these will eventually show signs of this natural process.
Always use cleaners specifically recommended by the hardwood manufacturer. Water or diluted cleaners can damage the urethane coating and may cause issues when refinishing the floor later.
It’s also important to remember that wood used for flooring is different from wood used in furniture. Even high-quality flooring planks may have blemishes, checking, or mineral streaking. This is normal, as flooring is intended to be admired from a distance of four to five feet.
While your new hardwood flooring will offer impressive durability, a classic look, and an upscale style, keep in mind that it will be influenced by the environment it’s in.