Hardwood floors are a beautiful and timeless addition to any home, but they require extra care and attention during summer. High temperatures, humidity, and increased foot traffic can damage these natural surfaces and wood floor refinishing. Follow these tips to keep your hardwood floors looking their best all summer.
Minimize Sun Exposure
Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause significant damage to hardwood floors. Over time, the ultraviolet rays in sunlight can cause the wood floor refinishing to fade, discolor, or become dry and brittle. To protect your hardwood floors, it’s important to take steps to limit their exposure to direct sunlight.
One effective way to do this is by using window treatments, such as curtains or blinds, to control the amount of sunlight entering the room. By adjusting the window treatments, especially during peak sunlight hours, you can help prevent excessive sunlight from hitting and potentially damaging the floors.
Additionally, using area rugs or rearranging furniture can also help shield the floors from direct sunlight. These simple precautions can go a long way in preserving the natural beauty and quality of your hardwood floors for years to come.
Control Humidity Levels
Excessive humidity can cause hardwood floors to swell, cup, or crown, while low humidity can lead to shrinking, cracking, or splitting, adversely affecting the aesthetic appeal and structural integrity of the flooring.
To preserve the longevity and quality of hardwood floors, it is crucial to maintain optimal indoor humidity levels, typically between 30% and 50%. In regions where humidity levels fluctuate significantly, the use of a dehumidifier or humidifier is recommended to regulate indoor humidity as needed.
By proactively managing the indoor environment, homeowners can minimize the potential for moisture-related damage to their hardwood floors, ensuring that they remain in top condition for years to come. Regular monitoring and prompt adjustments to humidity levels can help prevent costly repairs and preserve the natural beauty of hardwood flooring.
Sweep and Clean Regularly
With more foot traffic and outdoor activities during the summer, your hardwood floors are likely to accumulate dirt, dust, and debris more quickly. Sweep or vacuum frequently to remove these particles, which can scratch or dull the surface over time.
Avoid Excessive Moisture
Water can pose a significant threat to hardwood floors, making it crucial to take precautions when cleaning or mopping. One should be mindful to avoid leaving wet mats, towels, or spills on the floor for extended periods, as this can lead to warping or staining. It’s important to promptly wipe up any moisture to prevent these issues from occurring.
Excessive exposure to water can cause irreparable damage to hardwood floors, making it essential to maintain a vigilant approach when dealing with spills or cleaning. Additionally, using a slightly damp mop and promptly drying the floor can help minimize the risks associated with water exposure.
By taking these preventive measures, one can prolong the life and beauty of their hardwood floors, ensuring they remain in optimal condition for years to come.
Protect from Scratches
Rearrange furniture and use felt pads or coasters to prevent scratches from heavy or sharp objects. Trim your pets’ nails regularly to minimize scratches from their claws, and consider using area rugs in high-traffic areas for added protection.
