How to Protect Your Hardwood Flooring Over the Summer
Sand Is Bad
Even though Nicki Minaj encourages us all to go to the “beach, each” this summer, sand from the waterfront can do some serious damage to your floors. If you plan to go straight home after spending a day getting your tan on, make sure you leave your sandals outside or in a basket by your front door. If you have children and they brought toys to the beach, make sure those are kept outside, too. To take extra precautions, vacuum after every beach day trip even if you’ve taken your shoes off before coming inside the house. You never know what might have found its way inside. It’s also a good idea to vacuum your vinyl flooring, laminate flooring, and carpet as sand is something that shouldn’t be in the home in general.
UV Rays Aren’t Only Damaging to Your Skin
During the summer months, UV ray exposure becomes more dangerous to your floors. The sunlight can discolor your flooring and even bleach your wood stain. Woods like American cherry are especially susceptible to sunlight damage as they darken over time with UV exposure. To prevent this from happening, keep your curtains closed during the day, especially when the sunlight is brightest.
The Weather Can Move Your Flooring
As the weather gets warmer and if you have plain saw flooring, you might start to notice the plank’s swelling. This is because wood is hygroscopic (it absorbs and releases moisture when the environment changes). Overall this isn’t a major problem. But if you start to notice a significant amount of growth or warping, reach out to your flooring professional as soon as possible.
The National Association of Realtors says 54% of home buyers were willing to pay more for a home with hardwood flooring. Even though many of us love the way sunlight looks on authentic hardwood floors, it’s important to keep your flooring protected.
