Most Common Causes of Damage to Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood floors are a staple in homes with various styles. While this flooring material is relatively durable, it’s still sensitive to wear and tear over time. Knowing what problems to look out for is essential for getting the most out of your investment. For homeowners looking to protect their reclaimed wood home additions, here are the most common causes of damage to hardwood flooring.

Water Damage

Water is possibly your antique wood floor’s worst enemy. Excess moisture can warp your materials and cause unsightly issues like cupping, crowning, and buckling. Water sitting beneath your floorboards creates the perfect environment for mold, which could cause a significant health hazard to your household. Check your appliances for leaks often, clean up spills immediately, and seek professional help to dry out your flooring to avoid any of these problems.

Sunlight Exposure

Another common cause of damage to hardwood flooring is sunlight. Direct exposure to the sun leaves your reclaimed wood vulnerable to harsh UV rays that harm your materials. Signs of sun damage include uneven fading and discoloration, especially in areas near windows and other light sources. The best way to protect your floors from harmful sunlight exposure is by using drapes or UV blocking materials to create a barrier between harsh rays and your flooring material.

Elevated Humidity

Warmer climates usually have high humidity levels that can produce excess moisture your floors will likely absorb. This moisture can and often will cause the same kind of damage that other water sources do, so be sure to acclimate your materials to avoid any significant problems. You can also use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air. Doing so will prevent your antique wood floors from reacting poorly to your environment.

High Traffic

Your floors see lots of action, but some areas take on more damage than others. These “high-traffic” areas sustain harm more often than under-utilized spaces since they’re vulnerable to heavier impacts. High heels, pet nails, and furniture legs can scratch, scuff, and stain your reclaimed wood flooring. Once these marks arise, they can be difficult to correct. Protect these spaces with rugs and runners, and be sure to perform maintenance to strengthen your flooring materials.

Improper Installation

Improper installation will set you and your hardwood floors up for failure in the long run. That’s why it’s so important to use reliable reclaimed flooring suppliers like Benedict Antique Lumber. We have the knowledge and resources necessary to do the job correctly the first time so that you can rest easy. Avoid the hassle of making repairs down the line, and contact us for a quote today!