Installing hardwood floors in rooms with large windows can be a tremendous aesthetic choice. The problem is that the longer your floors are exposed to sunlight, the more likely they are to fade.
Installing hardwood floors in rooms with large windows can be a tremendous aesthetic choice. The problem is that the longer your floors are exposed to sunlight, the more likely they are to fade. But that isn’t the only thing that will affect your hardwood. Here are some other reasons your floors aren’t looking their best and what you can do about it.
Moisture
Even in the fall and winter, moisture can still affect your hardwood floors. There can still be humidity in the air outside, especially if you run your heater inside the house. If you use a dehumidifier in your basement, you can look at all of the water that collects in the drain pan. It’s incredibly easy to prevent moisture damage from more mundane sources though – if there’s a spill from water, tea, coffee, wine, or anything else, clean it up as soon as possible. If you have hardwood in your kitchen or bathroom, then be prepared to deal with water damage from sinks faucets, shower heads, and even toilets.
Heat
We know what you’re thinking: “how can heat be a problem when it’s cold outside?” For one thing, you still need to keep warm during the fall and winter, so you’d probably respond by building a fire in your fireplace or turning up the thermostat in your home. Sunlight is the most common culprit of heat damage, though. While there’s less daylight in the fall now, it doesn’t stop direct sunlight from harming your floors.
Direct Sunlight
Ultraviolet rays enter your home through beams of sunlight. We can’t see them, but they’re there. You need to equip your windows with special screens that can filter out UV rays that will damage your floors and make it easier on your eyes.
Prevention
Use Low-Emission coating on your windows. That can make a noticeable difference, too.
Repairs
Most of the time, it’s the finish on the flooring that has faded, not the floorboard itself. All you need to do is remove the old finish and put on a new layer in its place. This process involves sanding, so you might want to rely on professional expertise. Still, with a few helpers, you will be able to do it on your own as well. Just be sure that the new coat of finish matches the finish of the other boards around it.
Ready for a Beautiful Hardwood Floor? You Can Trust John K Eareckson & Co.!
When you work with John K Eareckson & Co. Flooring, we will ensure your hardwood floors undergo a stress-free acclimation process and that they sparkle for years to come. From a seamless and beautiful installation to years of maintenance, John K Eareckson & Co. Flooring has the expertise to care for your home’s hardwood floors. For a consultation and more information visit us online or give us a call at 410-788-4200. You can also look for us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, YouTube, and Flickr.