Rain, sleet, and snow all accompany the change in seasons around this time of year. All three of these sources of moisture can ruin the hardwood floors inside of your home.
Winter is almost here. The closer we get to the winter solstice, the colder the days will be. Rain, sleet, and snow all accompany the change in seasons around this time of year. All three of these sources of moisture can ruin the hardwood floors inside of your home. Here is a look at how mother nature affects one of the most beautiful parts of your home.
Snow Isn’t the Only Culprit
During the winter, everyone expects snow to be two things: either fun or a nuisance. While the snow usually doesn’t stick on the ground during early winter in Maryland, that doesn’t mean much if you walk inside with snow still on your shoes. Plus, once December gives way to January and February, this is when we can expect to see much more significant snowfalls than in December.
Rock Salt
Rock salt can also damage your home’s hardwood floors. This substance is typically used to melt snow so that it doesn’t make sidewalks and driveways as hazardous to traverse. Even so, rock salt is abrasive enough to eat through the gorgeous finish on your floorboards. Eventually, your floors will be left exposed to the ravages of moisture damage. Consequently, you might see other associated issues such as cupping, warping, and staining.
Ice
Where there are snow and rock salt, you can probably also find ice. Even when you are careful about where you step while shoveling or are out admiring all the pretty lights, ice crystals can still sneak into your home. Once brought onto your hardwood, the pieces of ice can leave behind scratches. This problem also affects vinyl flooring. Then the ice melting will continue to present slipping and tripping hazards, even if your floors are laminate instead.
Sand
Sometimes, sand is used as an alternative to rock salt when harsh winter weather is in the forecast. The reason for this is that sand can also help prevent the snow from sticking to roads and making them impassable. Sand can also discourage the formation of black ice and other potential wintertime hazards that you might not be able to see, especially at night. If the sand can do that to the snow outside, imagine what it can do to your wood inside!
Ready for a Beautiful Hardwood Floor? 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, Twitter, YouTube, and Flickr.