Hardwood floors are a stunning and classic addition to any house. Full of natural warmth and charm, hardwood can help elevate your space with a timeless elegance that’s sure to create the perfect sense of home! Knowing how to care for your floors will help extend the life of your planks and ensure they look fresh for the years to come. It’s also important to be aware of issues that may arise over time or with improper installation. Below are six common issues to keep an eye for.
1. Abnormal Gaps
While all hardwood planks will have some degree of spacing between them, gaps that are too large, or even too small, can cause significant problems over time. Being spaced too far apart may leave your planks susceptible to water damage, whereas planks that are too close to one another may lead to warping or cracking. If you believe your flooring has inconsistent gaps, you should have it evaluated as soon as possible.
2. Cupping/Warping
Typically caused by water damage or prolonged exposure to moisture, cupping and warping refers to the slight sag or contortion of your planks. This is a particularly serious issue, because left untreated, the damage may be irreversible and even allow dangerous mould to develop.
3. Buckling
When wood flooring because moist, or are placed in a way that does not accommodate the natural shrinking and expanding of planks during the seasons, buckling can occur. Buckling can cause serious damage to your flooring if left unchecked, and should be evaluated early on.
4. Peeling Finish
Over time, you may find that the finish of your floors begins wear away and peel. To fix this issue, sanding and refinishing may be your best option.
5. Excessive Signs Of Wear
Without proper care, your hardwood can show progressive signs of age that leave it vulnerable to further damage. Scuffs, dents, chips and more should be kept in check and effort should be made to prevent abrasion from occurring in the first place.
6. Stains
There are typically two types of stains that can occur on wood surfaces: those that rest on top of the floor finish and that can be removed with a gentle cleanser, and those that have moved deep enough that they require sanding to eliminate. Stay on top of dirt and grim build up, as well as mopping up any spills to reduce your risks of stains.
Want to learn more about caring for hardwood floors or integrating them into your home? Contact our team in Edmonton today!