Rain and your Hardwood Floors

Fall season brings with it some much-needed rain, but how is this affecting your hardwood floors? A lot of moisture can make your hardwood floors expand, and then contract. This process makes the boards cup, crown, crack and buckle, which all have negative effects on your floors. Here are some tips to make sure your flooring lasts.

Remove Shoes

This is key to protecting your floors from moisture. You might also want to put floor mats by entrances in your home as well.

Clean Up Immediately

If moisture does make it onto your floors, be sure to clean it up right away so it does not soak in.

Regulate

Adjust the temperature in your home and humidly based on industry standards so you can control the moisture your floors are exposed to.

Invest in a Moisture Barrier

This is important for installation. It will shield your hardwood floors from moisture below your home.

The Best Ways to Protect Your Hardwood Flooring from Rain

Hardwood floors are a beautiful and durable addition to any home, but they can be susceptible to damage from rain if not properly protected. Rain can cause water to seep into the wood, leading to warping, swelling, and even mold. To protect your hardwood floors from rain, follow these steps:

Prevent Water Intrusion

• Seal the Exterior: Ensure that any exterior openings, such as doors and windows, are properly sealed to prevent rainwater from entering the home.
• Grade the Yard: Make sure your yard slopes away from your home to divert rainwater away from the foundation.
• Install Gutters and Downspouts: Properly functioning gutters and downspouts will channel rainwater away from your home and prevent it from pooling around the foundation.

Protect the Interior

• Use Doormats: Place doormats both inside and outside of exterior doors to catch rainwater and dirt before it’s tracked inside.
• Place Rugs: Use rugs in high-traffic areas, such as near entrances and exits, to protect the floor from moisture and foot traffic.
• Avoid Overwatering: If you have potted plants near your hardwood floors, be careful not to overwater them, as excess water can spill onto the floor.

Respond to Water Damage

• Act Quickly: If water does seep onto your hardwood floors, act quickly to minimize damage. Blot up excess water with clean, absorbent cloths.
• Avoid Walking on Wet Floors: Walking on wet floors can cause the water to penetrate deeper into the wood.
• Contact a Professional: For severe water damage, it’s best to consult with a professional hardwood floor restoration company like Signature Hardwood.

By following these steps, you can help protect your hardwood floors from rain damage and maintain their beauty for years to come.

Don’t let the rain stop you from installing hardwood floors! Contact the hardwood flooring experts at Signature Hardwood Floors for any questions, and a FREE ESTIMATE. You can call us at 410.415.0755 or click here today! You can also follow us on Facebook