Wood Flooring Tips

Wood's Acclimation:

The point of acclimating wood flooring before installing it is to allow the moisture content of the wood to adjust to "normal living conditions" at the site - that is the temperature and humidity conditions that will typically be experienced once the structure is occupied.

Thus, it does no good at all. In fact, it is likely harmful to store wood flooring at the jobsite under conditions that don't reflect those normal environmental conditions. In truth, some wood flooring may already be at the proper  moisture content when it is delivered. To allow it to sit at the jobsite under excessively humid conditions will only cause the flooring to absorb unwanted moisture.

For The Customer:

In a comfortable home with slight humidity variations through the seasons, wood flooring responds by expanding and contracting. These changes may be noticeable. During warm, humid weather, wood expands. During dry weather, wood contracts. This seasonal movement is a normal characteristic of wood flooring and it never stops- regardless of the age of  the wood.

Cracks in the winter and drier months may easily develop to the thickness of a dime (1/32 inch) for solid 2-1/4" wide strip oak floors.

The cure for cracks? Homeowners should add moisture to the air during dry periods. It's their choice- live with the cracks and wait until spring or else add humidty  by opening the dishwasher after a rinse cycle or hang laundry to dry in the basement near the furnace. Better yet, install a humidifier in the furnace.

Preventive Wood Floor Care & Maintenance:

Hardwood flooring, unlike other types of flooring, can be kept looking new, regardless of wear, with a minimum amount of effort. To protect against damage, just follow some basic, common-sense guidlines.

PROTECT YOUR FLOOR WITH RUGS AND MATS
Don't allow dirt and grit to be tracked on your floor. Place door mats at all door entrances to trap dirt.

USE FURNITURE PROTECTORS
To avoid scratching and damaging the wood floor's surface, place self-adhesive felt pads on chair and table legs.

WOOD AND WATER DON'T MIX
Never allow water to stand on a hardwood floor for any length of time. Also don't ever pour water on your wood floor. A slightly damp mop or rag may be used for clean up.

MOVE AREA RUGS REGULARLY
When exposed to ultraviolet (sun) light, wood's natural oxidizing properties can cause the color of your floor and finish to change, taking on an age-worn patina. To keep a consistent color across your floor, rotate area rugs on a regular basis and use window coverings to protect against sun exposure.