Tips to Protect Hardwood Floors from Summer Heat | Enoak
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Tips to Protect Hardwood Floors from Summer Heat

10/20/2022

Australian summers are certainly great times for a lot of fun and recreation with friends and family members. However, at the same time, these days often get marred by extreme heat and humidity. Hardwood floorings are known for their robustness and ability to stand the test of time, but hot climate can pose serious threats to even the best of hardwood floors.  This is why some tried and tested techniques are essential to protect hardwood floors from summer heat in Australia.  

Many of us like the gorgeous look of hardwood floors when sunlight falls on them. However, during the summer time, the intense ultraviolet light can cause a fading effect by breaking down the chemicals present in the wood floor. Over a period of time, the part of the floor around the window may turn lighter. This can spoil the overall appearance of the floor by making it blotchy and uneven.     

High humidity is another serious concern for hardwood floors during the summer season. Compared to cold air, warm air is capable of holding more moisture. If this additional humidity is not regulated properly, hardwood floors can start expanding by absorbing the moisture. This often leads to issues such as cupping and warping. In most instances, this effect gets corrected on its own as soon as the humidity drops to normal levels. However, in extreme cases, permanent damage to the floor is possible.   

Here are a few ways to protect your floor from direct sun damage and moisture.  

  • Those living in the hotter areas of the country are accustomed to keeping their blinds closed during the day time. This not only keeps the home clean, but also protects hardwood floors in the home. This is particularly important for windows that allow direct sunlight throughout most of the day. 
  • It is possible to minimise UV and infrared light entering the room by using low-e windows made of a specific type of glass. Low-e glass is the most effective way to protect the hardwood flooring around a window from untimely fading.  These windows can also keep your house cooler during the sultry summer days.  
  • Direct sunlight can also be restricted from entering your living space by coating your existing windows with films. Venetian blinds can also be a good option for shielding your floors from sunlight.
  • Dehumidification is probably the best alternative to protect hardwood floors from excess humidity. Dehumidifiers can eliminate excess airborne moisture by absorbing them. In rooms with hardwood flooring, the ideal level of humidity is between 35% and 55%. A hygrometer or humidistat can be used to determine the humidity levels in your room.  
  • The level of moisture inside a room can also increase significantly after summer rains, if the room is poorly insulated. Carry out a thorough inspection of the insulation areas to identify any gaps or holes and fill them up using a foam spray.   

It is true that summer heat and humidity can be a serious threat for hardwood floors. However, there is no need to panic because you can protect your floor using these common-sense steps. If you have any questions related to the upkeep of your hardwood flooring, please contact our experts at Enoak.