The Most Common Hardwood Flooring Issues | Hardwood Floors | Charlotte NC

HOW TO CLEAN DARK HARDWOOD FLOORING

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WOODEN FLOORS

The stunning appearance and durability of hardwood floors make them the best option for your home. However, wooden floors receive a tremendous amount of abuse, and they require a considerable investment in materials and labor.

Therefore, in this article, your trusted experts on hardwood floors in Charlotte, NC, list some common hardwood flooring issues.

CUPPING Cupping is a typical problem that occurs when hardwood floors are installed over a wet basement or crawlspace. The phenomenon of cupping happens when the bottom of a board is wetter than the top and its edges cup. Cupping is the result of the vapor that emerges from lower house parts and subfloors, and the best option to prevent this problem is by installing a vapor retarder between the subfloor to slow moisture.

OTHER FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH CUPPING

Other factors that lead to cupping are associated with excessive subfloor moisture, household leaks, floods, and large spills. In this way, the best measure is prevention and keeping your plumbing well-maintained and proper drainage systems.

CRACKS AND LARGE GAPS BETWEEN BOARDS

Low humidity levels are also harmful to hardwood floors. During winter days, and homes are heated in the winter, relative humidity levels can drop, and boards can shrink. In this process, gaps between boards become wider, It is important to monitor the house’s temperature and humidity level and install a humidifier in the heating appliance.

DISCOLORATION Over time, hardwood floors may experience color changes, and you will notice some areas darker than the others on the floor. UV rays have harmful consequences on a variety of materials, including wood. Direct exposure to sunlight can be a primary cause of discoloration or fading of floors. For this reason, the best recommendation is to block sunlight with an adequate window treatment and keep your windows closed to prevent discoloration and fading to your floors.

CRACKS AND FRACTURES

Cracks occur when the wood boards are fractured suddenly. In this context, “cracking” in wood floors is associated with seasonal factors when there are quick moisture changes in the environment. Often, fractures already exist, and the best solution is to use adapters for nailers while installing the floors to prevent them from forcing the wooden surface.

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