How Seasonal Changes Affect Hardwood Flooring and What You Can Do About It

How Seasonal Changes Affect Hardwood Flooring and What You Can Do About It


Hardwood flooring is a timeless and elegant choice for any home. However, its natural composition makes it susceptible to seasonal changes. Understanding how these shifts impact your floors and what preventive measures you can take ensures your hardwood flooring remains beautiful and functional for years to come.


How seasonal changes impact hardwood flooring

Hardwood flooring, being a natural product, reacts to environmental changes, particularly fluctuations in temperature and humidity. Here’s a breakdown of how each season can affect your floors:

Winter: Shrinking and gaps

During colder months, the air becomes drier due to indoor heating. This lack of humidity causes hardwood to lose moisture, leading to contraction. As a result, you may notice small gaps forming between the planks. While these gaps are usually temporary, they can be concerning for homeowners unfamiliar with this natural process.

Summer: Expanding and cupping

In contrast, summer brings higher humidity levels, which cause hardwood flooring to absorb moisture and expand. This can lead to cupping, where the edges of the planks rise above the center. Excessive expansion can also cause the flooring to push against walls, potentially leading to buckling if there’s no room for the wood to expand.

Spring and Fall: Seasonal transitions

The transitional seasons of spring and fall often bring fluctuating humidity levels. These constant changes can cause the wood to expand and contract more frequently, leading to stress on the flooring over time. While these shifts are less severe than in winter or summer, they still require attention to prevent damage.


Why humidity matters for hardwood flooring

Humidity is the primary factor affecting hardwood flooring throughout the year. Ideally, indoor humidity levels should remain between 35% and 55% to keep hardwood stable. Levels outside this range can exacerbate seasonal issues.

Low humidity problems

Prolonged exposure to low humidity can dry out hardwood, causing cracks and permanent damage over time. Even the toughest finishes cannot fully protect wood from the effects of extremely dry air.

High humidity problems

Excess moisture can penetrate the wood, leading to swelling, warping, or even mold growth. High humidity is particularly concerning in coastal areas or homes without proper ventilation.


How to protect your hardwood flooring from seasonal changes

Maintaining the beauty and durability of your hardwood flooring requires proactive measures. Here are practical steps to shield your floors from seasonal wear and tear:

Invest in a humidifier or dehumidifier

To regulate indoor humidity levels, consider using a humidifier during winter and a dehumidifier in the summer. These devices help stabilize the environment, preventing the wood from reacting dramatically to changes in moisture levels.

Use proper window coverings

Sunlight can also impact hardwood flooring, particularly in the summer. Intense UV rays can dry out wood and cause discoloration over time. Installing window treatments, such as blinds or curtains, helps mitigate these effects.

Ensure proper installation

Professional installation is crucial to accommodate seasonal changes. Expert installers leave appropriate expansion gaps along the edges of the flooring to account for wood movement during humid periods.

Clean spills immediately

Moisture is a major enemy of hardwood flooring, so it’s important to address spills as soon as they happen. Use a soft, damp cloth to clean up any liquid and avoid using excessive water during routine cleaning.

Maintain a consistent temperature

Keeping your home at a consistent temperature year-round helps minimize the impact of seasonal changes. Avoid sudden shifts in indoor climate, as they can exacerbate expansion and contraction in your hardwood.

Schedule regular maintenance

Periodic maintenance, such as sanding and refinishing, can rejuvenate your floors and protect them from seasonal wear. Consult with flooring professionals to ensure your hardwood receives the care it needs.


When to seek professional help

Some seasonal changes in hardwood flooring, like minor gaps or slight cupping, are normal and often resolve on their own as the seasons change. However, there are instances when professional intervention is necessary:

  • Persistent gaps: If gaps remain even after humidity levels stabilize, it may indicate an issue with the installation or the wood itself.
  • Severe warping or buckling: These issues require immediate attention to prevent further damage.
  • Mold or mildew: High humidity can lead to mold growth under the floorboards, which poses health risks and requires professional remediation.


Why choose Carpet Gallery and Flooring for your hardwood flooring needs

At Carpet Gallery and Flooring in Surrey, BC, we understand the importance of protecting your hardwood floors from seasonal changes. Our team of experts offers professional installation and maintenance services to ensure your flooring remains in top condition throughout the year. We also provide guidance on selecting the best hardwood for your home, considering the local climate and your lifestyle.

Don’t let seasonal changes compromise the beauty of your hardwood flooring. Visit our showroom in Surrey, BC, to explore our wide range of hardwood options and learn more about how to keep your floors looking their best. You can also contact us for expert advice and service tailored to your needs.