5 Tips for Preventing Hardwood Floor Fading
As hardwood floors age, they do change a bit in appearance. Natural hardwood is a beautiful addition to any home, but because it is natural, it will undergo some changes due to light exposure, chemical exposure, and regular wear and tear. For many homeowners, the fading color of their hardwood floors is a beautiful thing, showing off the true beauty of having a natural feature in their home. Others prefer to restore their hardwood floors to their original glory when they notice fading. Here are our best tips for preventing fade in the first place so you can enjoy the vibrant color of your hardwood flooring for as long as possible:
Minimize Exposure to Sunlight
One of the number one reasons for hardwood fade is sunlight. Just as a tree in nature is protected by its bark, your hardwood floor needs something to protect it from UV rays. The first line of defense is your window coverings. Blinds, curtains, or shutters can all help protect your hardwood, or you could even go all the way and install low emission glass windows. Furniture and rugs can also protect your floors by blocking sunlight.
Choose a Protecting Finish
Many homeowners like the look of an oil-based finish, but because this contains oil ingredients, the finish itself will fade and yellow over time. Water-based finishes don’t have this problem, and can help protect your floor from cleaning agents that could cause fading.
Reduce Chances of Moisture Damage
Moisture damage can cause discoloration on hardwood floors. If you are mopping, or something spills, dry the floor right away to prevent moisture from lingering on the floor. If you live in a very humid area, you may want to place dehumidifiers in your home to protect the hardwood flooring.
Keep the Temperature Steady
Did you know that heat can cause hardwood floor to fade? This is particularly noticeable when your floor is hotter in certain areas than in others. If you walk around on your hardwood floors and notice “warm spots”, these spots are likely at risk for fading faster than the rest of the floor. You may wish to create shade or block that part of the floor from whatever heat source is nearby. A rug over the floor directly in front of a fireplace, for example, can help prevent fading.
Consult the Professionals
If you have tried everything you can, but your hardwood floor is still looking faded or discolored, the final step is to contact the flooring professionals. Whether you want to restore your floors or replace them, the pros will have the advice you need. At Ottawa Diamond Flooring, we can help you find the right solution to restoring your beautiful floors. A new finish may be all you need to see the gorgeous color of your floors again, or we can help you select a brand new hardwood to give your home an update. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you keep your hardwood looking amazing.
