How Winter Weather Effects Your Floors

Winter is just around the corner, and StarFloors wants to help you maintain and protect your beautiful hardwood floors during this chilly winter season.

It’s important to remember that hardwood floors are natural products that already carry moisture. As the moisture in the environment changes, so does the moisture in your hardwood floor. It's natural for your hardwood floors to adapt to these environmental factors with the seasons. However, sometimes these natural adaptions can lead to bigger issues.  By protecting your floors this winter, you can avoid such issues so you can enjoy your hardwood floors all winter long.

StarFloors team of experts complied their most commonly asked questions to assist you in maintaining your floors' natural beauty this winter.

How does cold weather affect my hardwood floors?

As the winter rages on and temperatures drop, you may begin to notice cracks in your hardwood floor. If you live in an area that is especially dry and arid this is  very common. 

As the air dries out, so will the wood. Your floors might begin to shrink causing the appearance of cracks between the boards.

What causes the cracking and shrinking in the hardwood floors?

Turning your heat up in your house will cause the inside air to dry out thus pulling the moisture from the floor. As the temperature outside drops below freezing, the moisture in the air will be very minimal and drop as snow, frost or ice and this may cause the shrinking and cracking in your hardwood floor as well.

Are there solutions to preventing or minimizing cracking and shrinking hardwood floors?

·         By using a humidifier in your home you can drastically minimize the effects of the cold weather.

·         By sealing up cracks around windows and doors, this will reduce the drafts coming into your home.

·         Have all family members and guests remove their shoes at the entryway on a mat, the standing water can affect the finishing on the floor as well as seep into the cracks causing possible bacteria and mold growth.

The cracking and the shrinking of hardwood floors is not permanent. As the temperature and the humidity levels begin to rise, the wood will absorb that moisture and return to its original state.

Don’t forget that our flooring specialists are always here to answer any questions and concerns you may have regarding your area rug choice. We are available toll free at 866-503-STAR (7827) or on the web at www.starfloors.com. You can also submit your questions to us at www.facebook.com/starfloors or on twitter @starfloors_