Wooden flooring is well known for its warmth, appeal, and durability. Nevertheless, despite its well-known resilience, one of the most common ways that it could be harmed is by getting wet. Excessive moisture in your wooden flooring can lead to warping, cupping, and other unsightly damage. But with the right care and attention, you can protect your wood investment and maintain its beauty for years to come.
Let’s explore essential tips for keeping your wood flooring in Singapore in top shape during those humid months.
Understanding the Impact of Humidity on Wood Flooring
Wood flooring is known to be susceptible to damage when exposed to excessive moisture. This unwanted water can cause a number of problems that not only affect the appearance of your floors but also pose potential safety risks.
One of the most common issues is warping, which occurs when the wood swells unevenly. This can lead to cupping, where the edges of the planks rise up like a saucer, or crowning, where the centre of the board bulges upwards. In severe cases, the planks may even buckle entirely, creating a wavy or uneven surface.
Beyond these visible signs of distress, moisture can also cause hidden harm. As the wood absorbs water, it expands, leading to gaps between the planks. These openings can allow more moisture to seep in, creating a cycle of damage that can result in wood rot, mould growth, or even attract unwanted pests.
Prevention Tips To Reduce Humidity-Related Damage To Your Wood Flooring
If you want wooden flooring for your home, one of the most effective ways to reduce humidity-related damage is to opt for engineered wood products instead of traditional solid wood parquet. Unlike solid wood made from a single piece of timber, engineered wood flooring uses multiple layers of wood. For example, engineered wood flooring from Foglie d'Oro comprises a base layer of fir or birch wood, topped with a layer of solid hardwood. This layered design makes engineered wood far more resistant to moisture and humidity fluctuations than solid wood parquet.
Due to its layered construction, the engineered wood flooring is more resistant to warping, cupping, and shrinking. This allows the layers to expand and contract at different rates, helping counter the effects of humidity fluctuations. This stability is also why engineered wood flooring is an excellent choice for regions with high humidity, such as Singapore, or areas in the home where moisture is more prevalent, such as kitchens and basements.
However, to ensure the longevity of your engineered wood flooring, it’s important to control the humidity levels in your home. Here are some ways to reduce humidity to prevent damage to your preferred wooden floors.
Install a dehumidifier
Using a dehumidifier on automatic mode is a great way to protect your wood flooring in Singapore and improve indoor air quality. This appliance works by continuously removing excess moisture from the air.
By reducing the humidity levels in your home, you prevent your wood floors from absorbing too much water. This helps to maintain the condition of your flooring, regardless of its type, and safeguards against issues like warping or buckling. Lower humidity levels contribute to a healthier living environment by reducing the potential for mould and mildew growth.
Ensure proper ventilation
Your home likely has several ways to let in fresh air, which is important for maintaining your wood flooring. One common type of ventilation is through your windows. These should be open and unobstructed to allow air to circulate.
Use rugs or mats at high traffic areas
To protect your wooden floors from the wear and tear of constant foot traffic as well as potential moisture damage, consider placing area rugs or mats in high-traffic areas of your home, particularly at entrances.
These floor coverings enhance your home's aesthetic appeal with their decorative designs and serve a practical purpose by acting as a barrier between your wooden floors and external elements. By doing so, you can significantly reduce the risk of water damage and prolong the lifespan of your wood flooring.
Use mats or trays under potted plants
Use a protective felt mat between the pot's base and the floor if you have potted plants indoors. Avoid materials like rubber, PVC, or plastic for these mats, as they can discolour your wood. If your floors are carpeted or covered with rugs, consider placing a tray beneath the pot to prevent leaks or moisture from directly affecting the floor covering. This added precaution will help maintain the beauty and integrity of your floors.
Avoiding excessive water exposure during cleaning
To prevent harm, avoid overusing water when cleaning. Instead of soaking the wood, use a slightly damp mop or cloth and dry the area immediately. Harsh chemicals can also damage the finish, so opt for gentle cleaning products.
Wipe up spills immediately
Whether it’s plain water or ketchup, moisture from these spills can seep into the wood, potentially causing damage. When a spill occurs, gently blot the liquid with a soft, dry cloth to absorb as much of the liquid as possible. Drying the area completely is essential to prevent any moisture from penetrating the wood and causing harm.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips
There are other ways to maintain your wood flooring, though these can be conducted from time to time. These can include:
Inspecting wood flooring for signs of damage or wear and tear
Regularly check your floors for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Small problems can quickly turn into big ones if left unattended, so it's important to catch and fix them early on. By conducting routine checks, you can identify potential concerns early on and take the necessary steps to prevent further deterioration. This proactive approach will not only save you money on costly repairs but also help preserve the overall appearance and value of your home.
Reapply protective finishes or sealants as needed to maintain durability
To keep your wood floors looking their best and protected, consider applying a new layer of finish every few years. The type of finish needed for a wooden floor depends on how much foot traffic it will receive. Areas with heavy foot traffic require a strong, durable finish like polyurethane or aluminium oxide to withstand wear and tear. On the other hand, areas with less foot traffic can be adequately protected with a simpler finish, such as oil or wax.
By applying a sealant, you create a protective barrier that shields the wood from the damaging effects of moisture. This helps prevent warping, rotting, and decay, which can significantly shorten the lifespan of your pieces. The sealant acts as a safeguard against stains and spills, making cleanup a breeze and preserving the wood's natural appearance. It offers protection from harmful UV rays, which can cause fading and discolouration over time.
Top Brand for Wood Flooring
FOGLIE D'ORO: Foglie d'Oro offers a refined and diverse range of planks, chevrons, herringbone, and intricate inlaid panels that are crafted by hand, paired with continuous research and development for innovative designs and finishes. Skilled artisans meticulously process each piece of wood, flawlessly bringing your creative visions to life. Foglie d'Oro’s pre-finished three-layer wood flooring increases its durability, and with careful installation that avoids high humidity levels, rest assured this wood flooring would be a lifelong worthy investment.
Where to Get the Best Wood Flooring in Singapore
At Lux & Beyond, our passion is bringing your design vision to life. We believe every space deserves a unique touch, which is why we offer customisable wood flooring from the renowned Foglie d'Oro. As the official distributor, we provide a wide range of options to transform your floors into stunning masterpieces To find out more about our wood flooring, contact us today.
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