How Long Do Hardwood Floors Last?

Hardwood flooring is recognized for its long-lasting nature. Sometimes, people use it for decades, but the real question is – how long do custom hardwood floors actually last? The answer isn’t simple. The longevity of hardwood depends on a few factors.

Ideally, hardwood can give you peace of mind and a floor worth showing off for about twenty to thirty years. However, certain conditions may cut down the overall lifespan of the material. Here you’ll read about those conditions.

1. Pets and/or Children

Pet animals like cats and dogs are cute, and so are children. Unfortunately, they tend to damage hardwood floors. Cat claws, dog paws, and kids’ toys can scrape the floors. Spills and accidents are commonplace in households with pets and/or children. When they happen, they take several years off the floor’s life. To increase lifespan, consider trimming pet nails, watching for accidents and spills, and keeping all toys on a rug or play mat.

2. Humidity

If wood had an archenemy, it would be water. Wood floors tend not to last too long in a wet environment. In certain parts of the country, humidity is a year-long climatic phenomenon. It poses an increased risk of mold, which, in turn, deteriorates hardwood. If you reside in a relatively humid area, make sure that you insulate the doors and windows properly. Also, keep them shut throughout the year and purchase a dehumidifier to remove the water from the air.

3. Incorrect Installation

Whether you hire a professional installer of custom hardwood floors custom hardwood floors or do it yourself, incorrect installation will inevitably lead to issues later. This may include loose nails, folding, splitting, or cracking of the floorboards, etc. That’s why you should hire a credible professional to take care of the installation.

4. Home Foundation Shifting

Newly built properties often exhibit problems in the foundation. As time passes, the foundation may settle and shift, which can wreak havoc on the floor. If you reside in a recently erected house, make sure you install hardwood flooring with a settling foundation in mind. There are a few ways to set up the flooring on a shifting foundation. Ask the installers to install the floorboards perpendicular to the floor joists. This reduces the possibility of the planks buckling or separating.

5. Not Caring for the Floors

This is especially crucial because it’s easy to deal with. Then again, it happens to be the most overlooked aspect. Take good care of the hardwood floors by cleaning, polishing, and protecting them regularly. An easy, routine maintenance regime can help keep the floors looking and feeling new for decades.

Also Read: A Quick Guide to Selecting the Ideal Hardwood Flooring

Conclusive Statements

It isn’t going to be easy for the average homeowner to take proper care of custom hardwood floors. However, doing so will keep the investment well-protected. Hardwood flooring is one of the costliest options, but it can be one of the best investments made by homeowners. They don’t just last long, but they’re also a classic addition to homes. Hardwood is probably the only flooring material that won’t go out of style, ever!