Wood flooring is a stunning choice for any home in Tulsa, OK, but its maintenance can be challenging, particularly in a humid climate. High moisture levels can wreak havoc on wood, causing it to warp, swell, or even crack over time. However, with proper care and attention, your wood flooring can maintain its natural beauty and durability for years to come. Here are some expert tips to help you protect and preserve your hardwood flooring in Tulsa’s unique climate.
Understanding the impact of Tulsa’s climate on wood flooring
Tulsa experiences hot, humid summers and mild, wet winters. The fluctuating humidity levels throughout the year can lead to expansion and contraction of wood flooring, which may cause issues such as cupping, warping, or gapping between floorboards. Understanding how Tulsa's climate affects your wood flooring is the first step toward proper maintenance.
Why humidity matters
Humidity directly impacts wood because wood is a hygroscopic material, meaning it absorbs and releases moisture depending on the surrounding environment. In high-humidity conditions, like those frequently experienced in Tulsa, wood tends to absorb moisture, causing it to expand. Conversely, in low-humidity conditions, the wood will release moisture and shrink, leading to gaps between planks. If not properly maintained, these constant changes can lead to long-term damage to your hardwood flooring.
Pro tips for maintaining wood flooring in Tulsa, OK
While humidity presents a challenge, several proven methods can help you maintain your wood flooring in Tulsa’s humid climate. These practices will extend the life of your flooring and keep it looking its best.
1. Control indoor humidity levels
The most important thing you can do to protect your hardwood flooring is to control the humidity levels inside your home. Ideally, you should maintain indoor humidity between 35% and 55%. To achieve this:
- Use a dehumidifier: During humid months, a dehumidifier can help reduce the moisture in the air, preventing your wood flooring from absorbing too much water.
- Install a humidifier for winter: In the colder months, indoor heating systems can dry out the air, which can cause your wood flooring to shrink and crack. A humidifier can add moisture back into the air, helping to prevent damage.
- Monitor humidity levels: Invest in a hygrometer to regularly monitor the humidity in your home. This small device can help you keep the air within the optimal range for hardwood flooring.
2. Clean regularly with care
Routine cleaning is essential for keeping wood flooring in Tulsa, OK, in top shape. However, it’s important to use the right techniques to avoid damage:
- Dry dusting or sweeping: Use a soft broom or microfiber dust mop to remove dirt and debris without scratching the surface. Avoid vacuum cleaners with beater bars, as they can damage the wood.
- Damp mopping: When mopping, use a damp (not wet) mop to avoid saturating the wood with water. Excess water can lead to swelling and warping, particularly in humid climates. Opt for a cleaner specifically designed for hardwood flooring to ensure safe and effective cleaning.
3. Protect against moisture
Given Tulsa's humidity, it's essential to protect your wood flooring from excess moisture. Here are some practical ways to do so:
- Use rugs and mats: Place rugs and mats at entrances and high-traffic areas to absorb moisture and prevent dirt from being tracked onto the wood. This also helps reduce wear and tear.
- Wipe up spills immediately: Spills should be cleaned up as soon as possible to prevent moisture from seeping into the wood and causing damage. Never allow liquids to sit on the floor for extended periods.
- Seal the wood: Apply a protective finish or sealant to your wood flooring to create a moisture barrier. This helps minimize the amount of water that can be absorbed by the wood, reducing the risk of damage from humidity.
4. Use climate-appropriate wood species
Another effective way to maintain wood flooring in Tulsa’s humid climate is to select wood species that are more resistant to moisture fluctuations. Some hardwood species are better suited for humid environments than others. If you’re considering installing new wood flooring or replacing existing floors, these species are excellent choices:
- Engineered hardwood: Engineered hardwood flooring consists of layers of plywood topped with a real wood veneer. This construction makes it more stable and less prone to warping than solid hardwood in humid conditions.
- Hardier species: Teak, oak, and Brazilian cherry are known for their durability and resistance to humidity. These species naturally withstand fluctuations in moisture better than softer woods like pine or maple.
5. Maintain a consistent temperature
In addition to controlling humidity, maintaining a consistent indoor temperature is key to protecting your hardwood flooring. Extreme temperature swings can exacerbate the effects of humidity, leading to more pronounced expansion and contraction of the wood.
- Avoid overheating or overcooling: Keep your home’s temperature stable throughout the year. Avoid cranking up the heat in winter or turning the air conditioner too low in summer, as these sudden temperature changes can stress the wood.
- Use window coverings: Sunlight streaming through windows can heat up certain areas of your wood flooring, causing uneven temperature variations. Install curtains or blinds to help control the amount of direct sunlight your floors receive.
Conclusion
Maintaining wood flooring in Tulsa, OK, can be a bit of a balancing act, but with the right strategies in place, you can enjoy the beauty and durability of your hardwood floors for many years. By controlling humidity, cleaning with care, protecting your floors from moisture, selecting the right wood species, and maintaining a consistent temperature, you’ll keep your wood flooring looking beautiful and functioning properly despite Tulsa’s humid climate.
If you’re considering new wood flooring or need expert advice on how to maintain your existing floors, contact Brucke Flooring today. Our team of flooring professionals in Tulsa, OK, is ready to help you find the perfect solution for your home’s needs. Visit our showroom or schedule a consultation to learn more about our wide range of hardwood flooring options.
