Winter in Michigan can bring harsh weather conditions, including cold temperatures, snow, ice, and high humidity. While hardwood flooring is a popular and attractive choice for many homeowners, it is important to consider how these winter weather conditions can affect your hardwood floors and how to care for them during the winter months.
Cold temperatures can cause hardwood to contract and expand, which can lead to gaps between the planks and may cause the flooring to become uneven. This is more likely to happen with site finished hardwood, as it is installed and finished on site and is more susceptible to moisture and temperature changes. To prevent this, it is important to keep your home at a consistent temperature and avoid rapid temperature changes. You should also avoid leaving windows open or using unvented heat sources, such as space heaters, as they can cause the air to become dry and lead to moisture loss in the wood.
Snow and ice can also pose a threat to your hardwood floors, as they can bring in moisture and salt, which can cause the wood to become damaged. To prevent this, it is important to remove snow and ice from your shoes before entering your home, and to use mats and rugs at entryways to catch any excess moisture. You should also avoid using salt or deicing chemicals on your hardwood floors, as they can cause discoloration and deterioration. Instead, use a safer deicing alternative, such as sand, to prevent slips and falls on your driveway and walkways.
High humidity can also be a problem for hardwood floors, as it can cause the wood to expand and become prone to cupping and warping. To prevent this, it is important to maintain a consistent humidity level in your home, ideally between 35% and 50%. You can use a humidifier or dehumidifier to regulate the humidity, and make sure to use a moisture meter to monitor the humidity levels in your home.
By following these tips, you can protect your hardwood floors from the harsh winter weather conditions in Michigan and ensure that they remain in good condition for years to come.
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