Solid timber flooring represents a homogenous construction of timber. The product expands and contracts with weather and therefore it is seasoned well to allow for such expansion and contraction. The usage and maintenance of floor improves the longevity of any flooring. Apart from maintenance the treatment given to timber floor plays vital role in increasing durability. Since timber is a hygroscopic material, it absorbs surface and atmospheric moisture and reacts by expanding and contracting. To help in minimizing movement in flooring, it is recommended to dry it to standard moisture levels.
Timber Flooring |
Solid timber flooring will naturally expand and contract with fluctuations in temperature and humidity. Excessive moisture can lead to several changes to your floor, such as cupping, buckling or cracking. Therefore, it is highly recommended not to use direct water to clean your floors. You should use damp mopping for maintenance. Solid timber floors should have moisture content between (9 – 14%). If you are in an area with high humidity, you may need to install some humidity controls like a humidifier or dehumidifier.
Usually the basement area of a house comes in contact with water and at the same time there is no sufficient sunlight. As a result, the atmosphere in the basement is humid and the moisture level is also high. Thus, it is recommended not to use solid timber flooring in basement, unless the basement is completely water proof. Moisture can cause damage to solid timber flooring. At the same time these floors are not covered by warranty if installed in wet areas. Therefore, it is highly recommended not to use solid timber flooring in wet area.
How to maintain the solid timber floors?
In order to maintain the durability and attractiveness of your solid timber flooring, you should adopt the following practices:
- Place doormats or rugs at home entrances to collect moisture, sand, grit and other potentially damaging substances from being tracked onto your solid wood floor.
- Solid wood flooring cleans easily with a dry mop. To keep your solid floor clean from dust, dirt or grit, use dust mop or vacuum with a soft accessory.
- Safeguard the timber floor from furniture legs and avoid walking on the floor with high-heeled shoes.
- Clean your floor using mild detergents and do not use abrasive cleansers or corrosive chemicals.
- Although solid timber flooring has effective UV inhibitors in its pre-finish, it is recommended not to be exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.
Patterns of solid timber flooring:
Timber Flooring |
Solid timber flooring is available in various designs and patterns. Different designs are available ranging from classic to contemporary designs and patterns in solid timber. Some of the popular patterns are 3 strips, plank, handcrafted and brushed. You should pay a visit to the timber showrooms to check the striking color varieties in each pattern.
Advantages of solid timber flooring:
Solid timber flooring is one of the trendiest types of residential flooring. Following are a few reasons why you should choose them:
- Aesthetics: A variety of grain patterns; natural color variations and off course the beauty of a natural material.
- Easy maintenance: Solid timber floors are easy to clean. They are ideal for allergy sufferers as they do not promote dust or dust mites.
- Durability: Solid timber flooring is long-lasting. They last for decades or longer.
Over a period of time due to wear and tear the finishing of flooring seems to fade away. There are products available which can be applied to prefinished floors to renew the floor back to its original appearance. Use timber products sourced from reputable timber mills, stringently tested and handled carefully.
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