Hardwood Floors News : NWFA Recognizes Members for Volunteer Work

Hardwood Floors News : NWFA Recognizes Members for Volunteer Work

Pre-Summer Caution!

This post is not in the current series I am working on, "Troubleshooting Finish Issues", rather, it is in response to the high number of calls I am getting about it.  Please... Please... Please, adjust the thermostats in your houses and businesses slowly in preparation for Summer.  Taking floors that have been at a constant 76-80 degrees F to a constant 65-72 degrees F takes a little time.  If you just throw the thermostat down and let it run, you could have issues with your hardwood floor.  Watch the weather and adjust your thermostat a couple of degrees a day or so.  It might take a few days or even a week, but that is a lot better than paying to have your floors repaired.

Troubleshooting Hardwood Floor Finishes (Part 2)

Problem: Discoloration

Discoloration is almost always a result of direct sunlight and oxidation.  All oil-modified floor finishes will amber over time, due to natural reactions with ultra violet light.  Water based floor finishes will tend to lighten or yellow over time, due to the same reactions.  Shading your windows and doors can help to slow the reaction, however, the floor system is going to change color. 

As for a “fix”…  Refinishing may be the only option with large areas of discoloration.  If it is a small area that has been covered by an area rug… Simply remove the rug for several weeks and see if the floor starts to “catch up”.  That may be all you need.   

Troubleshooting Hardwood Floor Finishes (Part 1)

I have decided to do a several part series of posts on troubleshooting hardwood floor finishes.  Although many finish issues can result with the finish, many times the underlined cause is not due to a finish problem.  In each post in this series I will discuss a problem and solutions to those problems.  I am fully aware that SOME issues arise due to product or contractor problems; however, I am going to limit causes to the most likely.

Problem: Excessive and Early Finish Wear

The most likely culprit to excessive wear is improper floor system maintenance that does not effectively remove grit from the floor, or using strong cleaners and water.  Unprotected furniture legs are also a big contributor.  Proper, regular maintenance consists of an approved hardwood floor cleaner and an approved mop cover.  Simple, but important.  Another simple way to minimize your heart ache… Felt pads on the bottom of all furniture legs and appliances.

What is the fix to early or excessive wear?  Unfortunately it is a re-coat.  You should contact your local wood flooring professional and get it scheduled.  The longer that you let excessive wear go, the closer you are getting to a full blown refinish!