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Hardwood flooring is known for its classic beauty and timeless appeal. It adds value to your property and can be stained in a variety of colors to suit different styles. Despite its obvious appeal, though, wood can become damaged for a variety of reasons. Here are several common problems that may occur—and how to handle them.

A Guide to Hardwood Flooring Damage

1. Moisture

hardwood flooringWater exposure can cause serious problems for hardwood flooring. Mold might develop if planks hold on to moisture for an extended period, such as during a flood. Buckling is a major concern that also occurs in these conditions. When the floor becomes warped, the problem is usually serious enough to warrant either a complete replacement or removal of individual planks.

2. Scratches

Scratches are fairly easy for hardwood floor specialists to handle. It’s not unusual for wood to suffer basic wear and tear with regular use, resulting in minor surface nicks. Sanding is the first step to resolving this problem, followed by the application of a fresh coat of finish.

3. Denting

Blunt or heavy objects can occasionally damage hardwood flooring. The resulting dent is unsightly, but not impossible to fix so long as all of the wood is still intact. Wood flooring experts typically use steam or advise homeowners to apply a damp towel over the affected area to “swell” the wood. This causes it to rise up. Then, it can be sanded to a smooth finish.

4. Splitting

It’s not unusual for older floors to develop small fissures within individual planks. These usually aren’t serious, as they can often be fixed with nails and putty to secure the split pieces together. But, deep splits that are visible from afar and that impact the integrity of the floor are far more serious, and a hardwood flooring specialist may recommend replacing the affected planks.

5. Fading

Potent ultraviolet rays can cause planks to fade over time. Depending on the type of wood, it may become much lighter than its original hue or darker over time. You can prevent excess sun exposure by keeping your window treatments closed when the sun is out. A flooring professional can apply a UV-resistant finish depending on the condition of the wood; while it won’t prevent the problem completely, it may slow the fading process significantly.

 

Could your hardwood flooring use some attention? If it’s damaged or requires refinishing, it needs some expert care from the team at American Floors. Serving Rhode Island and Southern Massachusetts, the company takes the integrity of your wood seriously. They perform floor repairs, restoration, and sanding, ensuring that it will look as good as the day it was first installed. Visit their website for details or give them a call at (401) 433-0530.

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