Hardwood flooring is a natural product that varies from piece to piece (expect variations as opposed to a uniform color.)  The characteristics of hardwood floors that give them their uniqueness are their variations in grain patterns and color.  Also, although your hardwood floor boards will be installed tightly, it is natural for them to absorb and expel moisture thus leading to the expansion and contraction of the boards from season to season.  Do not be alarmed if you notice that the floor is somewhat separating. It is the changes in humidity that cause this reaction within the flooring. During the winter, as your home heats and the air dries, wood flooring gives up some of its moisture and shrinks causing some thin cracks to appear. In the spring, when the heat is turned off and the indoor air regains moisture, most of the cracks close up. This is a normal characteristic of wood flooring. Keep in mind that light-stained wood floors and naturally light wood floors tend to show cracks more than darker, wood-toned floors.

Here are some things to keep in mind when it comes to your hardwood floors:

Expect Your Hardwood Floor To React To Daily Wear And Tear:

Each species of hardwood floor has its own characteristics.  When it comes to indentation and general wear due to everyday traffic, choose your floor based on your own expectations of how a floor should look after a year or two.  Also, keep in mind that color will change over time.  Your floors are a natural material.

Expect Color Variation

Diversity is part of every hardwood floor. Even the most primeval grade of wood species will have some variation.

Expect Expansion And Contraction

Your hardwood floor needs to breathe and thus room to expand whether you want it to or not. It is part of its nature so make sure (as it is being installed) that room for this kind of movement is allowed.

Expect Your Environment To Be Important

Make sure to install your wood floors where moisture or humidity is uncommon. Some hardwood floors do well in basement suites and in areas not specifically controlled for air moisture. But always ask and investigate whether or not the flooring you’re interested in is suitable.

Expect Regular Maintenance

Your hardwood floors will show signs of wear over time. But with a little attention, your floors will last a long time. Make sure to clean minor spills when they happen, keep an eye on pets, and every now and then give your floors a refinishing touch.

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