The rich, warm hues and the inviting feel of hardwood floors make them a favorite choice for homeowners and designers alike. But, as much as people cherish their beauty, most are also concerned about their durability.
With proper care, hardwood floors can last for generations. In fact, some hardwood floors in historic homes are over 100 years old! However, most hardwood floors usually last for about 25–30 years because of high foot traffic and insufficient maintenance.
This article explains the factors that determine the lifespan of hardwood floors and how you can extend it for years to come.
How Many Years Do Hardwood Floors Last?
Solid hardwood floors, which are made from a single piece of wood, can last for 100 years or more with proper care and maintenance. Engineered hardwood floors, which are made from multiple layers of wood, have a shorter lifespan, typically 25-50 years.
Exotic hardwoods like Brazilian cherry, teak, or tigerwood are renowned for their durability and unique appearance. They can last 25-30 years with proper maintenance.
Reclaimed wood, sourced from old buildings or structures, can last for a century or more. It’s an excellent choice if you value the history and character of aged wood.
What Factors Determine The Time Hardwood Floors Will Last?
The type of wood, the quality of installation, and the amount of foot traffic your hardwood floors endure determine their lifespan.
The Type of Wood
The type of wood used to make your hardwood floors is one of the most important factors that will determine their lifespan. Some types of wood, such as oak, maple, and hickory, are more durable than others and will last longer. These woods are naturally hard and dense, and they are resistant to scratches, dents, and wear.
Other types of wood, such as pine and fir, are softer and less durable. These woods may be more susceptible to damage, especially in high-traffic areas.
Hardwood Finish
The finish on your hardwood floors plays an important role in protecting them from damage. A high-quality finish will help to resist scratches, stains, and moisture.
Water-based finishes are the most environmentally friendly option, but they are also less durable than oil-based finishes. Oil-based finishes are more durable, but they can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during the drying process.
Polyurethane finishes are a good compromise between water-based and oil-based finishes. They are durable and offer good protection against moisture, but they can also emit VOCs during the drying process.
Installation
The installation of your hardwood floors is another important factor that will affect their lifespan. If the floors are not installed correctly, they may be more susceptible to damage.
Some common installation mistakes include:
- Not using a moisture barrier: A moisture barrier prevents moisture from the subfloor from damaging the hardwood.
- Not using enough nails or screws: Hardwood floors need to be securely fastened to the subfloor to prevent them from buckling or warping.
- Not leaving enough expansion space: Hardwood expands and contracts naturally with changes in temperature and humidity. If the floors are not installed with enough expansion space, they may buckle or warp.
Traffic
The amount of traffic your hardwood floors receive will also affect their lifespan. Floors in high-traffic areas, such as kitchens and hallways, will wear down faster than floors in low-traffic areas, such as bedrooms and guest rooms.
If you have high-traffic areas in your home, you may want to consider using a more durable type of wood for your hardwood floors, such as oak or maple. You may also want to consider using a harder finish, such as a polyurethane finish.
How To Extend The Lifespan of Hardwood Floors?
To extend the lifespan of your hardwood floors, clean and maintain them regularly. This includes sweeping and mopping them regularly and using a hardwood floor cleaner. You should also avoid wearing shoes with spikes or heels on your hardwood floors.
If your hardwood floors start to show signs of wear and tear, such as scratches, dents, or fading, you can have them refinished. Refinishing involves sanding down the top layer of the wood and applying a new finish. You can do it multiple times over the lifespan of the floor, effectively giving you new floors each time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should Wood Floors Be Replaced?
Hardwood floors should be replaced every 25-30 years with proper care and maintenance, which includes regular cleaning, sweeping, and mopping, as well as occasional refinishing.
What Is the Strongest Wood Flooring?
The strongest wood flooring is Brazilian walnut, also known as Ipe. It has a Janka hardness rating of 3680, which is the highest of any wood commonly used for flooring. However, it is very expensive and rare.
Conclusion
Hardwood floors are a durable and long-lasting investment, but they require proper care and maintenance to extend their lifespan.
If your hardwood floors are starting to show their age, you don’t necessarily have to replace them. Refinishing is a great way to restore the original beauty of your floors and protect them from further damage.
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