Having new flooring installed in any room can drastically change the feel and look of a space. And, proper maintenance is the best way to make sure this beautiful new feeling lasts for as long as possible. While we largely understand the impact moving furniture and food stains can have on our floor, many don’t realise the impact that sunlight can have. So, in today’s blog, we’re talking about the different ways sunlight might age your flooring.
Why Is Sunlight an Issue?
There are two main aspects of natural sunlight that pose a risk to flooring – UV Rays and temperature. Over time, it’s not uncommon to notice that the once rich brown tone of your wooden floor has begun to fade. This becomes even more apparent when you do move furniture and remember what it once looked like. Let’s take a look at both UV rays and temperature to better understand their impact.
UV Rays
Many materials used for flooring are photosensitive. This means they react to sunlight. Wood, carpet and unprotected laminate can all face changes in colour if continually exposed to natural sunlight.
Temperature
Particularly hazardous for wood floors, fluctuations in temperature cause natural materials to expand or contract. This puts pressure on the fibres of the planks, causing them to look aged quicker. It also means that fitting issues may arise as sections change at different speeds and to different intensities.
How Can I Minimise Floor Ageing?
These changes are somewhat inevitable over time. However, there are a few things you can do to slow down the process.
- Use your window coverings in accordance with the sun. Opt for UV-blocking materials or sheer fabrics during the day which blocks out a large percentage of sunlight.
- Regularly rotate your rugs and move furniture around so different sections are exposed or covered at different times.
- Opt for a UV inhibiting finish on laminate and wood floorings.
Here at Virtuoso Flooring, we have over 20 years of experience supporting homeowners in finding the right floor for them. If you’re concerned about the impact of excessive sunlight in a specific room, speak to us today. We’ll help you find the most durable solution and provide guidance on how you can best manage the ageing process once your new floor is installed.
