July 11, 2025
Hardwood floors are a timeless and valuable feature in any home. But like all natural materials, wood responds to its environment, such as changes in temperature and humidity. In areas where the seasons bring everything from humid summers to dry, frigid winters, hardwood floors can experience noticeable shifts over time.
At Monroe Floor Resurfacing in Rochester, NY, we help homeowners understand how seasonal changes affect hardwood flooring and offer expert solutions to protect and maintain their floors year-round.
How the Seasons Impact Hardwood Floors
Hardwood is a natural, porous material that expands and contracts based on moisture levels in the air. This means that your floors are constantly reacting to your climate.
In the summer, high humidity causes wood to absorb moisture and expand. You may notice slight cupping, where the edges of the floorboards rise higher than the center.
In the winter, dry air from heating systems can draw moisture out of the wood, causing it to shrink and dry out. This often leads to gaps between floorboards or minor cracking.
During transitional seasons, fluctuating temperatures and humidity levels can cause the wood to repeatedly swell and shrink, accelerating wear and tear over time.
5 Tips To Minimize Seasonal Flooring Damage
Protecting your hardwood floors from seasonal damage starts with being proactive. Here are a few steps you can take to preserve your investment:
- Maintain consistent indoor humidity: Use a humidifier in the winter and a dehumidifier or air conditioner in the summer to keep humidity levels between 35% and 55%.
- Install proper ventilation: Ensure your home has adequate airflow to prevent moisture buildup, especially in kitchens, basements, and bathrooms.
- Avoid excessive wet cleaning: Stick to dry mopping or damp cloths; never soak your hardwood floors, as water can cause swelling and warping.
- Use rugs and floor mats: Place rugs in high-traffic areas and entryways to minimize wear and reduce exposure to outdoor moisture and debris.
- Schedule regular maintenance: Have your floors professionally cleaned, buffed, or refinished as needed to maintain their protective finish and extend their lifespan.
Why Homeowners Trust Monroe Floor Resurfacing
Since 1982, we have been one of Rochester’s most trusted experts in hardwood floor care. Our team combines decades of experience with modern techniques to help homeowners restore and preserve their floors with confidence.
Whether you're dealing with seasonal damage, need new flooring installed, or want to enhance the look of your floors, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. We understand how local climate conditions affect hardwood, and we tailor our services to protect your floors year-round.
Let’s Keep Your Floors Looking Their Best
If you're noticing gaps, cupping, or other signs of seasonal stress on your hardwood floors, don’t wait for further damage to occur. Contact us today to schedule a free quote, and view the areas we serve. We’ll evaluate your floors, answer your questions, and recommend the best care options to keep your home looking beautiful in every season.