Factors to Consider When Choosing Hardwood for Tampa’s Climate
Solid vs. Engineered Hardwood
Solid hardwood is made from a single piece of wood, whereas engineered hardwood is made up of layers.
While solid hardwood is beautiful and durable, it’s more likely to be affected by Tampa’s humidity. Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, is more stable and less likely to warp or buckle due to moisture changes.
Wood Finish
The type of finish on your hardwood floor can also affect how well it stands up to Tampa’s climate.
A polyurethane finish provides a protective layer that helps seal the wood and protect it from moisture. Oil-based finishes, while offering a more natural look, don’t provide the same level of protection against humidity.
Acclimation Period
Before installing hardwood floors in Tampa, let the wood acclimate to the environment. This process allows the wood to adjust to the local humidity and temperature. This also reduces the chances of warping or buckling after installation.
Your flooring installer should recommend an acclimation period between 5 and 7 days.
Maintenance
Most floors only require sweeping or vacuuming. Hardwood is no different. This flooring is easy to maintain, but if you live in Tampa, you might need to use a dehumidifier to regulate indoor humidity levels.