Hardwood flooring has more than earned its reputation for beauty, durability and adding long-term value to a home. Thinking about making this investment? You might be asking, “How long do hardwood floors last in Buffalo?”
Truthfully, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The lifespan of hardwood flooring depends on the type of hardwood, quality of installation, your maintenance routine, and how well you protect it from Buffalo’s seasonal changes. Let’s break it down.
There are two main types of hardwood flooring: solid and engineered. Each is built differently. Because of this, they each have their own lifespan. Let’s break them down:
Solid Hardwood: With regular maintenance and refinishing, solid hardwood flooring lasts 40-100 years. It should come as no surprise that century-old homes in Buffalo might have their original hardwood floors.
Engineered Hardwood: Generally, engineered hardwood lasts 20-40 years because it has real wood veneer that is quite thin. After the top layer wears through, it can’t be sanded down or refinished as many times.
Your flooring materials, installation job and maintenance routine all affect how long your hardwood flooring lasts. Additional factors also come into play, which we’ll get into shortly.
How long does hardwood flooring last? The product you buy isn’t the only thing you have to think about. Buffalo’s climate, the quality of the installation job and daily habits all make a difference.
Harder woods like oak, hickory and maple are better at withstanding dents, scratches and heavy foot traffic compared to softer species like pine. Opt for well-milled boards from reputable brands so your floors last longer instead of developing uneven wear and premature damage.
Even the best hardwood floors won’t last if they aren’t installed correctly. Hire professional installers because they will let the wood acclimate to the space (adjust to the temperature and humidity), lay each plank with precision and ensure they are properly fastened. This prevents warping, gaps or squeaks.
Buffalo has cold, dry winters and humid summers. Unfortunately, this can be tough on hardwood. Wood expands in humidity conditions and contracts in dry conditions, which can result in cupping or gaps. Use a humidifier in the winter and dehumidifier in the summer to keep the indoor humidity in the ideal range of 30-50%, protecting your floors from seasonal stress.
Keep grit and debris off the surface of your hardwood floors. This and using felt pads under furniture can prevent scratches and dents. You should also sweep, vacuum with a soft brush head and clean up spills right away. This preserves the finish and hardwood underneath it.
When cared for and installed properly, solid hardwood flooring can last you a lifetime. In contrast, engineered hardwood is still a good long-term investment that lasts 20-40 years. At Tontine Carpet One, we understand the importance of choosing the right product, indoor climate and maintenance practices. Ask us for tips.
Want to find the perfect hardwood flooring for your home? Visit our showroom or contact us to schedule an appointment!