Summer is here—and with it comes more than just sunshine and cookouts. In Rhode Island, rising heat and humidity can create the perfect storm for buckled wood, swollen laminate, and worn-out vinyl.
At D&M Hardwood Flooring, we know how New England’s seasons affect your floors—and we’re here to help you keep them looking beautiful year-round. Below, we’ve outlined simple summer flooring tips to protect your investment.
1. Mind the Humidity Levels
Excess humidity can cause hardwood to swell and warp. Even vinyl and laminate floors can be affected by changes in moisture, especially near windows, bathrooms, and kitchens.
What to do:
- Use a dehumidifier to maintain indoor humidity around 35–55%
- Keep air circulating with ceiling fans or AC
- Clean up spills immediately—even in entryways or basements
If your floors have already started cupping or warping, we offer refinishing services that can restore their original beauty.
2. Limit Direct Sunlight
Sunlight can fade and discolor your floors, especially in rooms with lots of windows or skylights. Vinyl and laminate can become brittle over time, while hardwood may lighten unevenly.
Try this:
- Close curtains or blinds during peak sun hours
- Apply UV-blocking window film
- Use rugs in high-exposure areas—but make sure they’re breathable underneath
Need help matching new flooring with existing sun-bleached areas? Check out our Our Work page for examples of custom floor blends and upgrades.
3. Adjust for Seasonal Expansion
Hardwood and laminate floors naturally expand in summer and contract in winter. A professional installation includes expansion gaps to account for this—but even then, extreme changes can cause creaking or gapping.
What you can do:
- Don’t over-tighten baseboards or trims
- Avoid heavy furniture directly on edges
- Have floors inspected if large gaps or buckling appears
Our team can inspect your floors and recommend solutions, including staircase refinishing or spot replacements when needed.
4. Clean Regularly—But Gently
With more foot traffic in summer (bare feet, pool days, guests), your floors are exposed to sand, water, and grime. But cleaning them the wrong way can do more harm than good.
Best practices:
- Use a microfiber mop with a hardwood-safe cleaner
- Avoid soaking your floors with water or steam mops
- Place mats at entrances to trap debris
Not sure which cleaner is right for your floor type? Visit our blog for product reviews and expert advice.
5. Consider a Summer Project
Summer is the perfect time to finally tackle that flooring upgrade you’ve been putting off.
Whether you’re replacing an outdated kitchen floor or restoring a weathered outdoor space, we can help. Our services include:
- Hardwood installation & refinishing
- Vinyl and laminate flooring
- Deck refinishing to get your outdoor space BBQ-ready
Each project is customized to your space, needs, and budget. We’ll walk you through the process from consultation to final coat.
FAQs: Flooring Care in the Summer Months
Can I install new floors during summer?
Yes! With the right climate control and prep, summer is a great time to install or refinish flooring.
What’s the best floor type for humid areas?
Vinyl and laminate are both great low-maintenance options. However, engineered hardwood also handles moisture better than traditional solid wood.
Do decks need special care in summer?
Definitely. Direct sun and rain can weather your deck fast. Consider deck refinishing every few years to keep it looking great and safe to use.
Let’s Get Your Floors Ready for Summer
You shouldn’t have to stress over your floors when the weather warms up. With a little prep and some expert help, your hardwood, vinyl, or laminate can stay beautiful and durable all season.
Have questions or want a quote? Contact us to schedule your free consultation, or explore examples of our craftsmanship on the Our Work page.
