Living in Florida is a unique experience. The sub-tropical climate means that homes have to be able to withstand some extreme conditions to be durable, beautiful, and practical. The heat and humidity of Florida weather particularly cause problems with flooring.
The moisture, humidity, and constant expansion and contraction of flooring due to the weather can make it tricky to find flooring that won’t need to be repaired or replaced often. Hardwood flooring is beautiful, but hardwood floors are not recommended for Florida homes because of the way that humidity and moisture affect real hardwoods. The best choices for humidity-proof flooring are:
Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood flooring is an excellent alternative to traditional hardwood for Florida homes. Designed with a layered structure, engineered wood is more stable and less prone to warping from humidity and temperature changes. It offers the classic beauty of real wood while performing better in sub-tropical climates.
Available in a wide range of finishes and wood species, engineered wood flooring allows homeowners to enjoy the elegance of hardwood without the maintenance concerns. It’s also easier to install over concrete slabs, which are common in Florida homes.
Laminate Flooring
If you love the look of wood flooring but know that hardwood flooring isn’t practical, you can get the look of wood by installing laminated wood flooring. Laminated wood flooring is moisture-resistant and won’t fade in the sun. It’s designed for humid environments and won’t expand or curve when exposed to humidity.
Laminate wood flooring can also be installed easily over a concrete base. In Florida, where most homes have a concrete base, this is an important consideration. Laminate flooring has come a long way over the last few years, and now many stylish colors and wood grain options mimic the look of real hardwood.
Hardwood Flooring
While solid hardwood flooring is typically avoided in Florida due to high humidity, in some well-controlled indoor environments, it can still be a beautiful choice. If homeowners prefer hardwood, choosing denser, more stable wood species and installing proper moisture barriers can help reduce potential damage.
However, for most Florida homes, engineered wood is a more reliable option that delivers the same warm, timeless aesthetic with less risk of warping or cupping.
Find The Right Floors For Any Home with Joe Gray’s Flooring
The unique Florida climate means that Florida homeowners need to choose flooring that can stand up to heat and humidity while looking great. The experts at Joe Gray’s Flooring can help you find the best flooring for any home. Contact us today at 561-767-6092 to get started with expert advice and personalized recommendations.