How to Maintain Hardwood Floors in Edmonton During the Summer
The Carpet Studio
Hardwood floors are a timeless, elegant feature in any home. But if you live in Edmonton, where summer can swing between dry heat and sudden humidity (thanks to thunderstorms or changing weather fronts), your hardwood flooring needs special care. While winter gets most of the attention for being harsh on wood, summer maintenance is equally important to prevent warping, gapping, or fading.
Here’s how to keep your hardwood floors looking beautiful and structurally sound through an Edmonton summer.
1. Control Indoor Humidity
Why it matters:
Hardwood is a natural material that expands and contracts with moisture. While Edmonton summers are often dry, sudden humidity spikes (from rain or even just running the AC irregularly) can cause wood to swell, warp, or cup.
What to do:
Maintain indoor humidity between 40–55%.
Use a humidifier or dehumidifier to stabilize moisture levels, especially during heatwaves or after storms.
Place a hygrometer in your home to monitor humidity accurately.
2. Protect Floors from Sunlight
Why it matters:
Long daylight hours in northern Alberta can expose floors to intense UV rays, which fade and discolor wood over time.
What to do:
Use blinds or curtains during peak sun hours, especially in south-facing rooms.
Install UV-filtering window film to block harmful rays without sacrificing natural light.
Rotate rugs and furniture periodically to avoid uneven fading.
3. Keep Floors Clean and Grit-Free
Why it matters:
Dust, dirt, and small stones are more common in summer due to open windows, pets, and increased foot traffic. These particles can scratch and dull your finish.
What to do:
Sweep or vacuum regularly using a soft-bristle broom or hardwood-safe vacuum.
Use a damp (not wet) microfiber mop for deeper cleaning.
Place mats at all entry points to trap dirt and moisture before it hits your floor.
4. Watch for Pet & Pool Water
Why it matters:
Pets, kids, or guests coming in from the garden, pool, or hose can leave puddles or wet footprints—bad news for hardwood.
What to do:
Keep a towel by the door to wipe paws and feet.
Encourage indoor shoes or slippers instead of wet bare feet.
Clean up spills immediately with a dry or slightly damp cloth.
5. Use Your Air Conditioner Strategically
Why it matters:
Air conditioning helps keep temperatures and humidity in check but can dry the air too much or cause condensation if mismanaged.
What to do:
Set your AC to run at consistent temperatures to avoid sudden humidity swings.
Combine AC with a whole-home humidifier or dehumidifier if needed to keep levels balanced.
Avoid turning your AC off and on too frequently—this destabilizes the indoor environment for your floors.
6. Check for Seasonal Gaps or Swelling
Why it matters:
As the temperature and humidity fluctuate, your hardwood may expand or contract slightly.
What to do:
Don’t panic over minor seasonal changes—they’re natural.
If gaps or swelling become extreme or permanent, call a flooring professional to inspect the subfloor and installation.
Refrain from caulking gaps that appear in summer—they may close up in winter and cause pressure points.
Conclusion
Hardwood floors in Edmonton require a little summer TLC to stay in peak condition. By managing humidity, protecting from sunlight, and keeping things clean and dry, you can enjoy the beauty and durability of your floors year-round—even during Alberta’s unpredictable summer months.
With a proactive approach, you’ll preserve the investment and charm of your hardwood, ensuring it stays stunning no matter what the weather brings.