How to Protect and Maintain Your Hardwood Floors in the Rainy Washington Climate

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How to Protect and Maintain Your Hardwood Floors in the Rainy Washington Climate

Serving Auburn, Tacoma & Seattle • (253) 226-1751 • ochoaflooringandcarpets.com

Hardwood brings warmth and value to homes across Auburn, Tacoma, and Seattle. With frequent rain and seasonal humidity, Washington homeowners need a maintenance plan tailored to our climate. Use these best practices to keep your floors looking their best for decades.

1) Control Indoor Humidity (Target 35–55%)

    Run dehumidifiers during wet months; humidifiers in dry, heated winters. Ensure HVAC systems are serviced and filters changed regularly. Acclimate new flooring before installation.

2) Stop Moisture & Grit at the Door

Install exterior scraper mats and interior absorbent rugs. Adopt a no-shoes policy, and use boot trays in winter. Grit acts like sandpaper on finishes.

3) Clean Spills Immediately

Blot with a dry or slightly damp microfiber cloth—never soak. For sticky spills, use a hardwood-safe cleaner sparingly.

4) Follow a Simple Cleaning Schedule

    Daily/Every Other Day: Dust mop with microfiber. Weekly: Vacuum using a soft-bristle floor head. Monthly: Apply a manufacturer-approved cleaner.

Avoid: Steam mops, oil soaps, and abrasive pads that can dull the finish.

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5) Protect from Furniture & Traffic

    Felt pads on furniture legs; replace as they compress. Runners in hallways and area rugs in high-traffic zones. Trim pet nails to reduce scratches.

6) Refinish on a Sensible Timeline

Most homes refinish every 7–10 years, earlier for heavy use. Ask Ochoa Flooring & Carpet about dust-controlled sanding and low-VOC finishes.

7) Seasonal Checklist for Washington Homes

    Spring: Deep clean post-winter; check for moisture spots. Summer: Watch for dryness; maintain humidity. Fall: Lay rugs before the rainy season; check weatherstripping. Winter: Vacuum more often; use humidifiers to offset heating.

Common Issues & Fixes

Cupping/warping: Reduce moisture and allow time; severe cases need sanding/refinishing.

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Gapping: Usually seasonal; monitor humidity.

Cloudy finish: Possible trapped moisture—consult a pro for refinishing.

FAQs

Can I put hardwood in a basement?

Use engineered hardwood with proper vapor barriers; solid hardwood is risky below grade.

What species perform well here?

Oak, maple, and hickory are durable and https://postheaven.net/cwrictofvn/carpet-buying-guide-choosing-the-perfect-style-and-material-for-your-home-6t76 widely available in engineered formats.

Call the Local Pros

For hardwood floor refinishing and repair done right, trust Ochoa’s licensed team.

Call (253) 226-1751 or schedule your service online

Ochoa Flooring & Carpet Phone: (253) 226-1751 Ochoa Flooring & Carpet Phone: (253) 226-1751 Website: https://ochoaflooringandcarpets.com/ Service Area: Auburn, Tacoma, and Seattle, WA Website: https://ochoaflooringandcarpets.com/ Service Area: Tacoma, Auburn, and Seattle, WA