Wood flooring is one of the most desirable, whether at home or at the workplace. Many different factors go into the decision to install hardwood flooring. Customers often consider appearance, durability, cost, and maintenance requirements. However, many customers do not think about humidity and moisture conditions when choosing wood floors. These environmental factors can greatly affect the long-term performance of hardwood flooring. That’s where the flooring installer can help educate customers about installing wood flooring above grade, below grade, or on grade.
Why Does Grade Matter?
Hardwood flooring should only be installed on and above grade due to the levels of humidity. The humidity in a below-grade area is simply not appropriate for hardwood flooring. That’s because the soil around the structure is always dealing with water in some form or another, and the porous flooring pulls up moisture and releases it into the interior.
Even when a cement floor is sealed, there is still exposure to a more humid environment. Excess humidity is never good for wood flooring, and that’s why hardwood below grade is a big no-no in the flooring industry.
Alternatives
When putting in flooring below the surface, it’s usually not a good idea to install organic material like bamboo or hardwood. However, homeowners and business owners don’t have to forgo the look of hardwood. Engineered wood is the preferred material that flooring installation experts use below grade. Manufacturers build engineered wood with several layers of real wood and a veneer. Engineered wood resists moisture and humidity better than solid hardwood and reduces the risk of problems in below-grade installations. Engineered wood also comes in an array of colors, styles, and looks, so the customers can get the exact look they want.
[…] Hardwood floors have long been the standard of beauty and excellence when it comes to warm, long-lasting, and classic looks for home or work. Of course, hardwood flooring comes in an array of colors, plank sizes, and more. Most clients are also concerned with durability when it comes to hardwood flooring and may ask a flooring contractor or installation company what type of wood flooring wears best. […]