Summer in Cincinnati means more sunshine, more traffic in and out of the house, and yes, more opportunities for your hardwood floors to take a hit. Between the extra humidity, UV exposure, and all those backyard-to-kitchen barefoot trips, summer can be tough on wood flooring. But with a few smart habits, you can keep your floors looking sharp all season long.
1. Use Entryway Mats and Encourage Shoe-Free Zones
Dust, dirt, and tiny rocks love to sneak inside during the summer months. Placing quality mats both outside and inside your entryways traps that debris before it gets the chance to scratch up your floors. It also helps to make your home a shoe-free zone, especially if you’re hosting guests. Fewer shoes on the floor means less wear and fewer micro-scratches over time.
2. Keep Indoor Humidity in Check
High summer humidity can cause hardwood boards to expand, cup, or swell—especially in older homes or poorly ventilated spaces. Keep your indoor relative humidity between 30–50% to avoid damage. If your home feels muggy, a small dehumidifier can make a big difference, particularly in bedrooms, basements, or living rooms with lots of wood flooring.
3. Protect from Direct Sunlight
Natural light is great, but too much direct sun can dry out and fade hardwood over time. During the brightest hours of the day, use blinds, curtains, or solar window film to minimize UV damage. Rotating area rugs or moving furniture just slightly every few weeks can also prevent uneven fading, keeping your floors looking consistent.
4. Clean More Frequently
Let’s face it—summer means more mess. Whether it’s crumbs from cookouts, sand from weekend getaways, or grass tracked in from the backyard, it all ends up on your floors. A quick daily sweep or dry mop goes a long way. Regular light cleaning helps prevent grit from scratching the surface and keeps your floors looking polished between deeper cleans.
5. Add Pads to Furniture Legs
Summer often means shifting things around—more seating, rearranged furniture, or even temporary indoor camps for kids. Before sliding that bench or chair across the floor, make sure the legs are padded. Felt pads or furniture coasters are easy to install and help prevent scuffs and dents when furniture gets moved during summer gatherings.
Looking to Refresh Your Hardwood Floors in the Cincinnati Area?
Consistent summer maintenance helps your hardwood floors last longer—but if your floors are looking a little dull or have taken on damage over the years, professional refinishing might be the next step. At 50 Grit Flooring, we offer expert hardwood floor refinishing in Cincinnati to bring your floors back to life with precision and care.
We’re certified NWFA Installers, Hardwood Finishers, and Bona Certified Master Craftsmen—so you know your floors are in the right hands.
Get a Free Estimate and keep your hardwood floors looking their best all summer long with help from your trusted local team at 50 Grit Flooring.
