Flooring materials, no matter how long-lasting, will deteriorate and need to be replaced after a certain period of time – some may last ten years, while others may begin to cause problems after three to five years. While it is acceptable to continue using old flooring, there are times when too much is too much and a replacement is necessary not only for the safety of your family but also for your health and quality of life. Old and worn out flooring can cause problems to your indoor air quality and even pose a safety hazard, especially if it buckles and chips. Hence, it is crucial to replace them when the time comes. Here are four indicators that it is time to replace your home flooring.
Termite Damage in Wood Flooring
Termites feed on wood cellulose to power all of their vital processes, and wood structures, such as your home’s wood flooring, can attract termites like a magnet. Although termites primarily feed on softwood, you may occasionally find termite infestations in hardwood flooring.
The damage caused by termite infestation will not be visible immediately and may not appear for several years, so if you notice signs of damage, hear creaking sounds, or notice your wood floors sinking, it is best to get your wood flooring checked. If there is a termite infestation, quickly eradicate the termites and replace your flooring.
You’ve Refinished your Wood Flooring Multiple Times
Solid wood flooring can be refinished every few years to maintain the natural lustre of the wood and to keep the surfaces smooth. However, after a few rounds of refinishing, the wooden planks will begin to thin out and will no longer be as durable or strong as when they were first installed, making them more susceptible to cracks and other structural damage. If you’ve had your wood flooring refinished several times, it may be time to replace it with new flooring.
Obvious Wear and Tears
Are you seeing more visible signs of wear and tear in your home’s flooring? It could be chips and scratches in your wood floors, vinyl flooring that no longer stays flat on the ground, or loose tile floors. These damages are the result of accumulated moisture damage, excessive impact, and heavy traffic, which results in weakened structures. If you don’t replace your flooring, it can become a safety hazard and even cause injuries.
The Flooring has been Used for Many Years
Every flooring material has a different average lifespan, and depending on how well you maintain it, it could last even longer. Hardwood floors, for example, can last an average of 100 years, whereas vinyl flooring can last between 5 and 25 years, depending on the quality. If your home’s flooring has been in service for more than 20 to 30 years, it’s time to replace it, especially if it’s made of porous materials like natural stone or natural wood – porous materials can harbour bacteria and germs if not properly sealed and resealed on a regular basis.
Although most homeowners want to save money and avoid spending more money to replace their floors, it is important to replace them if you notice signs of severe damage in order to keep your family safe.
Floorrich is a flooring supplier in Singapore that provides non-toxic flooring solutions. Get in touch with us to learn more about our products and services.