Nothing lasts forever, not even your flooring.
It is okay to cling to the dream of floor maintenance for the fifteenth time. But when wear and tear get too much, you need to take the leap and replace floors.
Flooring replacement can also prevent pest infestation, health, and safety risks. And it saves you the effort of desperately attempting to cover stains when guests come over. Long-term, the investment in new flooring could save you all the flooring repairs too!
So what are the signs flooring damage has gotten too much? Read on for eight top signs you need flooring replacement.
1 . Wear and Tear
A few scratches and a stain or two are natural. Especially if you have light-colored carpet, pets, or children, you can expect wear and tear.
But deep scratches and cracks need attention. Also, when stains are stubborn, even after a deep clean, look into flooring replacement.
Why?
Well, cracks and deep scratches are susceptible to water damage and pest infestation. Termites love to eat floorboards. Also, stains are more of a hassle than an eyesore; they can cause rotting and other issues.
Peeling laminate also needs to be replaced. You can get section flooring repairs, but if you want an exact style match, replace all the flooring.
2. Water Damage
Water damage can leave lasting flooring damage too. If you have a leak, this is another motivation to fix it before it worsens! Even after a leak, flooring needs to be adequately dried to prevent deterioration.
The average price of a roof leak fix is $1,430. Please do not put it off, as nearby flooring can also be damaged and add to costs!
Bulging, dark stains, and mold, are some signs the water leak caused flooring damage. Your flooring may feel soft too.
You might also notice cupping, which is when the edges appear higher. If this is the case, the best course of action is flooring replacement. If you are unsure, or your flooring was exposed to water for a long time, it is best to call a professional for advice.
3. Noisy Flooring
Noisy floorboards can be one of the first signs of flooring damage. There are many causes for creaking or squeaking floorboards. But if your flooring is older, it could signal a deeper issue.
Many causes will just require flooring repairs. It could be something as similar as a loose nail.
Improper installation, settling of foundations, and sub-floor damage, also can cause noises. You can try to replace a creaky board, but get a professional to inspect it if it is more widespread. It could be rotting, which will progressively get worse.
4. Sanded Too Many Times
Hardwood floors offer many benefits, including that they are cost-effective. They last a long time with low maintenance. However, you can refinish them too many times!
If hardwood floors are sanded too many times, the wood can become too thin. Thin floorboards are more susceptible to cracks and other structural damage.
On average, hardwood floors can last up to 12 years. But it depends on the care, hardwood type, and other factors to last this long.
If you have had several refinishes, it is time for flooring replacement. If you are not sure how many refinish the wood has had, look out for other flooring damage signs.
5. Discoloration of Flooring
Vinyl flooring, hardwood, and other types of flooring can discolor. Initially, you can try a deep clean. If it is just on the wood's surface, a good clean should leave the flooring looking fresh again.
However, sometimes discoloration nods to deeper issues, which can be more harmful. Mold is one factor that needs attention, as it can cause health issues. And it will worsen over time!
Mildew and mold can be stubborn, especially in the grout of tiles and in certain rooms, such as the bathroom. If the problem reoccurs after you clean it and you solved any damp issues, replace the flooring.
The same goes for carpet. Maintain it by cleaning it regularly. But it can give up repelling discoloration contaminants once it is ready to be replaced.
6. Unpleasant Odors
Once smells get through to the sub-floor, you need a flooring replacement. Commonly this is due to pets or other accidents. You will need to clean the subfloor thoroughly to rid of smells such as pet urine.
Once you do this, pick a flooring replacement that is recommended for pet owners.
Stains and subsequent issues such as mold will quickly cause unpleasant odors. You can try some floor maintenance, such as cleaning, to get rid of the smell. But a candle or some air freshener will not do the trick and soon will not mask the odor.
If smells linger, the problem needs more than what flooring maintenance can solve.
7. Outdated Style
There is also no shame in needing a flooring replacement because of the style. Maybe you are desperately seeking a flooring damage sign. Or perhaps you moved in and accepted the flooring until it began to clash with your style and give you a headache.
Or your flooring is merely old, and you want a change! Whatever the reason, there is a flooring style for everyone. Check flooring galleries for inspiration.
8. Allergies
Are you struggling with allergies despite battling to prevent them? The solution could be right under your feet: your flooring.
Dust, pollen, and mold can also make a home in your flooring. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are also in some finishes. Replace your flooring with suitable options such as tiles, hardwood, or vinyl.
Time for Flooring Replacement!
If any of these flooring damage signs sound familiar, take action! If flooring repairs do not work, it is time for a flooring replacement.
And what a great reason to rethink your flooring and what works best for you! There are many options out there to choose from.
Make sure you pick a trustworthy company for your flooring replacement. National Floors Direct offers unrivaled industrial knowledge and quality flooring options! Contact us today to find out more.
