While it’s far less damaging than relentless humidity, desert climes take their toll on flooring as well. Las Vegas’s combination of extreme heat and dry, arid air can negatively impact the longevity of some flooring materials. Explore the best flooring options for Las Vegas homeowners, plus tips on finding wood floors that can take the desert heat.
How Hot, Dry Air Affects Your Flooring
There’s nothing forgiving about the hot desert sun. The combination of arid air, heat, and direct sunlight affects various types of flooring differently. While the consequences vary based on several factors, the reaction of certain flooring materials means some are better suited to dry climates than others.
Desert-Friendly Flooring
While it’s far less damaging than relentless humidity, desert climes take their toll on flooring as well. Las Vegas’s combination of extreme heat and dry, arid air can negatively impact the longevity of some flooring materials. Explore the best flooring options for Las Vegas homeowners, plus tips on finding wood floors that can take the desert heat.
- Ceramic and porcelain tile: Ideally suited for the desert, tile flooring isn’t impacted by heat or dry air. Tile won’t expand or contract in hot or cold weather. Since tile absorbs and retains less heat than many other materials, it helps keep indoor spaces cool.
- Natural stone: Much like tile, stone won’t retain heat and has no vulnerability in dry climates. Some stone products feature textured ridges that add interesting depth to a space and add traction underfoot.
- Vinyl flooring: Luxury vinyl plank and vinyl tile are heat-resistant and provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional tile and stone options. Vinyl floors won’t crack or warp, and most products are fade-resistant to hold up well in direct sunlight. There are dozens of designs and patterns, many of which mimic the look of hardwood or tile flooring at a considerably lower price point.
- Engineered wood flooring: While solid wood is the premium option, engineered materials are usually the best wood floors for desert climates. Comprised of layered, bonded wood planks, engineered wood is much less prone to warping or expanding in heat or dry conditions.
- Laminate: As one of the most affordable materials on the market, laminate is heat-resistant and holds up well in dry climates. Be sure to use a laminate flooring with a high wear rating for busy areas of the home; we’ll help you make an informed choice during your free, in-home consultation.
Can Hardwood Hold Up in Dry Climates?
Solid wood flooring is highly prized and a beautiful addition to any home; however, homeowners in desert climates need to understand and effectively manage their flooring. Low humidity causes solid wood floors to shrink, crack, and develop sizable gaps over time. Management requires regular maintenance, including monitoring indoor humidity levels and selecting the appropriate tree species.
Wood is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture when humidity is high and releases it when humidity is low. The fluctuating moisture content causes the wood to contract, exposing gaps between planks or causing unsightly cracks.
Some solid hardwoods are less likely to dry out than others. Look for oak, maple, or acacia flooring if possible, and protect your floors by keeping indoor humidity levels between 35% and 55% year-round.
Finally, give your wood time to acclimate. At Floor Coverings International® of Las Vegas West, we typically allow wood flooring several days to acclimate before installation, allowing it time to equalize moisture content to the environment.
Find the Best Flooring for Your Las Vegas Home
As a locally owned flooring store, we understand the demands that the desert climate puts on your floors. Count on our friendly, knowledgeable staff to help you select the ideal flooring for any area of your home, tailored to your preferences and budget. You’ll enjoy every step of the stress-free process and love the results! For long-lasting floors and an exceptional experience.
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