( Located in the 42nd Street Station Mall )
Wood is a lovely, natural material that can bring warmth and charm to any room. But, like all natural materials, wood changes over time, especially when exposed to light. This process, known as photosensitivity, is quite common and does not necessarily indicate that your wood flooring is damaged.
Many people appreciate the variations that occur when wood ages, since they can offer a distinct patina and charm. If you don't like the way your wood flooring is changing color, you can do a few things to stop or slow the process.
What is photosensitivity?
Photosensitivity refers to the extent to which wood changes color when exposed to light. A wood's photosensitivity determines how quickly it changes color when exposed to light. The term "photochemical reaction" refers to the process by which light energy causes chemical reactions to occur.
The most common example is that sunshine causes the skin to tan. The photochemical process in wood occurs significantly more slowly and is poorly understood. However, it is known that some extractives in the wood cause photosensitivity.
The most common alteration is that the wood will darken in color. The change will be determined by the type of wood, finish, and amount of sunlight exposure.
Do some woods change color more than others?
Yes, different types of wood change colors at varying speeds.
For example, light-colored woods like birch and maple change color faster than dark woods like walnut and mahogany. This is because lighter woods have a higher degree of transparency, which means the wood grain is more visible and reacts to sunlight and other environmental factors.
Dark woods, on the other hand, are less transparent and hence less impacted by sunshine. This is why they frequently have a more vibrant hue that lasts longer.
Here are a few examples:
So, when you choose your wood floor, seek professional guidance on how its color may change over time. And don't be upset if your new fresh wood floor is not the same exact hue as the aged sample floor you viewed in the store!
How can I keep my hardwood floor from turning color? Rearrange Your Rugs Periodically
If you have rugs on your wood floors, rotating them on a regular basis will help keep the color from shifting unevenly. As we've seen, the sun will naturally affect the sections of your floor where it touches most directly, so shifting your rugs around can help maintain the color more even.
If you are still concerned about the color of your floor, you can hire a professional to get it refinished. This will offer you a fresh start and ensure that your floor looks great.
Install blinds or curtains for windows.
You can use window curtains to filter sunlight and prevent bleaching. Curtains and shutters can help block off some of the UV radiation that causes fading.
Rearrange your furniture periodically.
To keep your wood floor from changing color due to UV light exposure, try rearranging your furniture regularly. This will help to distribute the light evenly and prevent any areas from receiving excessive exposure.
Thank you for learning more about hardwood flooring with us. Give us a call today at (503)989-8997 or visit our website for more information. We’ve got your back at Rejuvenation Floor & Design in Portland, Oregon!
Phone: (503) 989-8997
Flooring Showroom: 2000 NE 42nd Ave #B
( Located in the 42nd Street Station Mall )
Portland, Oregon 97213-1357
Mon - Fri: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
RGC - Residential General Contractor License: 189522
General Contractor License: REJUVCL901DW
Certified Lead-Based Paint Renovation (LBPR)
WA UBI License: 602997950
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Beaverton | Canby | Clackamas | Damascus | Estacada | Gladstone | Gresham | Lake Oswego | Milwaukie | Oregon City | Sandy | Scappoose | Sherwood | St. Helens | Tigard | Tualatin | Welches | Wilsonville | Zig Zag
Beaverton | Canby | Clackamas | Damascus | Estacada | Gladstone | Gresham | Lake Oswego | Milwaukie | Oregon City | Sandy | Scappoose | Sherwood | St. Helens
Tigard | Tualatin | Welches | Wilsonville | Zig Zag