What are the best flooring materials for hot and humid climates? When you live in the Sunshine State – aka the Humidity State! – this is a critical question to ask. Let’s find your answers.
Unlike many other parts of the nation, Florida has subtropical weather marked by extreme humidity all year round. This will shorten the lifespan of your floor. The constant exposure to humidity is one of the key reasons why many flooring materials do not last long in this climate. Because installation of flooring is time-consuming and a labor-intensive affair, it is essential to choose a suitable flooring material to begin with. By selecting the best flooring materials for hot and humid climates, you not only save money in the long run but enjoy exceptional results that will look fantastic for years to come.
If you are considering humid climate flooring for your Florida property, here are some materials that stand up to constant humidity.
Porcelain Tile
Porcelain tile is an excellent choice for humid climate flooring. It rocks damp climates with ease due to its density, which allows very little water to be absorbed from the humidity. Porcelain is a hard material that is also durable – it’s harder even than ceramic. Due to its nature, it provides myriad avenues for your creative side to take over and design patterns to make your dreams come true for your flooring.
Concrete
Concrete, at first thought, may not seem like a glamourous choice of flooring, but today it certainly can be with all the stains, textures, and creative finishes that can be used with it. It is almost carefree when it comes to maintenance and, if it is properly sealed, it absorbs hardly any moisture at all. It is an especially great choice for the hotter parts of Florida as it stays so cool. Due to the fact that it hardly absorbs any moisture at all, the risk of mold or mildew growing is greatly reduced. This will rate high on the list of allergy sufferers.
Luxury Vinyl Tile
The new version of luxury vinyl tile (aka LVT) seen today is much better than the vinyl tile of yesteryear. LVT is great for so many spaces and places. While many people like the look of hardwood flooring, it can be expensive to maintain – especially in a place like South Florida. Humidity and moisture can do terrible things to hardwood flooring. Luxury vinyl tile can mimic the look of hardwood (along with a number of other flooring materials) with none of the downsides. LVT is also easy to maintain.
Rubber, like concrete, may need a minute to gain your attention, but if you are an “out of the box thinker,” you’ve probably already discovered the great flooring material that rubber can be. Rubber is another material that works great in damp climates because it does not absorb moisture. It is also typically easy on budgets. Rubber flooring can come in a variety of colors and finishes these days – you’d be surprised! Take another look at rubber flooring.
Bamboo
Bamboo has long been used as flooring in Asia and the Far East, where the weather can be similar to Florida. Bamboo flooring has been gaining popularity in the United States because it is durable, easy to clean and maintain, and resistant to scratches and humidity.
The key to bamboo flooring is to purchase the right quality. There are several species of bamboo and not all are equally moisture resistant or durable. You will need to consult with a flooring expert for guidance when it comes to the selection of bamboo flooring.
CONCLUSION
Installing the correct flooring type is essential if you live in Florida because the high moisture content and heat can reduce its lifespan. Selecting the best flooring materials for hot and humid climates depends on affordability, the presence of HVAC in the home, pets, foot traffic, and aesthetics. If you need help selecting the right flooring for your next project, contact Florida’s most trusted experts, East Coast Flooring & Interiors. Call them today at 1-954-626-8053 to learn more.