It’s summer in Florida, and that means heat and humidity. In the sunshine state, our homes may not have to stand up to the ice of snow in winter, but they can be put to the test in summer. In this post, we discuss the best flooring options for a hot and humid climate. This advice doubles for rooms that are consistently exposed to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
Bamboo
Bamboo comes from high humidity forests, so the material in naturally well-adapted to hold up to moisture. It’s also a sustainable flooring choice that costs half as much as traditional hardwoods.
Stone
Stone is not only an incredibly durable material in terms of moisture, it also stays cool in the heat, is easy to clean, and holds color over years of use.
Porcelain Tile
Water-resistant, easy to clean, and durable – porcelain tile is a great choice for humid climates. When installing porcelain tile in a humid place like Florida, it’s important to seal the grout, which is a porous material and water can seep through if not properly sealed.
Luxury Vinyl Planks
Luxury vinyl planks are categorized as a resilient flooring material, meaning they experience minimal changes in response to humidity. They are a water-resistant option that is perfect for wet spaces like bathrooms.
Engineered Wood
If you enjoy the beauty of natural wood floors, consider using engineered wood to protect your investment against humidity. The layered construction of engineered wood planks results in less expansion and contraction in response to humidity.
Laminate
If you choose a laminate flooring, go for one with a high-pressure laminate (HPL). These laminates are made with a special glue that reduces moisture absorption.
Final Thoughts
Almost any type of flooring can be installed in our Florida climate if you take the appropriate measures to ensure that expansion and contraction and mold are kept to a minimum or avoided altogether. Before you install your next floor, let our professionals guide you to a smart installation that will keep your floor in good condition for years to come.