How Long Do Hardwood Floors Last?
Before deciding on a flooring option, it’s important to consider more than just its appearance and overall cost. In fact, many forget to account for the day-to-day activities their floor will endure over its lifespan. So, do hardwood floors last? Yes, hardwood flooring can survive for as long as it’s properly maintained. But here’s what you need to know first –
Scroll down to see a comparison of hardwood flooring’s lifespan to other flooring options
How Long Do Hardwood Floors Last?
Short Answer – For as long as they are properly cared for.
Long Answer – While one of the oldest hardwood floors is over three hundred years old, that is a rare case. That’s not to say hardwood floors can’t last that long, but rather it’s rare to find floors that haven’t been ripped out or been exposed to damaging conditions for over three centuries.
More commonly seen are hardwood floors over a century old. Thousands of homes across America feature their original hardwood flooring; much of it in nearly pristine condition.
So, hardwood flooring can survive for as long as it’s maintained.
How Can I Make My Hardwood Floors Last?
To help guarantee your floors last many decades or even centuries, it’s important to follow a few basic tips –
- Install a floor with a thicker wear layer
- Maintain proper humidity levels (Between 35-55%)
- Keep consistent indoor temperatures (Between 60° and 80° F)
- Prevent water and liquids from making contact with your floors. If spills do happen, make sure they are fully cleaned up as soon as possible
How Long Do Different Flooring Types Last
The average lifespan of different flooring types can range from just a few years on average to decades.
- Carpet – 5-10 Years
- Vinyl – 10-30 Years
- Laminate – 10-30 Years
- Porcelain Tile – 10-50 Years
- Hardwood Flooring – Over 100 Years (with refinishing completed during that time)
Overall
As mentioned above, hardwood floors can last a very long time with proper care. This longevity as well as their versatility has helped them become the most popular flooring option for new homes. So, while you may not be planning on keeping them in your home for the next three hundred years, plan on many decades with them by your feet.