They say the kitchen is the heart of any home. It's the place where family members get together to share food and stories. It’s only right that it gets the beautiful flooring it deserves.

There are arguments for and against hardwood flooring in kitchens. While they’re reasonably tough, they can be susceptible to water and impact damage. But because they look stunning, a lot of people choose to install them in their kitchen — despite the obvious drawbacks.

The average kitchen is subjected to more punishment and traffic than any other room in the home. A range of hazards can put your hardwood floor at risk. But once you understand these hazards, you can do something about them.

Spillages

Whether you’re preparing food or eating it, there’s always the chance of spillages and food debris. A dropped glass of wine or an overheating pan can leave big puddles of water on your floor — which can cause serious damage unless you act quickly.

The first thing to do is wipe up the spillage with a clean microfibre cloth. Once you’ve removed the excess liquid, take steps to dry the floor fully. Use bicarbonate of soda to draw up moisture that has found its way into gaps and crevices.

Changes in the Temperature

Aside from the bathroom, the kitchen is exposed to more temperature changes than anywhere else in the average family home. The constant heating and cooling caused by cooking can play havoc with hardwood flooring. Humidity and heat cause wood planks to expand, which can lead to gaps. And when the planks contract in colder temperatures, they can leave gaps, cracks or cupping.

Try to keep your kitchen at a constant temperature. This will be very difficult if you cook a lot. However, opening doors and windows to maximise ventilation will help. Consider installing an extraction fan, too.

Faulty Kitchen Appliances

Washing machines, dishwashers and fridge freezers all have the potential to cause floods in the kitchen when they malfunction. There are also water pipes to think about, which can burst during particularly cold spells of weather.

Remain vigilant around all your kitchen appliances and pipework. Check for hidden leaks regularly. And when you find them, clean them up immediately. This is why it’s always a good idea to keep a stock of absorbent kitchen towels close by.

Your Hardwood Floor’s Biggest Enemy is Water

The finish you choose for your hardwood floor is all that stands in the way of premature water damage. Protect your investment by hiring a hardwood repair service or flooring installation specialist to ensure your floor is fully protected. Spending a little extra on a high-quality finish today could save you a lot of money tomorrow.