Living in the upstate region for homeowners means choosing the best floors for the humid climate of South Carolina. The weather here stays warm through the summer months and often in the spring and fall too, so your flooring needs to be able to handle the additional moisture that you’ll have in your home.
The best floors for the humid climate here should be able to withstand not just the high moisture levels, but also the temperature fluctuations that are frequent.
Some Flooring Options For South Carolina + Humid Climates
Below we’ve listed a few options for flooring if you live in a humid climate such as here in SC:
Tile Flooring. Tile flooring is made from ceramic or porcelain. It’s highly resistant to moisture and humidity, and it’s durable and easy to clean. You can find tiles in a variety of styles and colors. Tile flooring is cold to the touch, which is nice on warm days. It does, however, require proper grout sealing to prevent mold and mildew problems.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Flooring. LVP flooring is among the best flooring types for the humid climate of South Carolina. It’s 100% waterproof, and very resistant to humidity. You can mimic the look of wood or stone with LVP flooring, it’s comfortable underfoot, and best of all, it’s affordable.
If you do choose LVP flooring, be sure to have a professional install it to prevent warping and gaps.
Engineered Hardwood. Engineered hardwood flooring is better at resisting warping than typical hardwood flooring in high humidity. It can offer a natural wood look. Be sure to use high quality flooring products for a durable finish, and avoid prolonged exposure to water.
Bamboo Flooring. Bamboo is more water resistant than traditional hardwood. It’s also sustainable and eco-friendly, and you can use it for a durable and stylish look. If you choose bamboo flooring, opt for strand-woven bamboo for more durability, and have it treated for moisture resistance.
Concrete Flooring. Concrete is completely moisture-proof when properly sealed, and it’s ideal for modern or industrial aesthetics. It can be stained, polished or textured, and it’s also cool to the touch underfoot.
Cork Flooring. Cork is resistant to mold and mildew, it’s comfortable and soft, and it’s naturally insulating and sustainable. With cork flooring, though, you will need to seal it regularly to maintain its water resistance. Cork is also susceptible to fading, so you should avoid having it in direct sunlight.
Laminate Flooring. Laminate flooring is very affordable, and you can choose a wide variety of styles. The newer laminate options are moisture-resistant, but they are not ideal for areas with standing water.
Tips For Choosing Flooring in Humid Climate
There are a few more things you should consider when you’re ready to install flooring in your South Carolina home and in our humid climate:
First, you should install vapor barriers, especially with ground level installations, to prevent moisture seepage.
Second, you should have a dehumidifier in areas with flooring to maintain a humidity level that prevents damage.
Finally, be sure to have trained professionals install your flooring properly. Your local flooring installation team understands the challenges of South Carolina climates and can install your flooring accordingly.
Are you a local homeowner looking for the best floors for the humid climate of South Carolina? Reach out to Upstate Flooring Direct. We’ll install the ideal flooring for you, at a price that works for your budget. Contact us today to find out more.
