UV Oxidation of Parquet Flooring: What You Need to Know Before and After Installation
When choosing hardwood flooring, people often think about the wood species, the finish, or the installation method. But there’s a natural phenomenon that also deserves your full attention: UV oxidation. This process, which changes the wood’s color over time, begins as soon as the hardwood flooring is exposed to light—whether it’s installed or simply stored in a room. Design Parquet explains everything.
What Is Wood Oxidation?
Oxidation is a natural chemical reaction caused by a material’s exposure to light, specifically ultraviolet (UV) rays. It results in a gradual change in a material’s natural color. With wood, some species develop a patina, but generally, they darken or take on warmer tones. This occurs very quickly after the hardwood floor is installed.
This phenomenon is completely natural and unavoidable, but it’s important to be aware of it so you can anticipate the aesthetic changes in your hardwood floor.
We therefore say that wood “develops a patina” when its color changes due to UV exposure. The light can come from the sun or from the moon’s reflection. After a few months, the process naturally levels off and the change stops. In other words, the color evens out across the planks.
Wood Flooring Changes Colour Even Before Installation
Contrary to what one might think, hardwood flooring begins to oxidize as soon as it is exposed to light, even if it hasn’t been installed yet. If you store your planks in a well-lit room, whether during the day or at night, certain areas may receive more light than others (for example, if they aren’t covered in the same way), which can lead to visible differences in color once the flooring is installed.
Tip: Store your hardwood flooring wisely
To avoid these discrepancies:
- Store the planks flat, away from direct sunlight or moonlight.
- Keep the original packaging on the planks as much as possible until installation.
Once installed, the natural oxidation process continues
Once installed, the parquet continues to change under the influence of UV rays. Areas exposed to light (near windows, under skylights) may darken more quickly than those protected by a rug, furniture, or a curtain.
This is completely normal. Over time, the color of the parquet floor tends to even out naturally, but this can take several months or even more than a year, depending on the wood species, finish, and exposure.
Wenge – Downpart exposed
Oak. – Jasmin Parquet – Downpart exposed
Oak – Badiane Parquet – Downpart exposed
Which wood species are most susceptible to oxidation?
Each type of wood reacts differently to light:
- Oak tends to take on a slight golden hue.
- Walnut darkens noticeably.
- Beech and merbau are also susceptible.
Exotic woods, on the other hand, are the most susceptible to changes caused by UV exposure.
The Role of Tannins
Tannin is a natural substance found in certain woods, particularly oak. It triggers chemical reactions, leading to color changes and possible staining when it comes into contact with certain materials or products.
Exposure to light triggers the oxidation of tannins, which visibly alters the wood’s color.
Conclusion: Plan Ahead to Better Appreciate the Result
This is a natural phenomenon, whether it involves wood or any other material. White paint exposed to the sun will also develop a patina. It’s easy to notice this when you take down a picture frame that’s been hanging on the wall since the painting was done.
By being aware that wood develops a patina, it’s easier to envision your future interior. Hardwood flooring, with its solid wood surface, is a living material that evolves according to its environment. That’s what gives it its charm, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
Merbau – Exposed on the right
Jatoba – Exposed on the right
Thermo Ash – Exposed on the right
