Exposed wood has darkened

Original color under the heat vent

Color change

Severe color change

Severe color change

Severe color change

Severe color change

Severe color change

Exposed wood has lightened

Color change

Exposed wood has darkened/yellowed

Color change

Color change

Color change

Color Change (Hardwood Flooring)

Floor Detective® Claims and Conditions Guide

Summary

Color change in hardwood flooring is a natural appearance-related characteristic that develops over time as wood is exposed to light, oxygen, environmental conditions, and normal aging. Depending on species, finish type, and exposure conditions, hardwood flooring may darken, lighten, yellow, amber, or gradually shift in tone throughout its service life. Exposure differences commonly cause some areas of the floor to age at different rates, especially beneath rugs, furniture, or areas receiving direct sunlight. These changes reflect normal chemical reactions within the wood and finish system rather than structural flooring failure. Variation in appearance commonly relates to exposure history, species characteristics, and environmental conditions rather than manufacturing defect or installation error. In the absence of staining, finish breakdown, or contamination, color change alone does not independently establish product nonconformance. See also Water Damage, Peeling Finish, and Hardwood Floor Problems for broader context.

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