5 Common Flooring Mistakes to Avoid in Maui Homes

May 8, 2025

Installing new flooring is one of the most impactful ways to upgrade a home, but if you're living in Maui, the island's tropical environment brings unique challenges that can turn a dream renovation into a costly mistake.

Whether you’re building a new house in Upcountry or updating a condo in Kihei, here are five common flooring mistakes to avoid in Maui homes, plus tips on how to make the right choices for island living.

1. Choosing the Wrong Material for the Climate

One of the most frequent mistakes is using flooring that isn’t suited for humid, coastal conditions. Solid hardwood, cheap laminate, or carpet without proper backing can absorb moisture, leading to warping, mold, or mildew.

What to do instead: Opt for moisture-resistant flooring, like luxury vinyl plank (LVP), tile, or engineered hardwood designed for high humidity.

2. Skipping the Moisture Barrier

With Maui’s high humidity and potential for coastal flooding or water intrusion, skipping a moisture barrier during installation can cause long-term damage—especially with wood or laminate products.

Tip: Always ask your installer about moisture barriers or vapor underlayments, particularly if your home is near sea level or doesn’t have air conditioning.

3. Not Planning for Sand and Salt

Island life often means sandy feet and salty air. Without the right flooring and maintenance plan, these elements can scratch, stain, or degrade your floors faster than expected.

4. Ignoring UV Exposure

Sunlight in Maui is intense year-round, and UV rays streaming through windows can cause some flooring types to fade or discolor over time.

Fix: Use flooring with UV-resistant finishes or natural fade-resistant materials like stone and tile. Consider using UV film on windows or shades during peak sunlight hours.

5. DIYing Without Local Knowledge

It’s tempting to go the DIY route, but flooring installation in Maui often requires local knowledge—like how to handle subfloor moisture, navigate uneven concrete slabs, or comply with Hawaii’s building codes.

Advice: Even if you're a skilled DIYer, consult a local flooring expert in Maui to avoid costly errors and ensure your investment lasts.

Final Thoughts

Your flooring should reflect both your style and the environment you live in. Avoiding these common mistakes can save you from frustration, unexpected costs, and premature replacement. Take the time to research, plan, and choose materials that work with—not against—Maui’s tropical lifestyle.