Learn more about seasonal care
Seasonal Care
Humidity and ventilation are critical considerations for wood floors, especially in the first year. Keep the relative humidity in your home between 45 and 50 percent to minimize the natural expansion and contraction if the wood.
Dry air shrinks the wood, making cracks more visible. In solid 2 1/4'' wide oak floors, cracks might reach the width of a dime, though wider boards can reveal even wider cracks. If the humidity level is persistent at 35 percent or less, prevent excess drying and possible wood shrinkage by:
- boiling a pan of water
- turning off the bathroom exhaust fan after a shower
- opening the dishwasher after the rinse cycle
- placing a pan of water in the furnace fan compartment
- hanging wet laundry to dry in the basement
- or installing a humidifier to maintain a steady moisture level in the house
In humid summer months, too much moisture can cause the wood to swell to the point it buckles. Your air conditioner can act as a dehumidifier; make sure it's operating within the 45 to 50 percent humidity range. In extreme humidity, periodically turn on the heating to reduce the humidity.
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