A Guide to Timber Flooring and Humidity
18 Mar 2024
Timber flooring offers an elegant and timeless look to any space, but like all wood products, it requires careful consideration and maintenance, particularly concerning humidity levels. Understanding how humidity affects timber flooring is crucial for maintaining its integrity and ensuring its longevity.
Read more to discover the effects humidity can have on timber flooring and how to mitigate them.
The Impact of Humidity on Engineered Timber Flooring
Humidity fluctuations can lead to various issues with any type of timber flooring, including bowing, shrinking, and cupping. Wood is a hygroscopic material, meaning it naturally absorbs and releases moisture in response to changes in ambient conditions. High humidity causes timber to swell and expand, while low humidity results in contraction. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and overheating from underfloor heating systems can exacerbate these effects.
Timber flooring is a popular choice for elevated kitchen designs and when installed and maintained correctly, delivers exceptional performance and longevity. Pictured: Iron Chef House, SA | Havwoods HW3577 Auburn Herringbone timber flooring | Architect: Das Studio
Common Issues Caused by Humidity Fluctuations
Understanding the potential consequences of humidity fluctuations is essential for ensuring proper maintenance and longevity of your timber flooring:
Warping: High humidity levels can cause boards to warp, resulting in a concave or convex shape.
Cupping: Uneven moisture exposure can cause the edges of boards to rise higher than the center, leading to a cupped appearance.
Gapping/Cracking: Dry conditions may cause wood to shrink, resulting in gaps between boards and cracks along growth rings and board ends.
Delamination: In extreme cases, engineered board layers can separate, leading to adhesive bond failure with the subfloor and potential structural issues.
Effective Humidity Control Methods
To mitigate the impact of humidity on engineered timber flooring, several control methods can be implemented:
Maintain Consistent Indoor Climate: Use humidifiers, air conditioners, or natural ventilation to stabilize indoor humidity levels. Regular monitoring with a hygrometer helps ensure optimal conditions.
Acclimate Flooring Prior to Installation: Allow engineered timber flooring to acclimate to the installation environment for at least 72 hours to minimize the risk of subsequent issues.
Proper Subfloor Preparation: Ensure the subfloor is adequately prepared, and consider using a moisture barrier to prevent rising moisture from affecting the flooring.
Choose Engineered Flooring with a Stable Core: Opt for flooring with a stable core material, such as natural timber or plywood, to reduce the risk of warping and movement.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance: Keep the flooring clean and free from debris to prevent moisture from being trapped against the wood surface.
Havwoods timber flooring products are of the highest quality and standards and offer a product you can rely on. To ensure your selected product is suitable for its intended purpose and space, speak with your Havwoods consultant prior to purchase. Our knowledgeable and experienced team will ensure your product meets your required needs.
Havwoods also stock a range of installation and care and maintenance products to provide you with the tools and information you need to ensure you beautiful new flooring stands the test of time. These products can be purchased at the time of placing your order.
Melbourne Penthouse featuring Havwoods HW16002 Pallido Herringbone timber flooring
Preserving the Beauty and Longevity of Engineered Timber Flooring
Regular maintenance, proper acclimation, and controlling the indoor environment are essential factors in mitigating the effects of humidity and preserving the integrity of installed timber floors. With careful attention to these considerations, engineered timber flooring can continue to enhance the ambiance of any space while withstanding the test of time.
Havwoods timber flooring is a popular choice for both residential and commercial spaces, known for its durability and aesthetic appeal. By understanding the impact of humidity and implementing effective control methods, homeowners and businesses can ensure their timber flooring maintains its beauty and longevity for years to come.
Visit your local Havwoods showroom or get in touch for more information on Havwoods timber flooring for your project.
