Can hardwood flooring be too dry?
Yes. Although many talk about hardwood flooring and excess moisture, wood can be just as negatively affected when it gets too dry.
Any flooring is a significant investment in the home. But, with a few simple tips, you'll enjoy the natural beauty–and many benefits–of wood floors for years to come.
Not just shrinkage and gapping
A dry floor also causes expansion and cupping. That's because it tries to adjust by absorbing moisture from higher humidity areas. So, it still expands and cups.
There can also be a rebound effect, which is why we say there should be no excess air conditioning or heat when you acclimate.
If the hardwood floors sit in a dry area that later becomes moister, it'll absorb the humidity like a sponge. Then it will expand and be otherwise distorted.
How to acclimate
Acclimation is a pre-installation process that allows the wood floors to adjust to their new environment.
The planks should sit on the floor or in opened boxes in the room in which they are installed. It's typically done for 48-72 hours.
The room must be at average temperature; it should be 65 to 75 degrees F with moisture levels between 35-55%.
Questions? Feel free to visit us when shopping for hardwood flooring in Woodstock, GA.
Benefits of wood floors
Aside from their warmth and charm, hardwood floors can work with any decor. They look as good in rustic environments as in modern urban ones.
They also last for decades, sometimes up to 100 years. That translates to few, if any, repair and replacement costs. It also makes them cost-effective.
Finally–but maybe most importantly–they add value to a property. You'll see 70% to 80% of the cost reflected in your property values.
Metro Atlanta’s top flooring source
At Cherokee Floor Covering, we know hardwood floors. We've been around for more than 30 years, and each member of our staff has at least 15 years of experience in the industry.
Visit us in Woodstock, GA, where you'll see beautiful hardwood flooring like Chalmers by Palmetto Road or Homestead Charm Walnut by Mohawk. We work with homeowners and businesses in Woodstock, Marietta, Canton, Acworth, and Kennesaw, GA.
