If you intend to install wood in your new home you need to be aware of the following.

Moisture And Humidity

It’s well known that wood floors react to moisture and humidity. New builds tend to hold quite a bit of moisture until the owner has the heating system fully operational and the home gets a chance to dry out. New homes are also well insulated these days which means they hold more moisture. It is also well known that engineered hardwood reacts less to moisture and is therefore a better option for new homes in our opinion.

Maintain 40-50% Humidity

Whether you go for solid or engineered, it is recommended that homeowners maintain a humidity level of between 40% – 50% within the living areas prior to installing your hardwood floor.  This will help to prevent the devastating affects high humidity can have on your flooring.

Keep Your House Temperature At 22°C

Whilst it is very important to maintain humidity levels, it’s just as important to make sure that the plaster, drywall and concrete are also dry. To help the process, make sure the heating system is running at a steady 22°C for at least two weeks prior to delivery of your hardwood/engineered hardwood. If you’re installing in the basement, the concrete should be cured for at least 30 days.

If you follow these guidelines it will help to protect your wood from moisture expansion, cupping and contraction due to extreme levels of low or high humidity.