Wood floors and humidity, whether in Florida or anywhere else in the world, pose significant yet not insurmountable challenges. We all love the natural, calming look of wood flooring, but taking care of solid wood floors in Florida requires just a bit of extra consideration and maintenance.
How Humidity Affects Wood Flooring
Wood is hygroscopic, which means it absorbs and releases moisture from its surrounding environment.
- When indoor humidity levels are high, wood absorbs moisture. This causes swelling and warping.
- When indoor humidity levels are low, wood releases moisture. This results in shrinking, forming gaps, creaks, and other issues.
High or low humidity for a few hours or days typically won’t cause damage, but Florida is almost always humid. Florida ranks second in the United States for highest average relative humidity at 74.5%, just behind Alabama.
Long-Term Effects of High Humidity on Wood Floors
Over weeks, months, and years, elevated humidity can cause several issues:
- Cupping: The edges of the planks rise higher than the center
- Crowning: The center of the planks rises higher than the edges
- Buckling: The planks detached from the subflooring underneath
- Mold: Mold and mildew grow underneath and between planks
If you’re looking to install new wood flooring, consider choosing quarter-sawn cuts, which have greater stability and are less likely to cup or buckle. Wider planks and site-finished wood floors also tend to resist the negative effects of humidity; talk with one of our Design Associates to explore all your options.
What Is the Ideal Indoor Humidity for Wood Floors?
The best humidity for hardwood flooring is between 35-55%, which isn’t always easy in Florida. Protecting your wood floors requires proactive strategies, including:
- Running your air conditioning to remove excess humidity
- Using portable dehumidifiers in rooms with high humidity
- Maintaining consistent indoor temperatures day and night
What Is the Best Flooring for Humid Climates?
Love the look of wood but worried about humidity? You have options! Floor Coverings International® of West Florida Panhandle has a range of solutions tailor-made for Florida’s humid climate.
Engineered Wood
Made from layered planks of wood, engineered products are generally less susceptible to humidity and water damage. They’re topped with a real wood veneer, giving you the most realistic look possible; it’s real!
Vinyl Plank Flooring
Designed to recreate the natural grain patterns and ambiance of popular tree species, LVP is water-resistant, durable, and beautiful!
Laminate
Available in a range of shades and dimensions, laminate flooring mimics the look of wood flooring with many of the same performance benefits as vinyl, including scratch, dent, and stain resistance. It is also typically more budget-friendly.
You can enjoy the charm of wood flooring with a little preventative planning, or by choosing a material that marries form with function.
Elevate Your Home with Humidity-Resistant Flooring
Florida’s climate is a perk, not a problem. Floor Coverings International® of West Florida Panhandle offers an expansive collection of quality flooring products from the industry’s top brands, and we bring the selection to you! Shop from home with our Mobile Flooring Showroom® and see what’s possible.
If you’re ready to outfit your home in Florida with wood floors, schedule your free in-home consultation today.
Homepage