Expansion in Wood Flooring

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Does engineered hardwood flooring expand and contract with moisture?

Expansion in Wood Flooring

Before you weigh the pros and cons of both a solid hardwood floor and an engineered hardwood floor, keep in mind this one factor: Both solid and engineered hardwood floor will expand and contract over time based on exposure to heat and moisture.

Solid flooring experiences expansion and contraction with each plank. Gaps between the planks become visible (more so on lighter colored flooring). Recognizing that hardwood floor dimensions will be slightly affected by varying levels of humidity within your building, care should be taken to control humidity levels within the 35-55% range. To protect your investment and to assure that your floors provide lasting satisfaction, we have provided our recommendations below.

•Heating Season (Dry): A humidifier is recommended to prevent excessive shrinkage in hardwood floors due to low humidity levels. Wood stoves and electric heat tend to create very dry conditions.

•Non-Heating Season (Humid, Wet: Proper humidity levels can be maintained by use of an air conditioner, dehumidifier, or by turning on your heating system periodically during the summer months. Avoid excessive exposure to water from tracking during periods of inclement weather. Do not obstruct in any way the expansion joint around the perimeter of your floor.

   

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