Wood floors are beautiful, but they don’t always handle summer weather well. Changes in humidity and temperature can make them expand, contract, or even warp if you’re not careful. Here’s what happens to wooden floors in summer and how to keep them in great shape.
How Wood Floors React to Summer Weather
1. Humidity Makes Wood Expand
Warm, humid air causes wood to absorb moisture and swell. This can lead to:
• Cupping – Edges of planks rising higher than the centre.
• Buckling – Boards lifting off the subfloor in extreme cases.
2. Dry Air Causes Shrinking
If you crank up the air conditioning, the dry air can make wood floors shrink, leading to:
• Gaps – Small spaces forming between planks.
• Cracking – In severe cases, the wood may split.
3. Sunlight Can Fade the Colour
Direct sunlight can cause fading or darkening, depending on the type of wood. Over time, UV rays break down the finish and change the wood’s natural tone.
How to Protect Your Floors
• Control humidity – Keep indoor humidity between 35% and 55% using a humidifier or dehumidifier.
• Avoid extreme temperatures – an ambient temperature of about 20-22 degrees celsius is ideal.
• Use curtains or UV window filters – Reduce direct sunlight to prevent fading.
• Clean carefully – Use a dry mop or a slightly damp cloth; avoid excess water.
• Allow for natural movement – Leave small expansion gaps when installing new floors to prevent damage.
• Use finishing products with UV protection – when the time comes to have your floors renewed with a sand and refinish, ensure an oil or lacquer with built-in UV protection is used.
Final Thoughts
Wood floors react to summer’s heat and humidity, but with a little care, you can prevent major issues. Keep the air balanced, protect from direct sunlight, and clean gently to keep your floors looking great year-round.
