Moisture can wreak havoc on your hardwood floors, causing them to warp, buckle, and even grow mold. That’s why it’s crucial to keep an eye on your floor’s moisture levels and take steps to correct any problems as soon as possible.
The ideal moisture content for a hardwood floor is between 6% and 9%. Readings above 12% indicate that the floor is too wet and may be at risk for mold growth. Readings below 6% indicate that the floor is too dry and may be at risk for cracking or warping.
If you’re concerned about the moisture content of your hardwood floor, you can purchase a moisture meter to take readings yourself. These meters are relatively inexpensive and easy to use. Simply insert the probes into the floor and read the display.
If you find that your floor’s moisture content is too high, there are several things you can do to lower it. One option is to use a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the air. You can also open windows and doors to ventilate the room. If the moisture content is very high, you may need to hire a professional to dry out the floor.
If you find that your floor’s moisture content is too low, there are several things you can do to raise it. One option is to use a humidifier to add moisture to the air. You can also close windows and doors to prevent moisture from escaping. If the moisture content is very low, you may need to hire a professional to humidify the floor.