A hardwood floor that is too dry can cause problems such as gaps between the planks, splintering, and cupping. The ideal moisture content for a hardwood floor is between 6% and 8%. If the moisture content falls below 6%, the floor may become too dry and brittle, leading to the problems mentioned above.
There are a few things you can do to help prevent your hardwood floor from becoming too dry. First, make sure to keep the humidity in your home at a comfortable level. The ideal humidity level for a hardwood floor is between 30% and 50%. You can use a humidifier to help increase the humidity in your home.
Second, avoid exposing your hardwood floor to direct sunlight. Sunlight can damage the finish on your floor and cause it to dry out more quickly. If you have large windows in your home, consider using curtains or blinds to block out the sun.
Finally, be careful not to over-clean your hardwood floor. Over-cleaning can remove the natural oils that protect the floor and cause it to dry out more quickly. When you do clean your floor, use a mild cleaner and a soft cloth.
If you notice that your hardwood floor is starting to show signs of dryness, such as gaps between the planks or splintering, you should take steps to increase the humidity in your home and protect your floor from further damage.