Maintaining Engineered Plywood-Core Hardwood Floors: A Guide to Humidity Control

Introduction: Humidity Control for Engineered Hardwood Floors

Engineered hardwood flooring with a plywood core is designed for durability and resistance to moisture fluctuations, making it a popular choice for homeowners. However, while it outperforms solid hardwood in stability, humidity control remains essential to prevent subtle damage like swelling, gaps, or cracks.

In this guide, we’ll explore why humidity matters, how to manage seasonal changes, and practical maintenance tips to ensure your engineered wood floors remain flawless for years to come.

Why Humidity Matters for Engineered Hardwood Floors

Wood naturally expands and contracts in response to moisture changes—even in engineered planks. While plywood-core flooring is more stable than solid hardwood, it still requires a balanced indoor humidity level.

🔹 High humidity (above 55%) can lead to slight swelling at the edges.

🔹 Low humidity (below 35%) may cause fine gaps or minor cracks.

Keep your engineered hardwood floors in top condition by monitoring indoor humidity levels with a hygrometer

The Ideal Humidity Range for Engineered Hardwood Floor

To keep your floors in peak condition, maintain an indoor humidity level between 35% and 55% throughout the year. This simple step prevents expansion, contraction, and long-term wear.

Managing Seasonal Changes: Best Practices for Every Climate

Humidity levels fluctuate with the seasons, making proactive adjustments crucial for floor longevity.

In Humid Conditions (Summer & Rainy Seasons)

During warm and rainy months, excess moisture in the air can cause engineered hardwood floors to absorb water and slightly swell.

✅ Use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture.

✅ Run air conditioning to regulate humidity levels.

✅ Clean up spills immediately—even though the plywood core is moisture-resistant, standing water should never linger.

✅ Place absorbent mats at entrances to capture rainwater from shoes.

In Dry Conditions (Winter & Heated Indoors)

Cold weather and indoor heating can reduce humidity, drying out the wood and potentially causing small gaps.

✅ Use a humidifier to maintain moisture levels above 35%.

✅ Avoid excessive heating—use moderate heat settings and add moisture to the air.

✅ Check for early signs of shrinkage and adjust humidity accordingly.

By adjusting your home’s humidity management strategies based on the season, you can protect your floors from unnecessary stress and damage.

Practical Humidity-Related Maintenance Tips for Engineered Hardwood Floors

Beyond humidity control, small daily habits can extend the lifespan of your engineered hardwood flooring.

✅ Track Humidity Levels

💡 Install a hygrometer to monitor indoor humidity. Affordable and easy to use, it helps you maintain the ideal range year-round.

✅ Act Before It’s Too Late

⚡ Turn on your dehumidifier when humidity nears 50% in summer.

⚡ Start your humidifier when levels drop to 40% in winter.

✅ Prevent Moisture Intrusion

🚪 Use entryway mats to absorb rain and snow before they reach your floors.

🚫 Avoid wet shoes indoors—wipe them before stepping onto the wood surface.

These simple, proactive steps help preserve the beauty and structure of your floors, ensuring they stay gap-free, smooth, and visually stunning for decades.

Final Thoughts

Engineered plywood-core hardwood floors strike the perfect balance between beauty and practicality, offering a stable and resilient flooring solution. However, proper humidity control is the key to longevity.

By maintaining consistent indoor moisture levels, acting early on seasonal shifts, and implementing simple maintenance habits, you’ll keep your floors looking their best for years to come.

For more expert home maintenance tips, be sure to subscribe and stay updated!

FAQs

1. What is the best humidity level for engineered hardwood floors?

The ideal indoor humidity range is 35% to 55% to prevent swelling and shrinkage.

2. Can engineered plywood-core hardwood floors get water damage?

While more moisture-resistant than solid wood, standing water can still cause damage. Always clean up spills immediately.

3. Do I need a humidifier for my floors in winter?

Yes! Indoor heating can dry out the air, leading to wood shrinkage. A humidifier helps maintain the propermoisture balance.

4. How can I tell if my floors are affected by humidity?

Look for slight swelling at the edges in high humidity or small gaps between planks in dry conditions.

5. Are engineered hardwood floors better than solid wood for humidity control?

Yes! Plywood-core-engineered hardwood is more stable than solid wood, making it a better choice for areas with seasonal humidity changes.