How Humidity Impacts Wood Furniture?

1. How Humidity Impacts Wood Furniture? Wood is undoubtedly the most used flooring and building material. It is used to build, Amish furniture, doors, fireplace, etc. Wooden furniture has a timeless allure that never gets old. However, it is not invincible; there are many factors that can cause damage to it, humidity being one of them. Too much and too little, humidity in both directions can be impactful to the wood furniture. The Reason of Damage The fundamental reason behind this damage is hygroscopic. In simpler terms, it indicates the amount of moisture from air using grain fibers that runs along the length of the furniture. Whether a finished or unfinished piece of furniture, it can happen to any form of wood. Because of the high absorption and moisture expelling, grain fibers can constantly change. Moreover, when wood absorbs moisture, it expands. When moisture is lost, wood contracts resulting in damages caused due to humidity. Due to the modern forced air heating system, wooden damage due to humidity is a comparatively new challenge. In the summer season, generally, people use air conditioners to combat the heat, which reduces the humidity. However, forced heating systems used in winter prove to be problematic for wood furniture. This is because air heating systems result in a considerable drop in the air’s humidity level and absorb moisture from any location. The dry air of the room tends to suck the moisture from the wood furniture, resulting in cracks and splits in the furniture causing damage.

2. Protection Aid by Professionals One of the best examples of protection aids can be seen in museums. To protect wooden pieces, museums have most master the art of balanced humidity. These institutions refer to temperature and humidity exposure as relative humidity. It is monitored in the museum using a recording hygrothermograph. These are placed all over the museums and hold sensors that monitor both the air temperature and humidity. Along with round the clock humidity monitors, museums also use very complex air controlling units. This combats any sharp changes in the temperature and humidity in the facility. Generally, museums equip a high- tech HVAC system that is developed to keep a consistent temperature of around 70-degree Fahrenheit and 50% humidity at all time of the year. How you can Protect your Furniture from Humidity The system installed in museums are certainly too complex to be used at your home, but there are other ways that can help your furniture sustain its beauty. During dry winter, when air lacks humidity, you can apply polish to your wooden piece to protect them. Additionally, you can also use a humidifier with an automatic control system to ensure that your home isn’t dry. Always keep your furniture away from direct sunlight and heating vents. Make sure you don't over humidify; this will result in furniture to expand. Wood furniture is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and expensive house possessions. Protecting it against humidity damage is important to ensure it lasts for generations to cherish. It is important to take the right measures to ensure that there is no drastic alteration in air temperature and humidity level that can cause furniture to expand or contract.