Humidity in the house
Wood is a natural product and therefore vulnerable. Humidity plays a significant role in the "life" of wood. In general, the more stable the humidity, the better it is for the health of your dining tables. In this blog, we will show you the ideal humidity level for your table, the dangers of abnormal humidity, and how you can play a part in significantly extending the lifespan of your furniture.
To help you out, we answer the most frequently asked questions on this page and provide advice on how to create the ideal conditions at home for your oak and walnut furniture.
Why is humidity important?
Humidity has a direct effect on wood. Just like in nature, wood in the home reacts to either too high or too low moisture levels. This can cause your tabletop to "move," leading to dissatisfaction with its shape or material. Therefore, it's essential to monitor humidity closely.
What is the correct humidity level?
First of all, we understand it’s impossible to keep your humidity perfectly stable at a single point. Fortunately, there is a range within which your wood will stay in good condition. The ideal humidity level we recommend is between 50% and 60%. Tip: purchase a reliable humidity meter so you can keep an eye on the moisture level in your home, preventing any surprises.
What happens if the humidity is too low?
If the humidity drops below 50%, the wood becomes vulnerable, and it's time to take action. Dry air often occurs during the transition from summer to autumn, when we first turn on the heating. This is a typical moment when the stability of humidity takes a hit. In well-insulated homes, we often see humidity levels below 40%. The danger of low humidity is that the wood can dry out, leading to cracks or splits.
What happens if the humidity is too high?
If the humidity rises above 60%, it’s also time to act. High humidity can cause the wood to swell, resulting in warping. Additionally, the joints become weaker. In short, high humidity can be disastrous for your tabletop.
How do I increase humidity in the home?
The old-school method often used by older generations is to place water bowls near radiators to make the air more humid. The water evaporates slowly, giving the humidity a boost. However, there are quicker and more effective measures you can take. We recommend using an electric humidifier. This device disperses water vapor, which has an immediate impact on humidity. Finally, it’s smart to use the weather to your advantage. Is it raining? Open the windows for a bit to give the humidity a boost.
How do I decrease humidity in the home?
Has your humidity level risen above 60%, and do you want to lower it as quickly as possible? There are several measures you can take. Just like for increasing humidity, there’s also an electric device to solve the problem fast. With a dehumidifier, you can quickly lower the moisture levels.
Additionally, we advise ensuring good ventilation and regularly opening the windows. Finally, it’s smart to reduce the number of moisture sources. Try to cook with lids on pots as much as possible and dry clothes outside or in a ventilated area. Heating your home (in winter or autumn) will also help lower humidity. As a final tip, always turn on exhaust fans while cooking and showering.
What should I keep in mind when installing a humidity meter?
A hygrometer, as a humidity meter is also called, should be placed at eye level. Additionally, it’s important that the meter doesn’t have direct contact with sunlight and isn’t placed near windows, doors, or heat sources.
