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Can Humidity Damage My Wood Furniture?

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Sturdy, well-made, hardwood furniture can last for generations when properly protected.  Routine dusting protects the wood from being etched by dust particles.  Positioning your wood furniture away from sunlight protects it from damage from UV rays.  Moisture is another thing your wood furniture needs protection from, though it can be trickier to manage.  When there’s not enough moisture in the air, the wood can become so dry that it cracks.  However, if there’s too much moisture in the air, the wood can swell or warp.

Here are tips for monitoring the humidity in your home in order to protect your wood furniture:

  • In order for wood furniture to be protected from moisture damage, the humidity level inside the house should be between 45-55%. Some experts argue that temperature should remain between 60-80 degrees in order for wood furniture to remain fully protected.
  • Wood absorbs and loses moisture as its environment changes. Use a humidifier or dehumidifier in order to keep the inside of your home within the ideal range of 45-55% humidity.
  • Avoid making sudden, drastic changes to the temperature or humidity level in your home. Wood furniture reacts poorly to these sudden fluctuations.

Here in beautiful Jacksonville FL we generally enjoy mild winters and warm, sunny summers, though we also experience spikes and dips in temperature, and unseasonable weather at times.  As you adjust your heat, air conditioning, and humidity levels in your home, remember to do so in a manner that will help preserve your favorite wood furniture so that you can continue to enjoy it for years to come.

When your furniture requires restoration, call on a great local wood furniture restoration service.  Jax Furniture Refinishing and Upholstering is the best furniture restoration service Jacksonville FL, Ortega, Ponte Vedra Beach, and Riverside homeowners trust with heirloom antique furniture of all kinds.  Our Southside upholstery shop offers repairs, antique restoration, reupholstery services, cushion foam replacement, and more, and we’d love the opportunity to care for or repair your fine wood furniture.