Hardwood flooring describes flooring products made from broadleaf trees as opposed to softwoods harvested from trees with needle-like leaves (e.g. evergreens). The term ‘hardwood’ does not necessarily relate to the impact resistance of the wood. New materials such as bamboo are also included in this flooring category. Engineered hardwoods often use a 1/8” thick hardwood on top of a plywood substrate. The plywood substrate adds Hardwood flooring is highly susceptible to changes in indoor humidity. The first two years are especially critical for fine woods as they normalize to climatic conditions. Hardwood floor manufacturers suggest keeping your home’s humidity between 40-50 per cent year-round to minimize cupping and crowning. This is unrealistic in a cold northern climate during the winter. Maintaining such a high humidity would compromise external components of your home. Windows, for example, dimensional stability and resistance to shrinkage. Both types of hardwood floors use real wood on the cosmetic surface of the floor. It’s important to remember each plank of hardwood floor is unique. Grain structure, knots and dark/light patches add to the warmth and charm of hardwood flooring. Even expensive hardwood flooring will have these variations. would be covered in condensation in the cold weather. Humidity in your home must be balanced to provide human comfort, minimize condensation and maintain your wood floor. Excess humidity must be controlled through ventilation and excessively dry conditions must be addressed by humidification. Adjust your home’s humidity throughout the year to maintain a desired level. How should I manage my home’s humidity levels to protect my hardwood floor? Radiant heating systems should be engineered for wood flooring with correct heat source temperatures and thermostatic controls. Hardwood Flooring FLOORING 67