Seasonal Changes and What to Expect
In a comfortable home with slight humidity variations throughout the seasons, wood naturally expands and contracts in response. This seasonal movement is a normal characteristic of wood and occurs continuously, regardless of its age. During warm, humid weather, wood expands, while in dry weather, it contracts. These changes may be noticeable, but they are entirely natural.
In winter, when homes are heated and the air is dry, wood loses moisture and shrinks, often resulting in thin cracks. This is a normal occurrence, and homeowners should be prepared for it. As the indoor environment regains moisture in the spring, most of these cracks will close up.
To ensure optimal performance and minimize crack formation, it is advisable to install humidity controls and ensure they are functioning properly before installing wood steps. Additionally, adding moisture to the air during dry periods by running a humidifier throughout the winter can help reduce the chances of cracking.
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