Moist Areas
Certain places within the home are prone to be humid and sometimes, even wet like basements, bathrooms, laundry rooms, mudrooms, and kitchens. If you live in a humid climate, your entire home may be moist.
Best Type of Wood for Moist Areas
Aside from Vinyl and Laminate – which are excellent options for basements, bathrooms, and other areas with increased moisture – hardwood can also be utilized in more moist conditions. It’s important to note, however, that some types of wood are more waterproof than others. Cedar is a great wood to use for locations in your home that are prone to be moist because it is naturally waterproof to some extent. Cedar is used in saunas for the same reason. Hickory and Maple work well in moist areas too.
Engineered Wood vs. Solid for Moist Location
Engineered wood typically holds up better than laminate, but you may be surprised to learn that it may perform better than solid wood too. The type of wood you choose greatly determines whether it is suitable for a wet area or not but most types of engineered wood are designed to hold up in moist and even wet locations.
If you go with engineered wood, be sure it’s high grade. It should also be American made and 8 ply thick, at least.
But, if your heart is set on solid wood flooring, don’t fret. Just remember to pick a type of wood that can hold up to the moisture you’re exposing it to.
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