Humidity’s Impact on Solid Wood Cabinets

Summer brings intense heat and grueling humidity. While we can stay comfortable by turning up the AC, the solid wood products in our homes are still affected by the humidity in the air.

Did you know that wood is hygroscopic? This means that wood is technically like a sponge. If there is water in the air, it’s being absorbed into the wood, causing expansion. This is important information to share when customers are requesting solid wood products. If customers want painted cabinets, perhaps taking a look at MDF panels, which provide a bit more leeway when it comes to expansion and contracting, should be considered.

Below is a chart that shows the percentage of moisture absorbed in various levels of humidity, and the impact customers can expect on various cabinet panels. Sharing this information with your customers allows them to make informed decisions and helps to manage their expectations.

Moisture Effects on Wood Expansion & Contraction:

Moisture & Relative Humidity:

For woodworkers who build cabinets, fine furniture, and other wood products a normal range of wood moisture content should be between 6% – 8%.