How Does Winter Humidity Affect Interior Trim and Cabinetry?
Winter is tough on your home not just the outside, but the inside too. Most homeowners don't realize that the dry air inside their homes during winter can cause real damage to interior trim and cabinetry. Let's break it down in simple terms. What Happens to Wood in Winter? Wood is a natural material. It absorbs and releases moisture depending on the air around it. In winter, heating systems run constantly, which pulls moisture out of the air. This makes indoor air very dry — sometimes too dry for wood. When wood loses moisture, it shrinks and contracts. This causes gaps appearing between trim pieces, cabinet doors that no longer close properly, cracking or splitting along wood grain, and paint or finish peeling at joints. This is not a sign of poor-quality wood. It's just wood responding to its environment. Which Areas Are Most at Risk? Some areas in your home are more vulnerable than others. 1. Kitchen Cabinets — These go through constant temperature and humidity changes ...