Winter Board Maintenance Guide: Effectively Avoid Board Cracking and Deformation

　　In winter, the temperature drops sharply, and the boards are easily affected by the climate and environment, leading to swelling and shrinkage, which causes changes in moisture content, resulting in cracking and deformation. Therefore, to effectively avoid cracking and deformation of the boards, proper maintenance is essential. To maintain the boards correctly, we must first understand the main cause of board cracking—moisture content.

　　Changes in moisture content are the main cause of board cracking. The moisture content inside the board maintains a balance to adapt to the environment. When the moisture content of the board decreases, it absorbs moisture from the air, causing expansion and deformation; when the moisture content increases, dry air absorbs moisture from the board, leading to a reduction in volume and cracking. So how should we maintain the boards? Let's take a look.

　　Reasonable Humidification

　　A common method is to place a humidifier or plants that help maintain indoor humidity, such as pothos or lucky bamboo. However, excessive humidification should be avoided, as it can cause the boards to swell and deform. The humidity should generally be controlled between 40%-60%.

　　Keep Away from Heat Sources

　　In winter, when it is extremely cold, some customers worry that the boards will freeze and use heaters to warm them. However, boards are also sensitive to high temperatures; prolonged exposure to high heat can cause them to lose moisture, leading to local dry cracking and deformation. Therefore, if a heater is used for warming, a certain distance should be maintained between the boards and the heater to avoid damage from excessive heating.

　　Avoid Direct Sunlight

　　Although the sunlight in winter is not as intense as in summer, prolonged exposure to sunlight, combined with the already dry climate, can easily lead to cracks and local fading. Therefore, it is best to cover the surface of the boards with a protective film.

　　Pay Attention to Surface Maintenance

　　Heavy items should be avoided from being placed on the boards for long periods, as this can cause excessive external force leading to deformation and cracking; when placing heavy items for a short time, a soft cloth should be placed under the weight; avoid contact with corrosive chemicals such as acids and bases on the surface of the furniture.

　　Reasonable Temperature Adjustment

　　After heating is turned on in the north, the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors can lead to cracking and deformation of furniture boards. Generally, the indoor temperature should be kept below 28°C, and the height of the board furniture from the ground should be appropriately raised according to temperature changes.

　　Reduce Window Ventilation

　　In winter, indoor humidity is higher than outdoors, and opening windows for ventilation can make the indoor environment drier. The time and frequency of window ventilation should be reduced for boards placed indoors to maintain suitable humidity and avoid placing boards near ventilation openings.