North vs. South – Climate Determines Your Choice

China’s vast territory means the south is humid and rainy, while the north is dry and cold. The same wood flooring can perform very differently in these climates. In the south, annual average humidity is 75‑85%, reaching near‑saturation during the plum rain season. The main enemies of wood flooring are expansion, buckling and mould. Southern homes should prioritise dimensionally stable multi‑layer engineered wood or laminate; for solid wood, choose moisture‑resistant species like teak or ipe, and strictly install a vapour barrier. Leave wider expansion gaps (12‑15 mm) to prevent buckling after moisture absorption. In daily use, a dehumidifier is a lifesaver.

In the north, indoor humidity can drop below 20% during winter heating. The biggest threats are shrinkage, cracking and enlarged gaps. Solid wood floors tend to develop noticeable gaps between planks in dry conditions, affecting appearance and insulation. It is advisable to choose thermally modified or acetylated solid wood, or three‑layer engineered wood, which have lower internal stress. In the north, expansion gaps can be slightly smaller (8‑10 mm), but the floor must be acclimatised indoors for at least 72 hours before installation, and a humidifier is recommended to keep indoor humidity above 40%.

For transitional climate zones (such as the Yangtze River basin), both moisture and dryness must be considered – three‑layer engineered or high‑quality laminate are good choices. No matter where you are, always ask the seller for actual case references of the product used in your region. Climate is the most faithful “examiner” of wood flooring – choose wisely, and it will safely pass through all four seasons.