How Temperature and Humidity Affect Your Flooring
When it comes to flooring, most people focus on colour, texture, and durability — but few think about how temperature and humidity can impact their floors over time. In regions like Auckland and Northland, where humidity levels fluctuate and the weather can swing from hot and dry to damp and coastal, understanding how your flooring reacts to these changes is essential.
At ATS Design, we supply and install premium flooring options designed to withstand New Zealand’s unique climate. From engineered timber to SPC and laminate, every material behaves differently under changing conditions — and knowing how to care for them can make all the difference in keeping your floors looking their best for years to come.
Understanding How Climate Affects Flooring
All flooring materials expand and contract to some degree depending on environmental conditions. Temperature changes cause materials to expand when warm and contract when cool, while humidity affects how much moisture flooring absorbs or releases.
In Auckland and Northland, high humidity during summer and cooler, damp winters mean your flooring must be carefully chosen and installed to handle movement without warping, cracking, or lifting.
Engineered Timber Flooring
Engineered timber is built with multiple layers of wood, making it far more stable than solid timber. This structure allows it to handle moderate temperature and humidity changes better, reducing the risk of expansion and contraction.
However, like all timber, it’s still a natural product — so it needs a controlled environment to perform at its best. Maintaining stable indoor humidity (ideally between 40–60%) and avoiding excessive moisture will ensure your engineered wooden floor stays flat and beautiful all year round.
At ATS Design, we install timber flooring with the correct expansion gaps and underlay to accommodate minor movement without visible damage.
SPC Flooring
SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) is one of the most dimensionally stable flooring options on the market today. Its rigid stone-based core makes it resistant to both temperature and humidity changes — perfect for the varied climate across Auckland and Northland.
Unlike timber, SPC doesn’t absorb moisture, which means it won’t swell, warp, or shrink with changing weather. It’s also 100% waterproof, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and coastal homes where humidity is higher.
SPC’s minimal movement means it can be installed in large, open spaces without concern for noticeable expansion, offering a clean and consistent finish throughout.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is durable and affordable, but it does react more to humidity than SPC. Excess moisture can cause the boards to expand, while very dry conditions may cause slight shrinkage. That’s why professional installation — with appropriate underlay and expansion allowance — is key.
Modern laminate products like those supplied by ATS Design are made with a resilient core and moisture-resistant coating, making them far more stable than traditional laminate floors. Still, maintaining indoor climate control will extend their lifespan and keep your flooring performing well year after year.
Vinyl Flooring (LVT)
Luxury vinyl flooring, like our Karndean range, is designed to handle temperature and humidity fluctuations exceptionally well. Its flexible composition allows it to expand and contract slightly without damage, while remaining fully waterproof.
Vinyl performs particularly well in Northland’s coastal environments, where salty air and high humidity can cause issues for other flooring types. It’s a great option for homeowners who want beautiful, natural-looking flooring without worrying about the effects of climate.
Preventing Climate-Related Flooring Problems
Even the best flooring materials benefit from a little care and attention. To keep your floors in top condition in Auckland and Northland’s ever-changing weather:
Use proper underlay – This helps absorb minor movement and prevents warping.
Maintain stable indoor conditions – Avoid excessive humidity or extremely dry air when possible.
Allow acclimation before installation – Let flooring adjust to your home’s environment before laying.
Use expansion gaps – Professional installers always allow space for natural movement.
Clean with care – Avoid soaking your floors; use recommended cleaning methods for your flooring type.
At ATS Design, our team follows best practices to ensure your flooring is installed for longevity — not just looks.
Flooring Built for New Zealand Homes
New Zealand’s climate presents unique challenges, but with the right materials and expert installation, you can have flooring that looks great and performs flawlessly year-round.
From the natural warmth of engineered timber to the climate resistance of SPC and vinyl, ATS Design provides flooring solutions that handle Auckland and Northland’s conditions with ease.
If you’re upgrading your floors or planning a new build, talk to our team about the best flooring for your environment — and experience the difference that quality and care make.
Written by Ollie Duncan