Wood is a natural material that expands and contracts as temperature and humidity change. Dubai swings between humid outdoor air and dry air-conditioned interiors — which is why doors stick, table tops crack and parquet gaps appear. A little care prevents most of it.
Keep indoor conditions steady
Sudden changes do the damage. Avoid switching the AC off for weeks while travelling in summer; leaving it on a higher setting keeps humidity stable.
Protect wood from direct sun
Strong sunlight fades and dries timber. Use curtains or UV film on sun-facing windows and rotate rugs and furniture occasionally.
Clean with a barely damp cloth
Wood and water do not mix. Wipe spills immediately, never wet-mop parquet, and use a cleaner made for wooden floors.
Use felt pads and coasters
Felt pads under chair and table legs prevent scratches on parquet. Coasters and mats protect table tops from heat rings and stains.
Oil or polish once or twice a year
Oiled and waxed surfaces need feeding to stay flexible. A fresh coat restores colour and helps prevent cracking.
Fix small problems early
A loose hinge, a lifting edge of veneer or a single damaged board is a quick repair. Left alone, it usually spreads.
