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Hardwood floors are beautiful. But they're also a bit moody. Like an old friend, they react to the weather - swelling in the summer, shrinking in the winter. If you've noticed gaps, you're not alone. These gaps happen when the wood loses moisture and contracts.
But don't panic! This is a natural process, and there are ways to keep these gaps from becoming a long-term problem. Let's talk about why it happens and how to stop your floors from turning into a game of Tetris.
Wood isn't just sitting there, solid and unmoving. It's alive - sort of. It absorbs and releases moisture based on the environment. When it's humid, the wood swells. In dry conditions, it contracts, which leads to gaps.
Your heating system, especially in winter, pulls moisture out of the air. This dry air causes your hardwood floors to contract. In summer? The air is heavy with humidity, and your floors swell. This constant back-and-forth is a natural dance, but if left unchecked, the gaps will become more noticeable - and not in a good way.
Think of humidity as your floor's best friend or worst enemy. The ideal range for hardwood is between 35%-55% humidity. Go below that, and you've got trouble. Your floor dries out. Go above it? The wood planks can buckle. Controlling humidity is your secret weapon against gaps.
Now that we know why hardwood floors gap, let's talk solutions. These aren't complicated fixes, but they do need consistency.
Humidifiers aren't just for dry skin. Your floor needs moisture in the air, especially during the winter months. Run a humidifier in key rooms - you'll thank yourself later when the floor stays gap-free. During the summer, a dehumidifier helps to keep excess moisture in check.
A hygrometer is a simple device that tells you exactly where your humidity is. No guessing. It's cheap and could save you hundreds in floor repairs.
Your furnace, while keeping you warm, is your floor's worst enemy in winter. It blasts dry heat. The result? Gaps. Try not to go too wild with cranking up the heat. Keep it consistent, and avoid drastic temperature changes, which shock your floors.
If you're installing new hardwood floors, you must let them acclimate to your home before laying them down. Give them a week or two to get used to your home's humidity and temperature. Install them too early? You're setting yourself up for gaps right from the start.
Already seeing gaps? Don't worry - there are fixes. Not all gaps are a disaster, but addressing them early helps.
Sweep, mop, and clean regularly. Dirt and debris can actually hold onto moisture, which can affect the wood's health. And use a cleaner that's meant for hardwood - no vinegar or harsh chemicals. You don't want to damage the finish.
Got a few visible gaps? Use wood filler or floor putty for smaller gaps. It's a quick fix, easy to apply, and dries fast. For larger gaps, or if you're not feeling up to a DIY project, bring in a professional. Gaps larger than 3mm need expert attention.
If your floors are older, consider refinishing. Sanding and refinishing not only restores the shine but adds an extra layer of protection against moisture. Polyurethane coatings act like armor, keeping moisture out.
Some wood species handle climate better than others. If you live in a region with significant humidity swings, engineered hardwood is your best bet. Unlike solid hardwood, it's designed to resist expansion and contraction.
Oak and hickory are also solid choices for areas with fluctuating temperatures. If you're still in the decision phase, think about your local climate and choose accordingly.
Preventing gaps is a long game. Consistent care will keep your floors gap-free and looking their best year-round.
Check your floors every season. Look for early signs of gaps, buckling, or uneven surfaces. Early detection can save you a lot of trouble later.
Once a year, consider having your floors recoated. This adds a fresh layer of protection and keeps moisture out. You can also protect high-traffic areas with rugs or mats to prevent wear and tear.
Know your local weather patterns. If you live somewhere with extreme winters, be proactive about controlling humidity. It's easier to prevent gaps than to fix them after they've already formed.
Some gaps you can fix on your own. Others? Not so much. If you're seeing large gaps or if the floor feels uneven, it's time to call in the pros. They can assess the damage, repair it, and recommend long-term solutions like professional-grade humidifiers to maintain proper conditions.
Gaps in hardwood floors are normal, but they don't have to be a constant issue. By controlling humidity, keeping a consistent temperature, and regularly maintaining your floors, you can keep those gaps in check. Hardwood floors are an investment, and with the right care, they'll remain a standout feature of your home.
If you're unsure or need professional help, contact Hardwood Revival. We've got the expertise to help keep your floors looking pristine, year after year.
Between 35%-55%. Any lower or higher can lead to gaps or buckling.
Mostly, but not entirely. Controlling humidity and temperature reduces gaps significantly.
Dry air caused by heating systems pulls moisture out of the wood, causing it to contract.