Why Are My Floorboards Separating?

Your home's floorboards are a lot like you and your first love. Despite your best intentions, sometimes you can't stay together forever. As your interests expand, you may find yourself growing apart.

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Like your interests, wooden flooring can also expand, leaving gaps between the once-stable connection of your planks and subfloor.

Finding gaps in hardwood floors can be frustrating, especially when you never expected to see your wooden floor separating. Learn more about what causes gaps between wood floorboards and whether you should attempt to repair these openings.

Is It Normal for Old Hardwood Floors to Separate?

Slight gaps between hardwood floorboards are common, especially during the winter. Winter's frigid air can dry out your skin, and it has the same effect on wooden flooring. Low humidity can shrink your floorboards, creating gaps between hardwood floorboards.

Large gaps between wood floorboards may be abnormal. A damaged foundation triggered by shifting soil or a settling house can cause visible gaps. Installation errors can also result in noticeable gaps in your flooring. Contact a professional if you notice large gaps in your hardwood floors.

Why Are My Floorboards Separating?

Homeowners often wonder, "Why are my floorboards separating?" when they notice gaps. Gaps in wood floors have numerous causes, including:

• Moisture content. Excess moisture can make wood expand and contract, leading to gaps between wood floorboards.

• Installation errors. Floorboards should be installed with enough room for expansion and given ample time to set before you begin walking on your new flooring.

• Damaged subfloor. Your subfloor sits under your wood flooring; problems with your subfloor can lead to warps or gaps in your wooden planks.

• Temperature changes. Wood may swell on hot days and shrink on cold days, causing gaps.

• Water damage. Leaks from pipes or home appliances, such as a damaged water heater, can affect your flooring and cause gaps.

You may need assistance from multiple specialists if you're unsure why your wood floor has noticeable gaps. A plumber can check for hidden leaks from pipes or drains. Other home improvement specialists can examine the subfloor and foundation of your home. These specialists can help you decide how to proceed if your wooden floor is separating.

Should I Attempt to Fill the Gaps Between Wood Floor Boards?

Small gaps between hardwood floorboards may not require attention. These gaps often resolve on their own when humidity levels or temperatures change. But how can you tell if the gaps are small or large? It's a good sign if you don't have excess dirt or debris trapped between the gaps in your wooden planks. You may also have to get close to the ground to notice smaller gaps.

Large gaps in hardwood floors can be dangerous and inconvenient. You may trip due to large gaps or cut yourself if you walk barefoot in your home. These holes can damage your furniture, too. Large gaps are typically noticeable, even when you're not close to the ground. If you can fit a nickel in your floor gap, it's too big.

Large gaps can make it difficult to open or shut doors. Over time, noticeable gaps can even damage the structure of your home, resulting in cracks or weakened walls. It's important to address large gaps, even if they seem tied to seasonal changes. You may need a flooring repair or replacement.

Floor gap repairs may involve wood filler, caulk or putty. You may also need to sand the planks during your floor project. Speak with a professional if you're unsure how to repair large gaps in your wood flooring.

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How Can You Prevent Gaps in Hardwood Floors?

Some gaps aren't preventable, which is why contractors typically leave space for flooring to expand and contract. Subtle gaps are expected during seasonal changes. However, you can install a humidifier or dehumidifier in your home to help control the moisture content.

Regular maintenance can also help prevent large gaps in hardwood floors. Maintenance may include sanding planks or applying wood filler. Inspecting your floors regularly also helps you catch issues before they escalate.

Some flooring materials are more prone to gaps than others. Consider choosing engineered hardwood if you notice frequent gaps in your flooring. A flooring specialist can help you pick the best materials for your home and offer tips for gap prevention.