Understanding and Addressing Gaps Between Wood Floorboards

Wooden floors have long been cherished for their timeless appeal, yet many have encountered the common issue of noticeable gaps between floorboards, particularly in older inner-city villas. Despite advancements in engineered wood flooring technology, these gaps persist due to the inherent characteristics of real wood. This article delves into the causes of these gaps, their aesthetic implications, and practical solutions for homeowners.

1. Understanding Wood's Inherent Qualities:

Real wood, the primary material used in engineered boards, exhibits a unique characteristic of expanding and contracting with changes in humidity. Comparing wood to a sponge highlights the expansion when soaked with water and the subsequent contraction as it dries. Additionally, the organic nature of wood may cause floorboards to bend slightly, which is considered normal.

2. Aesthetic Considerations:

While engineered wood flooring minimises the occurrence of gaps, it doesn't entirely eliminate them. Homeowners often have varied perspectives on these gaps; some embrace them as part of the authentic charm of real wood floors, while others prefer a more seamless appearance. The choice between click-lock systems and traditional tongue and groove joining systems plays a role in determining the likelihood of gaps.

3. Click-Lock Systems vs. Tongue and Groove Joining:

Click-lock systems, prevalent in laminate flooring, offer a seamless appearance by tightly holding floorboards together, allowing for collective expansion and contraction. In contrast, tongue and groove joining systems may exhibit gaps between boards and other design elements, such as stair nosings. Both systems are widely accepted in the architectural and design community.

4. Addressing Gaps:

Homeowners who find gaps undesirable have options for minimising their visibility. Click-lock systems, especially when installed floating over underlay, reduce the appearance of gaps. Alternatively, coloured fillers can be applied to larger gaps, providing a solution that maintains the authenticity of real wood while addressing aesthetic concerns.

5. Climactic Conditions and Seasonal Changes:

Gaps in wood floorboards may become more noticeable during or after installation, but it's essential not to panic. Immediate post-installation gaps can be minimised with coloured filler, while those appearing over time may naturally close up as climactic conditions and seasons change. Interior humidity levels between 40-60% are recommended by manufacturers to minimise floorboard movement.

Understanding the nature of gaps between wood floorboards, appreciating the aesthetic choices available, and knowing how to address and minimise these gaps contribute to a holistic approach for homeowners seeking the perfect balance between the charm of real wood and a visually pleasing floor.

If you'd like personalised advice regarding the gaps in your timber flooring, contact Vienna Woods // Timber Flooring Experts. 2 Roxburgh St / Newmarket / Auckland / NZ / [email protected] / 0800 843 662