How to Prevent Floor Gaps in New Canaan Homes | All Hardwoods & Carpet
Floor gaps are a common frustration for many homeowners in New Canaan, especially during seasonal changes. These unsightly spaces between hardwood planks not only impact the look of your flooring but can also lead to more serious issues over time—like drafts, dirt accumulation, or even long-term floor damage.
At All Hardwoods & Carpet, serving New Canaan and surrounding cities like Norwalk, Stamford, Darien, Wilton, and Westport, we know exactly what causes floor gaps and how to prevent them before they become a recurring issue. Whether you’ve recently installed new floors or are working with older hardwood, here’s what you need to know.
💨 Why Do Hardwood Floors Develop Gaps?
The main culprit behind floor gaps is humidity fluctuation. Wood naturally expands in the summer when there’s more moisture in the air and contracts in the drier winter months. Over time, this expansion and contraction cycle can cause boards to pull apart, creating noticeable gaps.
Other common causes include:
- Improper installation (lack of acclimation before install)
- Poor subfloor conditions
- Low indoor humidity in winter
- Inconsistent indoor temperatures
- Age and wear of the wood
🛠️ 5 Ways to Prevent Floor Gaps in New Canaan Homes
1. Acclimate the Wood Before Installation
If you’re installing new hardwood, let the material sit in your home for several days (typically 4–7 days) to adjust to your indoor temperature and humidity. This step ensures that the wood stabilizes before it’s nailed or glued into place.
At All Hardwoods & Carpet, we never skip this step—especially with projects in Connecticut, where the seasons shift dramatically.
2. Use a Humidity Control System
The ideal indoor humidity for hardwood flooring is between 35% and 55%. Installing a humidifier in winter or a dehumidifier in summer can help maintain consistent moisture levels year-round.
New Canaan homes that rely heavily on forced air heating can dry out fast in the colder months, making humidifiers a must-have.
3. Choose Engineered Hardwood for High-Variation Areas
If your home experiences large humidity swings—like older homes in Darien or Wilton—engineered hardwood may be a better option. It has a plywood base that resists expansion and contraction better than solid wood.
4. Check Your Subfloor
A bumpy or uneven subfloor can lead to sections of the hardwood lifting or separating over time. Before any installation, we perform a full inspection and leveling (if needed) to ensure a clean foundation.
Homes in Stamford and Norwalk, especially older ones, often require subfloor prep due to shifting over the years.
5. Schedule Seasonal Floor Inspections
Just like your HVAC or roofing system, your hardwood floors benefit from regular check-ups. An annual visit from a flooring professional can help spot early signs of movement or moisture issues—before they turn into big repairs.
🏡 What to Do If You Already See Gaps
If you’re already noticing gaps in your flooring, here’s a quick checklist:
- Measure the width of the gaps: Gaps larger than a nickel (1/16”) may need repair.
- Note the time of year: Winter gaps often shrink back in summer. Wait before filling unless gaps persist year-round.
- Avoid quick fixes like caulking: These can trap moisture and cause more problems.
- Call in a pro: A flooring specialist can determine whether a board replacement, reinstallation, or seasonal adjustment is needed.
📍 About All Hardwoods & Carpet | HardwoodFloorsLLC.com
We’re a locally trusted flooring contractor with decades of experience in hardwood installation, refinishing, carpet, and vinyl flooring. Based in Norwalk, CT, we proudly serve homes across New Canaan, Stamford, Darien, Wilton, Westport, and surrounding communities.
We offer free in-home estimates, full installation warranties, and use only eco-friendly, North American-sourced wood.
📍Visit Us:
All Hardwoods & Carpet
Tarrytown, NY 10591
📞(914) 313-8822
🌐 www.hardwoodfloorsllc.com
Noticed gaps in your hardwood flooring? Don’t wait for them to get worse. Whether you’re in New Canaan, Stamford, or anywhere in Fairfield County, we’re here to help.
📞 Call All Hardwoods & Carpet at (914) 313-8822 or schedule a free estimate online today!
