Hardwood floors are an essential part of traditional homes in Brisbane. They reflect the culture and rich interior design mindset of Brisbane homeowners. Fluctuations in the moisture content of the atmosphere due to changing weather cause expansion and contraction of the timber floorboards, leaving unsightly gaps. Fortunately, there are effective solutions and treatments to address the gaps between wooden floorboards, restoring their look and feel.
Let us look into the causes of the gaps between polished floorboards, the potential consequences, and the best ways to deal with them.
Reasons For Gaps Formation Between Wooden Floorboards In Brisbane
Knowing the reasons for gaps formation between floorboards is essential before diving into the solutions. The main reasons for these gaps are humidity changes, temperature fluctuations, and the natural expansion and contraction of timber over time
Moisture Fluctuations
Moisture Fluctuations in the environment change through contraction and expansion. The wood grains in the presence of high moisture swell, causing the floorboards to expand. On the other hand, the low moisture content in the atmosphere causes the grains to contract, causing the shrinking of the floorboard.
Aging of the Timber
As wood flooring gets older, it naturally loses moisture and dries out, which can lead to shrinkage. Gaps and creaky noise are characteristics of old timber floors. Years of exposure to moisture changes by older untreated floors make them brittle and noisy. Gaps can be more pronounced in these types of floors.
Seasonal Changes
Brisbane is known for its subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Wood is hygroscopic- it naturally absorbs and releases moisture based on the surrounding environment. As the temperature increases during summer, the moisture content decreases, and floorboards contract or shrink. In winter, excess moisture and low temperatures cause expansion of the floorboards. This seasonal expansion and contraction of timber can be particularly noticeable in older homes with wooden flooring that has already undergone some wear and tear.
Poor Quality Timber
Gaps between floorboards are likely to occur often in poorly installed or inferior quality timber floors. Lack of acclimatization, DIY-installed floors, or subpar materials can all contribute to uneven floorboard expansion and contraction.
What Are the Outcomes of Gaps Between Floorboards?
Seasonal formation and filling of gaps is a natural phenomenon and floorboards come back to their place in moderate weather. But, wider gaps are a major concern and should not be left untreated. Some of the most common issues with gap-filled timber floors include:
- Aesthetically unpleasing
Floorboard gaps create an unpleasing sight, especially in areas like living rooms, kitchens, and hallways, where they draw attention and disrupt the natural beauty of your floor.
- House mold and dirt
Increased dirt and debris accumulation due to the space between timber floorboards is difficult to clean. The gaps create a favorable environment for fungal growth, particularly in areas with higher humidity, such as bathrooms or kitchens.
- Subfloor damage
Gaps in your timber floorboards can damage the subfloor by exposing it to moisture, especially in Brisbane’s humid conditions. Issues like buckling and rotting arise in the subfloor which can result in extensive damage.
Effective Ways To Treat Gaps Between Wooden Floorboards
Below are some solutions to fix floorboard gaps. From simple maintenance to repairs, there are several solutions you can consider to restore the beauty and durability of timber floors.
Gaps Filling With Wood Filler
Wood filler is an excellent option for quickly fixing the gaps between timber floorboards. Minor gaps that form due to moisture changes can be filled with wood filler. Selecting the right type and color of the filler is important to match with the flooring. Available wood fillers are water-based, oil-based, and putty-style fillers.
How to apply a wood filler? Apply the filler to the gaps Using a putty knife- press it firmly into the space. Allow the filler to dry according to the instructions, then sand the area for a seamless finish.
Floor Sanding and Polishing
Sanding and polishing the floor is the best treatment for floors with wide gaps. Sanding evens the surface by removing the top layer of timber. Sanding prepares the floor for polishing which gives lustre and smoothness to the floor.
Floor sanding requires the services of a professional who will address the issue well and repair the damage. Hiring a professional ensures the work is done precisely, reducing the risk of future damage. A high-quality finish or polish can further protect the timber, preventing it from shrinking or expanding excessively in the future
Replace or Reinstall Floorboards
For high-degree damage, floorboard replacement or reinstalling sections of timber is essential. The replacement process involves removing damaged boards and replacing them with new wood that matches the original flooring.
Budget Floor Sanding provides free quotes and consultations for Brisbane homeowners. Our team of professionals can help assess the condition of your floor and recommend the best course of action.
Call us now for any queries at 0418 882 678
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