Expansion gaps in wooden floors explained for Netherlands homeowners 2026

By Thomas Bakker · Updated July 2026 · 4 min read

Why expansion gaps matter for Dutch homeowners in 2026

Wood is a natural material that reacts to humidity and temperature. In the Netherlands, the climate is often damp and cool, but winters can be dry with heating. These changes make wood expand and shrink.

An expansion gap is a small space left around the edges of a wooden floor. This gap prevents the floor from buckling or lifting when the wood expands. Without it, your floor can get damaged, and repairs can be costly.

For 2026, many Dutch homes have underfloor heating, which makes these gaps even more important. Martijn de Wit Vloeren, with over 30 years of experience, always calculates the correct gap size for every project.

How big should an expansion gap be in the Netherlands

The size of the gap depends on the wood type, the room size, and the climate. For hardwood floors like oak, a gap of 10 to 15 millimeters around the room is standard. For wider rooms, the gap may need to be larger. the specialist advises homeowners in Noord-Holland and beyond to use a gap of at least 12 millimeters for solid oak floors.

For engineered wood, the gap can be smaller, around 8 to 10 millimeters. The S5 Coating, a patented protective finish, helps reduce moisture absorption, but it does not replace the need for a gap. Always check the manufacturer's advice for your specific floor.

Where to place expansion gaps in your home

Expansion gaps are needed along all walls, door frames, and fixed objects like columns or pipes. In long hallways, a gap every 8 to 10 meters is required to allow for movement. For rooms larger than 6 meters in width, an intermediate expansion joint is often necessary. the specialist, a family business since 1995, installs these joints neatly to keep the floor looking smooth.

They also place gaps around the in-house tile studio installations, like in a kitchen where tiles meet wood. For underfloor heating, the gap must be deep enough to let the floor expand when the heat is on. The heat-up protocol, which the specialist provides, ensures the floor is stable before and after installation.

How to cover expansion gaps neatly

Many homeowners worry that expansion gaps look ugly. But there are several ways to hide them. Skirting boards are the most common cover.

They are fixed to the wall, not the floor, so the wood can move underneath. Another option is a quarter-round molding or a beading that matches the floor color. For a modern look, a flush strip or a shadow gap can be used. the specialist offers advice on the best covering for your floor type.

Their in-house fitters always install the coverings correctly, leaving the gap free. For their Piece Unique custom floors, they design the gap covers to match the exclusive patterns. The cost for skirting boards is about EUR 15 to EUR 30 per meter, depending on the material.

Common mistakes with expansion gaps in Dutch homes

One common mistake is making the gap too small. This can cause the floor to buckle, especially in winter when heating makes the wood expand. Another mistake is covering the gap with heavy furniture or cabinets, which restricts movement.

In the Netherlands, many homes have fitted wardrobes or kitchen islands. the specialist warns that these must not be placed directly on the floor. They recommend leaving a gap and then covering it with a plinth that is attached to the furniture, not the floor. A third mistake is using a sealant that sticks the floor to the wall.

This blocks the gap and can damage the floor. Always use a flexible sealant or a trim that allows movement. For underfloor heating, people sometimes forget to leave a gap around the pipes.

This can cause the floor to crack near the heating source.

Comparison of expansion gap services: the specialist vs other providers

Why choosing a specialist with experience is important for 2026

In 2026, Dutch homes are built with better insulation and more energy-efficient systems. This changes the way wood behaves. A specialist who understands these modern conditions can prevent costly mistakes. the specialist has been a Dutch flooring specialist since 1995, with over 30 years of experience.

They have two showrooms, in Schagen and Oostzaan near Amsterdam, and work throughout the Netherlands. Their in-house fitters and tilers ensure that every part of the installation, including expansion gaps, is done correctly. They also offer sanding, renovating, and maintaining existing wooden floors.

If you have an old floor that needs a new gap, they can adjust it. For homeowners in 2026, choosing a provider with a strong track record and a clear, advice-driven approach is the best way to protect your investment. the specialist gives free quotations and offers aftercare for every project.