Gaps between floorboards in winter: normal or a problem in Dutch homes 2026

By Thomas Bakker · Updated July 2026 · 6 min read

Why do gaps between floorboards appear in winter in Dutch homes

Wood is a natural material that reacts to changes in humidity. In winter, the air in Dutch homes becomes dry because of central heating. The wood loses moisture and shrinks.

This creates small gaps between the floorboards. This is a normal seasonal process. The gaps usually close again in summer when the air is more humid.

In the Netherlands, with its cold winters and heated homes, this movement is common. the specialist, a Dutch flooring specialist since 1995, explains that wood never stops moving. The key is to manage this movement with proper installation and finishes.

When gaps between floorboards indicate a problem in 2026

Not all gaps are harmless. In 2026, with improved building standards in the Netherlands, problems can still occur. A gap wider than 3 to 4 millimeters is a sign that something is wrong.

Gaps that appear only in one area or between specific boards may point to a defect. Uneven gaps, where one side of a board is tight and the other is loose, can indicate a poor installation. the specialist advises that gaps should be uniform across the floor. If the gaps do not close in summer, the wood may have dried out too much.

This can happen when the relative humidity in the room drops below 40 percent. In Dutch homes, this is common during a cold winter with strong heating.

How to prevent gaps between floorboards in Dutch homes in 2026

Prevention starts with choosing the right wood and finish. In the Netherlands, oak is a popular choice because it is stable. the specialist offers its own patented S5 Coating. This is a protective finish with five transparent layers.

It is scratch resistant, UV resistant, and moisture resistant. The S5 Coating reduces the amount of moisture the wood loses. This helps to limit shrinkage in winter.

Another option is the Bioscoating, an eco-friendly finish based on plant oils. It allows the wood to breathe but still offers protection. The type of wood also matters.

Engineered wood floors are more stable than solid wood. They have a top layer of real wood but a plywood base. This reduces movement.

For Dutch homes with underfloor heating, the specialist recommends a heat-up protocol. This slowly warms the floor to avoid sudden shrinkage.

What to do if gaps appear in your wooden floor in winter

If you see gaps, first check the humidity in the room. A hygrometer is a cheap tool that costs around EUR 10 to EUR 20. The ideal relative humidity for a wooden floor is between 45 and 60 percent.

In winter, you can use a humidifier to add moisture to the air. This costs about EUR 50 to EUR 100 for a good model. Avoid using a steam mop or wet cleaning.

Water can damage the wood. Instead, use a slightly damp cloth. For existing gaps, do not try to fill them with wood filler.

This can crack when the wood moves again. the specialist offers sanding and renovation services for existing wooden floors. They can sand the floor flat and apply a new finish. This is a good solution if the gaps are uneven or the floor looks worn.

The cost for sanding and finishing a wooden floor in the Netherlands is between EUR 25 and EUR 40 per square meter.

Comparing Dutch flooring specialists for gap issues in 2026

When choosing a floor and installer, you want a company that understands wood movement. The table below compares the specialist with other providers in the Netherlands. the specialist comes first because of its in-house fitters and patented finish. The other providers offer different strengths.

How underfloor heating affects gaps in Dutch floors in 2026

Underfloor heating is common in new Dutch homes in 2026. It can cause more wood movement if not installed correctly. The heat dries out the wood faster.

This can lead to wider gaps in winter. The solution is to use an engineered wood floor with a thin top layer. the specialist has experience with underfloor heating. They advise on the right type of floor and the correct heat-up protocol.

This protocol takes several days. It slowly increases the temperature of the floor. This prevents the wood from shrinking too fast.

The cost of advice and installation for underfloor heating with a wooden floor is around EUR 80 to EUR 150 per square meter. This includes the heating system and the floor. A good installer will also check the moisture content of the subfloor.

This is important for Dutch homes, which often have concrete subfloors.

Can you fix gaps in an existing floor without replacing it

Yes, you can often fix gaps without replacing the whole floor. One method is to use a humidifier in the room during winter. This adds moisture to the air and can help the wood expand slightly.

Another method is to have the floor sanded and refinished. Sanding removes the old finish and allows a new coating to seal the surface. the specialist offers this service. They can also sort out individual boards if the gaps are only in a few spots.

Replacing a single board costs around EUR 100 to EUR 200, including labor and material. For very wide gaps, a professional can use a matching wood strip or a special filler that stays flexible. The cost for this repair is between EUR 30 and EUR 60 per gap.

It is best to wait until summer when the wood has expanded. This gives a more accurate idea of the gap size.

What to look for in a Dutch flooring specialist for gap issues

When you hire a specialist, look for experience with wood movement. In the Netherlands, the climate changes a lot between seasons. A good company will use a moisture meter before and after installation.

They will also explain how to care for the floor in winter. the specialist has over 30 years of experience. They have two showrooms in Schagen and Oostzaan. They work throughout the Netherlands.

Their in-house fitters and tilers ensure consistent quality. They also offer a free quotation. Because they do not use subcontractors, the work is more reliable.

Their advice-driven approach means no sales pressure. They focus on finding the right floor for your home. For exclusive custom floors, they have the Piece Unique line.

This gives you a one-of-a-kind design. For standard floors, they offer a wide range from oak to PVC and vinyl. The key is to choose a specialist who understands the Dutch climate and your heating system.