Can anyone tell me, why our hardwood floor gets in the winter gaps between the boards?

Question

Last summer was everything nice and even. Now, there are long gaps between boards. Is it cause winter or just luck of routine maintenance.
Thanks,

Thank you all. I could not even imagine, that dry air takes such a toll on the wood floors. Despite to dry nose, I found thanks to you all another reason to get humidifier in our rooms.
Thanks a lot, I do appreciate all your help!

Answer 1

Your house is drying out. Wood shrinks and swells depending on the ambient humidity. Your house should be about 40% relative humidity. You probably need a humidifier running.

The previous answers are correct, except dirt will fall in the cracks preventing them from closing during the summer,,,,eventually. Best to keep the house at the proper humidity levels all year round to prevent future problems.

Answer 2

I used to wax and buff the wood floor regularly when I had one.

Constriction happens over time. Dryness in the winter adds to the problem. It will probably expand again, somewhat, when winter is over. Ask someone who installs wooden floors what can be applied to restrict the shrinkage. Linseed oil is often used on wood for this purpose, but I am not sure if it is the best choice for a wood floor.

Answer 3

Don't worry

The wood shrinks in the cold and expands in the summer. So during the winter you will have some gaps between the boards, but it will go back together during the warmer months.

Answer 4

The hardwood floor contracts (forms gaps) in the winter b/c it is so dry. Everything will even out again in the summer when the humidity level is higher.

Answer 5

Winter air is very dry. When the floor boards loose some of he moisture they shrink. An evaporator will help the flooring and your lungs.