Do I need expansion gaps when fitting wood flooring?

Wood is a natural material and will expand or shrink depending on the environment. That’s why it’s essential to leave a 10–15mm expansion gap between your flooring and any fixed points—like walls, door frames, and pipes.

This small gap might seem insignificant, but it prevents the floor from warping, buckling, or lifting over time. Use spacers during installation to keep the gap consistent, and cover it later with skirting boards or beading.

If you're fitting flooring in a large room, or across multiple rooms, consider leaving expansion gaps in doorways or threshold joints too. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference to the floor's performance and lifespan.