We're in Barrhaven and our main floor hardwood has slight movement near the kitchen — is that normal in open concept layouts?

Slight hardwood movement near kitchens in open concept layouts is common, especially in Ottawa's climate, but it shouldn't be excessive or create noticeable gaps, cupping, or squeaking during normal seasonal changes.

Hardwood naturally expands and contracts with humidity fluctuations, and kitchens create unique moisture conditions from cooking, dishwashers, and sink use. In open concept homes, this moisture can affect a larger continuous flooring area. Winter heating in Ottawa drops indoor humidity to 20-30%, while summer can reach 50-60%, causing predictable seasonal movement. However, proper installation with adequate expansion gaps around the perimeter and transitions should accommodate this movement without issues.

The type of movement matters significantly. Normal seasonal movement shows as slight gaps between boards in winter (1-2mm) that close in summer. Concerning movement includes cupping (board edges higher than centers), crowning (centers higher than edges), or gaps wider than a nickel. Engineered hardwood typically shows less movement than solid hardwood due to its layered construction, making it often preferable for open concept layouts and areas near kitchens.

Barrhaven's newer construction often features concrete subfloors, which can retain moisture longer than wood subfloors. If your hardwood was installed without proper moisture testing or acclimation, or if there's inadequate vapor barrier over concrete, you might see more movement than expected. Kitchen appliances, particularly dishwashers, can also create localized humidity spikes that affect nearby flooring.

Monitor the movement patterns - if gaps consistently exceed 3-4mm or you notice cupping/crowning, have a licensed flooring contractor assess the installation and subfloor conditions. For peace of mind about your specific situation, Ottawa Floor Install offers free consultations to evaluate hardwood movement concerns in Barrhaven homes.