Crowning

Description
This is when the centre of the plank is raised up higher than the edges of the floorboard. Again this can develop into the more serious problem of buckling.

Possible causes
Crowning can be caused by excessive moisture being introduced onto the top surface of the wood floor, resulting in the top surface being wetter than the bottom, which is contact with the sub floor.

There are many possible causes of moisture changes, including excessive water used during cleaning or maintenance of the wooden floor, and plumbing leaks from radiators, dishwashers, washing machines etc.

It's also possible that the wood floorboards initially cupped due to dampness on the sub floor side, which was corrected by sanding before the floor had flattened of its own accord.

Remedial tips
Make sure that the floor has stabilised and completely settled and then sand flat and finish.

Remember that wood floors are a natural product and are hygroscopic - they naturally take on excessive moisture from the atmosphere, which is a positive benefit to the indoor environment.

However, this does mean that it is normal for some slight gaps, cupping and crowning to occur in wood floors in changing weather seasons - especially in wider solid planks.

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