Laminate flooring is an affordable and attractive option for homeowners, but over time, you may notice gaps forming between the planks. These gaps can be unsightly and may even cause the floor to become unstable. Fortunately, there are simple ways to fix these gaps and restore your laminate flooring to its original condition. In this guide, we will walk you through how to fix floor gaps in laminate flooring with quick and easy tips.
Before we dive into the solutions, it’s important to understand why gaps form in the first place. Gaps in laminate floors are commonly caused by expansion and contraction due to changes in temperature and humidity. Additionally, poor installation, heavy foot traffic, or age can also contribute to the problem. Regardless of the cause, fixing these gaps is crucial for maintaining the integrity and appearance of your laminate floor.
1. Check the Room’s Humidity Levels
The first thing you should do when you notice gaps in your laminate flooring is check the humidity levels in your home. Laminate flooring is sensitive to moisture, and fluctuations in humidity can cause the planks to expand and contract. If the humidity levels are too high or too low, the flooring may not stay in place properly.
To regulate the humidity in the room, consider using a humidifier or dehumidifier. Aim for a humidity level between 30% and 50%, as this is ideal for laminate floors. Once the humidity level is stabilized, the gaps in your laminate floor may close on their own.
2. Reinstall the Flooring Planks
If adjusting the humidity doesn’t solve the problem, you may need to reinstall the flooring planks. Over time, laminate planks may shift or become loose, creating gaps between them. Reinstalling the planks can help realign them and eliminate the gaps.
To reinstall the planks, start by removing any baseboards or molding around the edges of the room. Next, gently lift the planks that are out of place. Depending on the installation method, you may need to use a crowbar or tapping block to disengage the interlocking edges. Once the planks are loose, carefully reposition them and tap them back into place using a hammer or mallet. Make sure the planks are snugly aligned to eliminate any visible gaps.
3. Use a Laminate Floor Gap Filler
If reinstalling the planks doesn’t work or you want a faster solution, you can use a laminate floor gap filler. These fillers are specifically designed to fill in the gaps between laminate flooring planks and restore the appearance of your floor.
Laminate floor gap fillers come in various forms, including putty, caulk, or foam strips. To use a gap filler, clean the area around the gap thoroughly, removing any dust or debris. For putty or caulk fillers, apply a thin layer of the product to the gap and smooth it out with a putty knife. For foam strips, cut the foam to the size of the gap and press it into place. Allow the filler to dry completely before walking on the floor.
4. Install Expansion Molding
If your laminate floor has expanded too much and is causing gaps between the planks, installing expansion molding may help solve the issue. Expansion molding is a trim that fits around the perimeter of the room, covering the space between the floor and the wall. This molding allows the laminate flooring to expand and contract without creating gaps.
To install expansion molding, first, measure the length of the gaps along the edges of the room. Cut the molding pieces to fit and nail them into place using finishing nails. Ensure the molding is securely attached, but leave a small gap between the molding and the floor to allow for expansion. Once the molding is in place, the gaps in your laminate floor should no longer be visible.
5. Replace Damaged Planks
If the gaps are caused by damaged or warped laminate planks, the best solution may be to replace the affected planks. Over time, laminate flooring can become scratched, cracked, or warped due to heavy use, moisture, or improper installation. If the damage is severe enough to cause gaps, replacing the planks will restore the floor’s appearance and functionality.
To replace damaged planks, start by removing the damaged pieces. Depending on the installation method, you may need to use a crowbar or tapping block to disengage the planks. Once the damaged planks are removed, carefully install new ones, making sure they fit snugly into place. If necessary, trim the new planks to fit the space. Once installed, the gaps should be gone, and your floor should look as good as new.
6. Prevent Future Gaps
Once you’ve fixed the gaps in your laminate flooring, it’s important to take steps to prevent them from forming again. To do this, consider the following tips:
- Maintain proper humidity levels in your home.
- Ensure that the laminate flooring is installed with the appropriate expansion gap around the edges.
- Avoid dragging heavy furniture across the floor, as this can cause the planks to shift.
- Regularly clean and maintain your laminate floor to prevent dirt and debris from causing damage.
By following these preventative measures, you can extend the life of your laminate flooring and keep it looking great for years to come.
FAQs
Q1: How can I tell if the gap in my laminate floor is serious?
A1: If the gap is large, or if the laminate is warping or buckling, it may be a sign of more serious issues like moisture damage. In these cases, it’s best to replace the damaged planks.
Q2: Can I fix gaps in laminate flooring without replacing planks?
A2: Yes, you can fill small gaps using a laminate floor gap filler, or reinstall the planks if they have shifted. For larger gaps, expansion molding can be a good solution.
Q3: Will the gap filler be visible after it dries?
A3: If applied correctly, gap fillers should blend in with the color of your laminate flooring. Make sure to smooth the filler thoroughly to ensure it matches the floor.
Q4: How long will it take to fix gaps in laminate flooring?
A4: Most gap-fixing solutions, such as reinstallation or applying gap fillers, can be completed within a few hours. If replacing planks, it may take a little longer depending on the number of damaged planks.
Q5: Can high humidity cause laminate flooring to buckle?
A5: Yes, excessive humidity can cause laminate flooring to expand and buckle. It’s important to regulate the humidity levels in your home to prevent this from happening.
Fixing gaps in laminate flooring is a simple process that can help maintain both the appearance and functionality of your floor. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can quickly and easily address the issue and enjoy a beautiful, gap-free floor once again.