How To Deal With Laminate Flooring End Gaps

Laminate flooring is a popular choice for its durability, affordability, and aesthetic appeal, but sometimes end gaps can appear between the planks. These gaps can be unsightly and potentially damaging if left unaddressed. Don’t worry – we’ve got the solutions you need to fix those pesky gaps and prevent them from happening in the future. Let’s dive in!

Understanding Laminate Flooring End Gaps

What are End Gaps?

End gaps are the spaces that appear between the ends of laminate flooring planks. These gaps can occur for several reasons, including:

• Improper Installation: Incorrect installation techniques can lead to gaps.
• Temperature and Humidity Changes: Laminate flooring expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity, potentially causing gaps.
• Subfloor Issues: An uneven or improperly prepared subfloor can cause planks to shift and create gaps.
• Wear and Tear: Over time, regular use and movement can cause planks to separate.

Causes of Laminate Flooring End Gaps

1. Improper Installation

Cause:

Gaps can occur if the planks were not installed correctly, such as not leaving enough expansion gaps around the perimeter or not locking the planks together properly.

Solution:

• Professional Installation: Ensure that the flooring is installed by a professional or follow manufacturer guidelines carefully if DIY.
• Expansion Gaps: Always leave the recommended expansion gaps around the room’s edges to accommodate natural movement.

2. Temperature and Humidity Changes

Cause:

Laminate flooring can expand and contract with fluctuations in temperature and humidity, leading to gaps.

Solution:

• Climate Control: Maintain a consistent indoor climate using heating and cooling systems to minimize fluctuations.
• Acclimation: Allow the flooring to acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours before installation.

3. Subfloor Issues

Cause:

An uneven or improperly prepared subfloor can cause laminate planks to shift and create gaps.

Solution:

• Subfloor Preparation: Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level before installation. Use a levelling compound if necessary.
• Underlayment: Use a high-quality underlayment to provide a smooth, even surface for the laminate flooring.

4. Wear and Tear

Cause:

Regular use and movement over time can cause planks to separate and create gaps.

Solution:

• Regular Maintenance: Perform regular inspections and maintenance to identify and address issues early.
• Proper Footwear: Encourage the use of soft-soled shoes or slippers to reduce wear and tear on the flooring.

How to Fix Laminate Flooring End Gaps

1. Using a Floor Gap Fixer Tool

A floor gap fixer tool, often called a “floor gap tool” or “pull bar,” is designed to help close gaps between laminate planks.

Steps:

1. Clean the Area: Ensure the area around the gap is clean and free of debris.
2. Place the Tool: Position the floor gap tool against the plank with the gap.
3. Apply Pressure: Tap the tool gently with a mallet to slide the plank back into place. Be careful not to damage the plank.
4. Check for Alignment: Ensure the plank is properly aligned with the adjacent planks.

2. Using Wood Glue

For more permanent fixes, wood glue can be used to secure the planks together.

Steps:

1. Clean the Area: Ensure the area around the gap is clean and free of debris.
2. Apply Glue: Apply a small amount of wood glue to the gap between the planks.
3. Close the Gap: Use a floor gap tool or gently tap the planks with a mallet to close the gap.
4. Wipe Excess Glue: Wipe away any excess glue with a damp cloth.
5. Let it Dry: Allow the glue to dry completely before walking on the floor.

3. Using Adhesive Strips

Adhesive strips can be used to secure the planks together and prevent them from separating again.

Steps:

1. Clean the Area: Ensure the area around the gap is clean and free of debris.
2. Apply Adhesive Strips: Place adhesive strips along the edges of the planks where the gap has appeared.
3. Press and Hold: Press the planks together and hold them in place for a few minutes to ensure a strong bond.
4. Check Alignment: Ensure the planks are properly aligned.

4. Using Fillers and Sealants

Fillers and sealants can be used to fill small gaps and prevent dirt and moisture from entering.

Steps:

1. Choose the Right Filler: Select a filler or sealant that matches the colour of your laminate flooring.
2. Clean the Area: Ensure the area around the gap is clean and free of debris.
3. Apply the Filler: Apply the filler or sealant to the gap, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Smooth the Surface: Use a putty knife to smooth the surface and remove any excess filler.
5. Let it Dry: Allow the filler to dry completely before walking on the floor.

Preventing Future End Gaps

Regular Maintenance

Tips:

• Inspect Regularly: Regularly inspect your laminate flooring for signs of gaps or damage.
• Prompt Repairs: Address any gaps or issues as soon as they appear to prevent them from worsening.

Climate Control

Tips:

• Consistent Temperature: Maintain a consistent indoor temperature using heating and cooling systems.
• Humidity Control: Use humidifiers or dehumidifiers to maintain optimal humidity levels (ideally between 35-50%).

Proper Installation

Tips:

• Follow Guidelines: Adhere to the manufacturer’s installation guidelines to ensure a proper fit.
• Professional Help: Consider hiring a professional for installation to avoid common mistakes.

Quality Materials

Tips:

• High-Quality Laminate: Invest in high-quality laminate flooring that is less prone to issues.
• Good Underlayment: Use a high-quality underlayment to provide a stable base for your laminate flooring.

Additional Tips

Use Furniture Pads

• Protect the Floor: Attach felt pads to the legs of furniture to prevent scratches and reduce the risk of planks shifting.

Avoid Dragging Heavy Items

• Lift, Don’t Drag: Lift heavy items instead of dragging them across the floor to prevent damage and gaps.

Further Reading

For those of you who love diving deep into home improvement and flooring care tips, here are some fantastic resources:

• Why Is My Laminate Flooring Expanding?
• How To Fix Lifting Laminate Flooring
  

We hope this guide helps you understand how to deal with laminate flooring end gaps and keep your floors looking flawless.