How to Fix Gaps in Laminate Flooring Between Planks
Gaps between laminate planks are a common complaint. They can appear weeks or months after installation. The good news is most gaps are temporary and caused by seasonal humidity changes. This guide explains why gaps happen and how to fix them.
Why Gaps Occur
Laminate flooring is made from HDF, a wood based material that expands and contracts with humidity changes. When indoor humidity drops in winter, the planks contract and gaps can appear. When humidity rises in summer, the planks expand and the gaps close.
Normal gap size is 0.5mm to 1mm during dry months. These gaps are cosmetic and do not affect the floor's performance. They usually close on their own when humidity returns to normal levels.
Gaps larger than 2mm may indicate a different problem. Possible causes include improper installation, insufficient acclimation, or a defective locking mechanism.
Temporary Seasonal Gaps
If the gaps appeared during winter heating season, they are likely temporary. Measure the gap width. If it is under 1mm, do nothing. The floor will expand when humidity rises in spring.
You can speed up gap closure by using a humidifier. Maintain indoor humidity at 40 to 50 percent. The gaps should close within a few weeks. Do not use a steam cleaner to add moisture to the floor. This can damage the surface.
Permanent Gaps From Installation Issues
If gaps do not close when humidity increases, they may be caused by installation problems. Common causes include:
- Planks were not fully clicked together during installation
- The subfloor was not flat enough
- The floor was installed without acclimation
- The expansion gap around the perimeter is insufficient
For these gaps, simple humidity adjustment will not fix the problem. The planks need to be manually closed.
Fixing Gaps With a Tapping Block
For gaps that appeared in the first few rows from a wall, you can access the edge and tap the planks together.
1. Remove the baseboard near the gap
2. Use a pull bar to hook the last row of planks
3. Tap the pull bar with a hammer to close the gap
4. Work from the wall toward the gap, closing each row progressively
5. Replace the baseboard
This method works best for gaps that are within 5 rows from a wall.
Fixing Gaps in the Middle of the Room
For gaps that are far from any wall, use a double sided tape method:
1. Apply strong double sided tape to a scrap block of wood
2. Press the tape onto the plank with the gap, near the gap location
3. Tap the wood block sideways to slide the plank toward the gap
4. The tape grips the plank surface and allows you to close the gap
5. Remove the tape and wood block
This method can close gaps of 1mm to 3mm. For larger gaps, partial disassembly may be needed.
When to Replace Planks
Replace planks if:
- The gap is over 3mm and cannot be closed
- Multiple gaps appear in a pattern suggesting a manufacturing defect
- The gap is accompanied by edge swelling from moisture
- The locking mechanism is visibly damaged
Preventing Future Gaps
Proper installation prevents most gaps. Acclimate the laminate for 72 hours before installation. Leave proper expansion gaps around the perimeter. Maintain consistent humidity levels throughout the year.
About PROLEADER
PROLEADER manufactures laminate flooring with precision locking mechanisms for tighter joints. Contact us for installation guides and humidity recommendations.
