Why Does My Laminate Floor Have Gaps Between Planks
Gaps between laminate planks are a common complaint. They appear most often in winter when indoor humidity drops. This article explains why gaps occur and what is normal.
Seasonal Gaps
Laminate has an HDF core made from compressed wood fiber. Wood fibers release moisture in dry conditions. In winter when heating systems dry the air, the planks contract. Gaps of 0.5mm to 1mm appear between planks.
These seasonal gaps are normal. They will close when humidity rises in spring and summer. They do not indicate a defect. Most laminate products have seasonal movement built into the design.
Installation Gaps
If gaps appear within weeks of installation and do not close with seasonal changes, the cause is likely installation related. Common installation causes include planks not fully engaged during installation, insufficient acclimation time before installation, subfloor not flat enough, or wrong tapping technique that damaged the locking mechanism.
Quality Related Gaps
Lower quality laminate has wider manufacturing tolerances. The locking mechanism is less precise. The planks do not fit together as tightly. Gaps are more likely to develop over time.
Premium laminate with tighter manufacturing tolerances has less seasonal movement and fewer gaps.
When Gaps Indicate a Problem
Gaps over 2mm wide that do not close in summer indicate a problem. Gaps that appear in multiple rows in a pattern may indicate a manufacturing defect. Gaps accompanied by edge swelling indicate moisture damage.
About PROLEADER
PROLEADER laminate flooring features precision locking mechanisms for tighter joints. Contact us for product specifications.
