How To Fix Gaps In Laminate Flooring: Two Easy Methods Of Fixing Gaps In Laminate Flooring


Two Easy Methods Of Fixing Gaps In Laminate Flooring

With the passage of time as well as wear & tear, unattractive gaps start to appear in interlocking laminate flooring. However, this is not a big problem and can be fixed easily without requiring to replace the entire laminate flooring. To fix this issue, you will simply need a tube of wood glue, or a mallet and flat heavy object in order to provide great deal of traction to let you tap the planks back into place.

Method 1: Using A Floor Gap Fixer

  1. Purchase A Floor Gap Fixer Tool: The majority of the companies, nowadays, have special devices particularly designed to make it easier to close small gaps in hardwood as well as laminate flooring. Small, heavy rectangular blocks are present having an adhesive rubber face that offers traction to drive the slipped plank back into place with the help of a few taps of a mallet.
  2. Remove The Protective Backing: Take off the plastic covering in order to expose the tacky rubber pad underneath. This surface will be very useful to take hold of the laminate plank although forcing it back into place manually. The floor gap fixer adhesive pad is reusable, unless & until it’s properly cleaned betwixt projects.
  3. Position The Block 1 Inch From The End Of One Of The Displaced Planks: Now, place the tool in the middle of either plank, then press down smoothly on the topside with the help of both hands in order to anchor it. It should adhere to the plank firmly to stop it from slipping while you work.
  4. Work Toward The Center Of The Floor & Away From The Wall: When working with the floor gap fixer, the best option is to move the problem plank towards the center of the floor, instead of outward towards the wall. This will make sure that the far end remains hidden by the baseboard. If in case you go towards the wall, then, as a result, you may have to deal with gaps in adjoining planks.
  5. Tap The End Of The Block With A Mallet To Close The Gap: Now, secure the tool using one hand and give the side situated at the greatest distance from the gap a couple whacks in order to move the loose plank closer to the one it’s moved away from. Keep tapping the block as long as the plank rests comfortably against its neighbor.
  6. Repeat With Any Remaining Gaps: With the help of the block and mallet, fix any other slipped planks that will appear in your laminate flooring. Work rigorously in order to keep your floor looking neat & clean. If required, wipe off any dust or debris that will gather on the adhesive pad with the help of a damp cloth before using it again.

Method2: Filling Gaps With Wood Glue

  1. Scoop Up A Glob Of Wood Glue: A toothpick or cotton swab, are the best options when it comes to reaching down into the narrow space. Disposable syringes can also be used for precision application. The best thing is that the glue only ends up on the channels where the planks interlock.
  2. Swab The Glue Onto The Exposed Tongue Of The Displaced Plank: On the inner part of the gap, you can see the squared edge where the base of the plank is designed to adjust together with the top of the next one in the row. Now, apply a thick glue coat to this surface, focusing for even coverage from one end to the other. If you don’t apply the required amount of glue, the repaired section of flooring may not take long under constant foot traffic.
  3. Push The Separated Planks Together To Close The Gap: Next, strike the plank at an angle again & again with the palm of your hand. For a less forceful approach, try positioning both hands flat against the plank and guiding it steadily towards its neighbor using your full body weight.
  4. Wipe Away The Excess Glue: With the help of a damp rag, blot at the glue compressing up through the cracks in the newly-repaired gap, after that go over the seam as long as no residue remains. Any adhesive left behind can result in mild discoloration in the laminate. If in case you used caulk or wood putty in order to fill the gap, then sand down the excess material as long as it has had time to dry. If you are looking for the smoothest finish, use 180-grit sandpaper or higher. The majority of the wood glues dry clear, meaning they won’t be visible in the seam betwixt the two planks.
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