• The Handy Homeowner
  • Posts
  • 🏚 Home Tips #9: Fixing Separating Laminate Flooring: Easy DIY Repair Guide

🏚 Home Tips #9: Fixing Separating Laminate Flooring: Easy DIY Repair Guide

Author

Ron Henderson
September 03, 2024 • Read Time: 5 minutes

🔨 Fixing Separating Laminate Flooring

Got a case of the gap-toothed laminate floor blues?

It happens. Laminate flooring can be a real crowd-pleaser with its easy installation and stylish looks, but over time, those pesky little gaps start showing up between the planks, like missing teeth in a jack-o'-lantern.

Luckily, fixing separated laminate flooring is one of those DIY tasks that won't leave you pulling your hair out—or your wallet.

Let’s dive into what causes these gaps and how you can fix them without calling in a pro.

The Pros & Cons

😊 Pros

  • Cost-Effective: Repairing gaps in your laminate floor is a cheap fix compared to replacing the entire floor or hiring a pro. Most fixes can be done with basic tools you probably already have.

  • Quick and Easy: This isn’t a weekend-long project. In most cases, you can fix those gaps in under an hour, and you’ll feel like a champ when it’s done.

  • No Special Skills Required: If you can swing a hammer without hitting your thumb, you’ve got the skills needed to handle this task.

  • Extends Floor Life: Regular maintenance, including closing up those pesky gaps, can help your laminate floor last longer and look great over time.

😡 Cons

  • Temporary Fix: Many gap repairs are temporary, especially if caused by environmental changes. The gaps may reappear in a few months.

  • Visible Seams: If not done carefully, the repairs might make the seams more noticeable, especially if the flooring is older.

  • Possible Damage: Excessive force can damage the locking mechanism of the planks, making the problem worse or requiring plank replacement.

  • Time-Consuming if Persistent: If the gaps keep reappearing, you might find yourself fixing them repeatedly, which can get frustrating.

🤷‍♂️ Why Does Laminate Flooring Separate?

Laminate flooring separates due to temperature and humidity fluctuations, poor installation, and regular wear and tear. The planks expand in the summer heat and contract in the winter cold, creating those unsightly gaps.

If the flooring wasn't installed correctly with tight seams, or if the underlayment isn't up to par, you're more likely to see the problem sooner.

And of course, life happens—heavy foot traffic, moving furniture, and even your pets can contribute to the shifting of planks.

🏡 How to Fix Separated Laminate Flooring

You’ll need:

  • Vacuum or broom

  • Wood Glue (suitable for laminate flooring)

  • Damp Cloth

  • Running Shoes (yes, really!)

Steps:

  1. Clean the Gap: Start by cleaning the gap between the planks. Use a broom or vacuum to get rid of any dust, dirt, or debris stuck in there. A clean surface helps the glue bond better.

  2. Vacuum Thoroughly: Go over the gap with a vacuum to ensure it’s free of any particles. This step is crucial for getting a strong bond when the glue is applied.

  3. Apply Wood Glue: Squeeze a thin bead of wood glue directly into the gap between the planks. Don’t overdo it—you just need enough to secure the edges without creating a mess.

  4. Kick the Planks Together: Put on your running shoes, and give the separated plank a good, firm kick to nudge it back into place. A few well-aimed kicks should bring the planks snugly together. Be careful not to overdo it—you want them to slide, not break.

  5. Wipe Up Excess Glue: Use a damp cloth to clean up any excess glue that squeezes out when the planks come together. Don’t wait too long, or the glue will start to set and be much harder to remove.

  6. Let Dry Before Walking On: Give the glue time to dry fully before walking on the repaired area. Check the glue’s instructions for drying time, but a couple of hours should do the trick for most types.

✔ Tips & Tricks

  • Keep an Eye on Humidity: Use a humidifier during the winter to keep indoor humidity levels stable. Ideally, keep it between 35-55% to prevent flooring from shrinking.

  • Furniture Pads Are Your Friend: Use felt pads under furniture to prevent movement that could shift the planks.

  • Avoid Water Exposure: Laminate doesn’t like water, so avoid wet mopping, which can cause planks to swell and gaps to form.

🛠 When to call a Pro

If you’ve tried fixing the gaps multiple times and they keep coming back, or if you notice severe shifting, it might be time to call in a professional. A pro can assess whether there’s a deeper issue, like a problem with the subfloor or improper installation, and provide a more permanent solution.

❓ Q & A: Is Laminate Flooring Waterproof?

No, laminate flooring is not inherently waterproof, but it can be water-resistant depending on the type you choose.

Traditional laminate has a core made of high-density fiberboard (HDF), which can swell and warp if exposed to water for prolonged periods. This is the most common type in most homes today.

However, newer laminate products have been designed with water-resistant and fully waterproof features.

Ron
The Handy Homeowner

Transform your home with confidence, one tip at a time!

Like newsletters? Here are some other awesome (and completely free!) newsletters our readers also enjoy. Click Here to Explore

This email may contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase using these links.