How to Fix Gaps Between Hardwood Floor Planks

Gaps between hardwood floor planks can be unsightly and may even lead to drafts, making your home less comfortable. Whether you’re in Norwalk, Tarrytown, Stamford, White Plains, or nearby areas, it’s important to understand why these gaps occur and how to fix them effectively. In this guide, we’ll explore the causes of gaps in hardwood floors and provide practical solutions to restore the beauty of your flooring.

Why Do Gaps Occur Between Hardwood Planks?

Hardwood is a natural material that expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity. Gaps can form for several reasons:

1. Seasonal Changes in Humidity

• As the weather changes throughout the year, so does the humidity in your home. In the summer, increased humidity can cause hardwood to expand, while in the winter, lower humidity causes the wood to contract, resulting in gaps between planks.
• In areas like Norwalk and Stamford, where winters can be dry, seasonal gaps are a common occurrence.

2. Improper Acclimation

• Before installation, hardwood planks need time to acclimate to the home’s humidity and temperature. If the wood isn’t properly acclimated, it may contract after installation, leading to gaps.

3. Moisture Imbalance

• Excess moisture beneath the floor, often from leaks or a lack of moisture barriers, can lead to swelling and contraction. Over time, this can create gaps as the wood returns to its original size.

4. Poor Installation

• Inadequate fastening, insufficient subfloor preparation, or failure to leave expansion gaps can all contribute to gaps between hardwood planks.
• Homes in Tarrytown or White Plains with older floors may experience gaps due to shifts over time or issues with the original installation.

How to Fix Gaps Between Hardwood Floor Planks

Fixing gaps depends on the size of the gaps, the underlying cause, and the condition of the flooring. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you address the problem:

1. Assess the Size and Cause of the Gaps

• Before fixing the gaps, determine whether they are seasonal or permanent. Use a moisture meter to check the humidity in the room and the moisture content of the wood.
• If the gaps close up in the summer and reopen in the winter, they are likely seasonal and may not require major repairs.

2. Use Wood Putty for Small Gaps

• For minor gaps (less than 1/8 inch), wood putty is a quick and effective solution. Choose a putty color that matches your hardwood floor for a seamless look.
• Apply the putty into the gap using a putty knife, wipe away any excess, and allow it to dry. This solution works well for seasonal gaps that don’t require structural repairs.

3. Try Rope or Jute for Moderate Gaps

• For moderate gaps (1/8 to 1/4 inch), consider using jute or rope to fill the space. Choose a jute cord that matches the color of your hardwood for a more natural look.
• Dip the jute into wood glue, press it into the gap, and wipe away excess glue. This solution not only fills the gap but also allows for slight expansion and contraction.

4. Use Wood Slivers for Larger Gaps

• For larger gaps (greater than 1/4 inch), wood slivers cut from the same species as your floor can be used to fill the space.
• Cut slivers to fit the width and depth of the gap, apply wood glue, and gently tap them into place. Sand the surface smooth once the glue is dry, and finish with a matching wood stain or sealer for a seamless look.

5. Use a Floor Gap Fixer Tool

• A floor gap fixer is a specialized tool that allows you to tap the floorboards back into place. It works best for floating floors or floors that have shifted due to seasonal expansion and contraction.
• Place the tool on the gap, apply pressure, and use a mallet to shift the boards back together.

6. Refinishing for Widespread Gaps

• If gaps are widespread or significant throughout the room, sanding and refinishing the entire floor may be necessary.
• Sanding the surface smooth and applying a new finish can help reduce the appearance of gaps while also refreshing the overall look of the floor. This is a more extensive repair and is best performed by professionals, especially in older homes in Tarrytown or Stamford.

Preventing Future Gaps

Once you’ve fixed the gaps, taking preventive measures can help maintain the integrity of your hardwood floors:

1. Maintain Consistent Humidity

• Use a humidifier in the winter and a dehumidifier in the summer to maintain consistent humidity levels. Ideally, indoor humidity should be kept between 30-50% to prevent excessive expansion or contraction.
• Homes in Norwalk or White Plains, where humidity levels fluctuate throughout the year, can benefit greatly from this practice.

2. Proper Acclimation During Installation

• If you’re installing new hardwood floors, make sure the wood is allowed to acclimate to your home’s conditions for at least 3-7 days before installation.
• Ensure that installation is done by experienced professionals who understand the importance of moisture barriers and expansion gaps.

3. Regular Inspections

• Periodically inspect your hardwood floors for signs of gaps, movement, or moisture issues. Addressing small problems early can prevent more significant damage in the future.

4. Use Area Rugs in High-Traffic Areas

• Placing area rugs in high-traffic areas can reduce wear and tear on the floor, minimizing the risk of gaps forming over time.

When to Call a Professional

While minor gaps can often be fixed with DIY methods, more extensive gaps or underlying moisture issues may require professional assessment. At All Hardwoods & Carpet, we offer expert hardwood floor repair services in Norwalk, Tarrytown, Stamford, and White Plains. Our team can diagnose the cause of gaps, provide effective solutions, and ensure that your floors are restored to their original beauty.

Why Choose All Hardwoods & Carpet?

With years of experience, All Hardwoods & Carpet is a trusted name in hardwood floor installation, repair, and refinishing. Whether you’re dealing with minor gaps or more extensive damage, our team has the expertise to provide reliable, long-lasting solutions tailored to your home’s specific needs.

Get in Touch

If you’re facing gaps in your hardwood floors, contact us today for a free consultation!

• Norwalk Location: Call us at (203) 913-4209
• Tarrytown Location: Call us at (914) 415-5582
• Website: Visit hardwoodfloorsllc.com for more information or to schedule a service.

Address:
Norwalk Location: 123 Main St, Norwalk, CT
Tarrytown Location: 456 Broadway Ave, Tarrytown, NY