Gaps in a laminate floor are like a leaky tap that constantly makes an annoying dripping noise. It is not serious, but very irritating. In this blog, we dive deeper into the problem of cracks between the planks. We explore the causes of this phenomenon, from moisture to floor heating, and offer practical solutions to prevent them. Have some fun and prevent unnecessary gaps 😉. Take a closer look at all the factors to keep your floor in top condition!
Low or excessive moisture
The perfect look of your laminate flooring is linked to the humidity in your living environment. It is a factor that can affect the appearance and quality of your floor. Whether it is too dry or too humid, both extremes can lead to annoying problems, such as the formation of gaps in your laminate flooring. Laminate planks tend to shrink when humidity is low, creating unwanted gaps between the planks. On the other hand, if the humidity is too high, the planks can expand, also resulting in unwanted gaps between the planks.
Measurement is knowledge, so purchase a hygrometer before the floor is laid. To avoid problems, it is essential to maintain an optimal level of humidity. Fortunately, there are simple solutions to achieve this. For instance, In drier conditions, for example, you can use humidifiers to increase humidity. On the other hand, in humid environments, adequate ventilation is an effective way to regulate humidity.
What is the ideal humidity level?
The ideal humidity for floors is generally between 45% and 65%. This range provides an optimal environment in which your laminate flooring can be laid without problems.
 Acclimatising laminate floor
One aspect that is often overlooked but crucial during the installation process of laminate flooring is acclimatising the floor. The purpose of this process is to allow the laminate flooring to adapt to the temperature and humidity of the room. Compare it to keeping a newborn baby warm; you want to provide constant warmth and avoid cold. The acclimatisation process minimises the chances of shrinkage or expansion after installation. It is essential to maintain humidity both once the floor is in place and during the acclimatisation process.
The correct acclimatisation process is to leave the packs in the room where they will be installed for at least 48 hours. This will allow the boards to adapt to the conditions and reduce the chances of them cracking. By acclimatising, you also reduce the chances of gaps.
Incorrect use of underfloor heating
If you do not have underfloor heating, this piece of information may not be relevant to your situation. Nevertheless, it’s never a bad idea to get informed; who knows, it might come in handy later. While underfloor heating can be a luxurious and comfortable addition to a home, it is important to know that using it incorrectly can have negative consequences for laminate flooring. For example, inappropriate settings of the underfloor heating, such as extreme temperatures, can cause the boards to crack and create in gaps. To avoid this problem, it is essential to follow the heating protocol carefully and ensure that extreme temperature fluctuations do not occur. By maintaining a moderate temperature and allowing gradual changes in heating, you will minimise cracking in the floor and prevent gaps.
Using the right subfloor
Another often overlooked but crucial part of laminate installation is the choice of subfloor. The wrong subfloor can contribute to the formation of gaps, among other things. The subfloor affects the absorption, insulation and stability of the floor. An incorrect choice can lead to uneven pressure distribution and movement of the laminate boards.
For both laminate and click Vinyl, it is important to check that the sub-floor meets the requirements of your floor. A correctly selected subfloor will not only extend the life of the floor, but will also help to prevent gaps.
Did you know?
The Non-Contact underlay is equipped with a moisture-resistant foil and an adhesive strip. This prevents residual moisture in the subfloor from penetrating the laminate. This underlay also reduces walking noise by up to 25%, resulting in a more solid walking sound.
Fixing gaps in laminate
I always say: better to prevent than to cure. But once gaps have appeared in a laminate floor, it is important to find effective solutions. Depending on the size and severity of the gaps, different approaches are possible. If there are gaps in the floor and you have no idea what the humidity level is, it may be advisable to check it. If you ensure that the correct humidity level is maintained, the boards may return to their original state. In cases where the gaps are larger or where multiple gaps have formed, it may be wise to seek professional help. An experienced professional can assess the situation, identify any underlying problems and make the necessary repairs.
In summary, gaps in a laminate floor can be very annoying, but with the right preventative measures they can be avoided. By keeping an eye on the indoor climate and installing the floor correctly, you can ensure that your floor not only remains beautiful, but that you enjoy it for longer. Also, unlike Vinyl floors, laminate floors are not completely water resistant, so moisture can be a problem for laminate. Are you interested in a laminate floor that is waterproof for 4 hours? Then discover the City Laminate!
