How to Fill in Gaps Between Poorly Laid Vinyl Plank Flooring

Installing vinyl plank flooring can be an effective way of installing cheaper flooring while retaining the look and feel of a wood floor. However, putting in this flooring is an art form, and sometimes gaps can appear between poorly laid boards. If you have this problem, then you may be wondering what you can do, both to improve the look of your vinyl plank flooring and also to fill in gaps that can allow cold to enter from the subfloor.

Apply Epoxy

If you have fairly small gaps, then one solution would be to pour a water-proof epoxy resin into the gaps. Only a tiny amount will be needed for each gap. You should only use just enough to cover the surface and ensure that the holes are filled. Small gaps can also be filled in using grout, by simply smearing this on, and then painting it the same shade as the vinyl flooring.

WARNING: Epoxy products can be toxic to breathe in, so remember to check the room's properly ventilated and to put on a face mask before you start working.

For Larger Holes

Larger holes may require more severe action, such as putting in small pieces of wood or plastic into the gaps, and sealing using a glue bond. If you have any spare vinyl left over from your flooring, cut this into the right shape, and then seal it into place. You can also use varnished wood, which can be painted black to complete the wood floor effect.

Benefits of Vinyl

You may want to fill in gaps to fix the vinyl because of the flooring's distinct advantages over hardwood. Vinyl looks like hardwood but is much cheaper to purchase and can be installed for as little as $5 per square foot. The installation is also incredibly easy and fast.

Vinyl is also moisture resistant meaning it can be used in rooms like bathrooms and kitchens. It is also easy to clean and incredibly durable, making it a good option for homes with pets.

Fill in Gaps Between Vinyl Plank Flooring FAQ

What is the best way to fill gaps in vinyl flooring?

Vinyl flooring can develop noticeable gaps as the floor settles and time passes. The best way to repair this is to close the gaps by moving the floorboards, but you can also fill the gaps.

Caulk can be used to fill the gaps. Use a color that matches the floor so the gaps will no longer be noticeable.

Why is my floating floor separating?

Temperature changes, humidity, and planks not acclimating properly before placement can all cause gaps in vinyl plank floors. Floor planks will naturally shink in cold temperatures and swell slightly on hot days, which is why a little bit of a gap is often included between planks when they are placed.

What do you fill floor gaps with?

You have several options for filling gaps in plank flooring. Simple wood putty or caulk will work well to fill these gaps, and they're both easy to find at hardware stores.

A mixture of resin and sawdust can also be used to fill gaps in floors. Wood slivers will also work well.

All of these options are highly affordable and fairly easy to use, even for the casual DIYer.

Do floating floors eventually settle?

Floating floors will settle in time. If you notice a bounciness when they are first installed, rest easy that this will likely fade as the floors settle.

What kind of caulk do you use for floor gaps?

There are more multiple types of caulk that can be used for various DIY tasks, but silicone caulk is the best option for vinyl plank flooring.