How do I close up the separation between the boards on laminated floor

Gra24343924
by Gra24343924
  5 answers
  • Rodger Tucker Rodger Tucker on Jun 08, 2017

    Installation issues ? Too many varients to your question in order to correctly answer.

    • Gra24343924 Gra24343924 on Jun 10, 2017

      Rodger, thank you. The floor was installed approx. 6 years ago. About 2 years ago, I noticed spaces at the ends of some of the boards, although they weren't too bad. Now it seems the spaces are getting more noticeable. I'm afraid to take the borders off and push the boards inwards, but I don't want to make more projects if I damage the boards. I don't know if the boards can shrink or if the humidity levels are a reason. I live in Florida.

  • Sharon Sharon on Jun 09, 2017

    Sounds like it wasn't properly installed. You might have to disassemble back to the board that didn't seperate, and make sure you tap them in using a mallet and chunk of wood, or maybe it was supposed to be nailed using a flooring nail gun (rent). You might call the manufacturer to see what they recommend. I would watch a video or two on YouTube to get the hang of it.

    • Gra24343924 Gra24343924 on Jun 10, 2017

      Thank you Sharon.

      I thought about removing the trim around the room to push the boards closer, but some of the boards that are separating are in the center of the room. I'm afraid I will do more harm than good. The floor was installed aprox. 6 years ago and I noticed the separation over the past 2 years. May be due to shrinkage and/or humidity as I live in FL.

  • Sharon Sharon on Jun 10, 2017

    Heck I would call out whoever installed to see what they recommend. I don't think it could shrink that much in a humid climate like Florida, that would more likely lead to buckling from not enough area being left along the walls for expansion/contraction. You could also call the manufacturer, and tell them it was professionally installed, and send them a photo of whats happening.

    • I second your suggestion. To me it was a sloppy installation. Go back to where you purchased and raise a stink if politeness does not work. I would also contact the manufacturer, as they can be sympathetic and try to help out.

  • Sharon Sharon on Jun 10, 2017

    Yes some of those laminate floors from Lumber Liquidators have recalls on their products, and they have replaced many in our area.

  • Rodger Tucker Rodger Tucker on Jun 11, 2017

    Decisions only you can make Grammy. Its pretty difficult to help on an issue such as yours without seeing it first hand. I wish you good luck & blessings on getting it fixed !