How to Fill Gaps in Wood Floor?

Hardwood floors are a beautiful and durable addition to any home, but over time, gaps can develop between the boards. These gaps can be caused by a variety of factors, including humidity, temperature changes, and the natural movement of the wood.

Filling gaps in hardwood floors is important not only for aesthetic reasons but also for the structural integrity of the floor. There are several methods available for filling gaps in hardwood floors, including using wooden slivers and wood glue, wood putty, epoxy filler, and floor filler sticks.

In this comparison guide, we will take a closer look at each of these methods, including their cost, ease of use, durability, and effectiveness.

Here are some methods to fill gaps in wood floor

1. Using Wooden Slivers and Wood Glue

The “Using wooden slivers and wood glue” method is a common way to fill gaps in hardwood floors. It is a relatively simple process and can be done by a handy homeowner.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use this method, along with a list of tools needed:

1. Gather the tools: You will need wooden slivers (larch wood is recommended), wood glue, a hammer, a chisel, and a putty knife.
2. Prepare the area: Clear the area around the gap and make sure it is clean and free of debris. Use the chisel to carefully remove any old glue or filler that may be present in the gap.
3. Cut the slivers: Cut the wooden slivers to the appropriate size to fit the gap. The slivers should be slightly smaller in width than the gap, but slightly longer in length so that they can be hammered in.
4. Apply the glue: Apply a small amount of wood glue to the edge of the sliver.
5. Insert the sliver: Carefully insert the sliver into the gap. Use the hammer to gently tap the sliver until it is flush with the surface of the floor.
6. Wipe away excess glue: Use a putty knife to remove any excess glue from the surface of the floor.
7. Allow to dry: Allow the glue to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions before walking on the floor or applying any finish.

It is important to note that this method is suitable for gaps that are not too wide, and it is not recommended to use this method on gaps wider than 1/4 inch. Also, it is important to use wood glue and not regular adhesive to avoid any issues with the expansion or contraction of the wood.

2. Wood Putty

The “Wood putty” method is another common way to fill gaps in hardwood floors. It is an easy process that can be done by a handy homeowner with minimal tools.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use this method, along with a list of tools needed:

1. Gather the tools: You will need wood putty, a putty knife, and a finger.
2. Prepare the area: Clear the area around the gap and make sure it is clean and free of debris.
3. Apply the putty: Using the putty knife, apply a small amount of wood putty to the gap.
4. Spread the putty: Use your finger to spread the putty evenly into the gap, ensuring that it fills the gap completely.
5. Smooth the surface: Use the putty knife to smooth the surface of the putty to match the surrounding wood.
6. Allow to dry: Allow the putty to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions before walking on the floor or applying any finish.

It is important to choose wood putty that matches the color of your hardwood flooring as closely as possible and to be mindful not to apply too much putty, as it will cause the floor to rise and not be flush. Also, be careful when using the putty knife not to scratch the finish of your flooring.

3. Epoxy Filler

The “Epoxy filler” method is a more advanced way to fill gaps in hardwood floors. It is a strong and durable option, but it can be difficult to work with and may require professional installation.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use this method, along with a list of tools needed:

1. Gather the tools: You will need a two-part epoxy filler, a mixing stick, a putty knife or trowel, and a finger or a plastic scraper.
2. Prepare the area: Clear the area around the gap and make sure it is clean and free of debris. Use a chisel to carefully remove any old glue or filler that may be present in the gap.
3. Mix the epoxy: Follow the instructions on the epoxy filler package to mix the two parts of the epoxy together. Mix only as much as you can use in the next 10-15 minutes, as epoxy will start to harden after that time.
4. Apply the epoxy: Use a putty knife or trowel to apply the epoxy to the gap, making sure to fill it completely.
5. Smooth the surface: Use a finger or a plastic scraper to smooth the surface of the epoxy to match the surrounding wood.
6. Allow to dry: Allow the epoxy to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This process could take 24-48 hours or more depending on the product and ambient temperature.

It is important to note that epoxy is a very strong adhesive and it is difficult to remove once it has hardened. It is also important to wear gloves and protect the surrounding area with painter’s tape or drop cloths as epoxy can be hard to remove once it gets on surfaces.

Additionally, epoxy can be sensitive to temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors, so it’s important to check and follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the application conditions.

4. Floor Filler Sticks

The “Floor filler sticks” method is an easy and convenient way to fill gaps in hardwood floors. It is a good option for homeowners who want a quick and easy solution without the need for professional installation.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use this method, along with a list of tools needed:

1. Gather the tools: You will need floor filler sticks and a hammer or mallet.
2. Prepare the area: Clear the area around the gap and make sure it is clean and free of debris.
3. Insert the filler sticks: Take a floor filler stick and insert it into the gap. Use a hammer or mallet to gently tap the stick into place.
4. Repeat the process: Repeat the process until the gap is filled.
5. Trim the sticks: Once the gap is filled, use a sharp utility knife or saw to trim the filler sticks so that they are flush with the floor.
6. Finish: Once the filler sticks are trimmed, you can then proceed with your desired finish.

It’s important to choose floor filler sticks that are the same color as your hardwood floor, so that it will blend in seamlessly. Additionally, make sure that the gap is clean and free of debris before inserting the filler sticks, as this will ensure a secure fit and a better finish.

Comparison Between Each How to Fill Gaps in Wood Floor

Cost Comparison

• Wooden slivers and wood glue: This method can be relatively inexpensive, depending on the cost of the wooden slivers and the type of wood glue used.
• Wood putty: The cost of wood putty is relatively low and easily available at most home improvement stores.
• Epoxy filler: This method is more expensive than the others, as it requires the purchase of two-part epoxy filler.
• Floor filler sticks: The cost of floor filler sticks varies depending on the brand and the quantity, but they are generally less expensive than epoxy fillers.

Ease of Use

• Wooden slivers and wood glue: This method can be time-consuming and requires some skill and precision to use effectively.
• Wood putty: It is easy to apply and use.
• Epoxy filler: This method can be difficult to work with and may require professional installation.
• Floor filler sticks: This method is very easy and convenient to use.

Durability

• Wooden slivers and wood glue: This method is highly durable, as long as the wooden slivers are made of a durable wood species like larch.
• Wood putty: It is a less durable option and may need to be replaced over time.
• Epoxy filler: This method is highly durable, as epoxy is a strong adhesive that can withstand high levels of foot traffic and heavy use.
• Floor filler sticks: The durability of this method depends on the quality of the filler sticks.

Effectiveness

• Wooden slivers and wood glue: This method can be highly effective if done correctly, but it requires skill and precision to use.
• Wood putty: It can be effective in filling gaps, but it may not match the color of the surrounding wood.
• Epoxy filler: This method is highly effective, as it is strong and durable and can withstand heavy use.
• Floor filler sticks: The effectiveness of this method depends on the quality of the filler sticks.

Overall, the best method for filling gaps in hardwood floors depends on the individual needs and preferences of the homeowner. The wooden slivers and wood glue method is the most durable and effective, but it is also the most difficult to use.

The wood putty method is easy to use, but it is not as durable. The epoxy filler method is highly durable and effective, but it is also the most expensive and difficult to use. The floor filler sticks method is easy to use and relatively inexpensive, but it may not be as durable as the other methods.

Comparison Between Table

Method	Cost	Ease of Use	Durability	Effectiveness
Wooden slivers and wood glue	Inexpensive to moderate	Difficult	High	High
Wood putty	Inexpensive	Easy	Low to moderate	Moderate
Epoxy filler	Expensive	Difficult	High	High
Floor filler sticks	Inexpensive to moderate	Easy	Moderate	Moderate

Faqs

Conclusion

There are several methods to choose from when it comes to filling gaps in hardwood floors. Each method has its own set of pros and cons, including cost, ease of use, durability, and effectiveness.

The wooden slivers and wood glue method is the most durable and effective, but it is also the most difficult to use.

The wood putty method is easy to use, but it is not as durable. The epoxy filler method is highly durable and effective, but it is also the most expensive and difficult to use.

The floor filler sticks method is easy to use and relatively inexpensive, but it may not be as durable as the other methods.

Ultimately, the best method for filling gaps in hardwood floors depends on the individual needs and preferences of the homeowner.