Wooden flooring is a natural product and as such, it may contract to certain extent depending on the installation method, timber species or environment. During such contraction gaps may open between planks in time and correct this (when required), we offer a gap-filling service. There are several methods for filling gaps on wooden floors used by flooring companies.
Gap Filling with Resin & Saw Dust
The most common method used is mixing clear resin filler with sawdust. The dust is collected during the sanding process from medium to the fine grit of sanding. The method is very popular for gaps of up to 5-6 mm and largely used on parquet flooring and floorboards.
The main advantage of this method is that the filler has the same colour as the floor because of the sawdust was collected during sanding from the same source. Another positive feature is that it dries relatively quickly and provides a good basis for a smooth finish. This method is more efficient when it is applied to parquet flooring or tongue-and-groove planks. That is because the gap filler won't fall through and to reduce the possibility of that happening, we select products of a high quality.
Our gap filling service always comes with careful inspection and wood floor repairs - refitting of the floor if that is necessary to improve the stability of the floorboards or parquet blocks.
Wood Slivers
Slivers are strips of pine wood fitted and glued down into the gaps - another process applicable mainly for wider gaps and often recommend for pine floorboards. It has a natural effect, but if used on a large-scale may not be very presentable and for the eyes. However, wood slivers can improve the solidness of the boards and improve floor insulation, reduce draft from the voids below the floorboards.
Both methods above are applied before the floor sanding process is complete as the last sanding will smoothen the surface and prepare it for the oiling or varnishing.
Using Mastic
Gap filling with mastic such as the Bona Gap Master filler can be used for tiny gaps between the planks, minor repairs, cracks and filling around beadings and skirting boards. You can find this filler in various colours and it is the ideal application on already finished floors.
