How To Fill Gaps In Wood Floor

Gaps in a wood floor are not only unsightly, but can allow for dust, air and even pests to get into the space below the floorboards. Filling these gaps is a relatively simple task that can be accomplished with a few basic tools and materials.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

You will need the following items to fill gaps in a wood floor:

Wood filler
Putty knife
Fine-grit sandpaper
Vacuum cleaner
Damp cloth

Step 2: Prepare the Gap

Before you can fill the gap, you need to clean it out. Remove any dust, dirt or debris from the gap using a vacuum cleaner or a damp cloth. Make sure the gap is completely clean before you proceed.

Step 3: Apply the Wood Filler

Once the gap is clean, you can apply the wood filler. Use a putty knife to apply a small amount of wood filler to the gap. Be sure to press the wood filler firmly into the gap, but do not overfill it. The wood filler should be slightly recessed below the level of the floor.

Step 4: Allow the Wood Filler to Dry

Allow the wood filler to dry completely before sanding it. The drying time will vary depending on the type of wood filler you are using.

Step 5: Sand the Wood Filler

Once the wood filler is dry, you can sand it until it is smooth and flush with the rest of the floor. Use a fine-grit sandpaper and sand gently in the direction of the wood grain.

Step 6: Clean Up

Once you have sanded the wood filler, vacuum the floor to remove any dust. You can also use a damp cloth to wipe down the floor and remove any remaining debris.

Tips

If the gap is very large, you may need to fill it with a piece of wood before applying the wood filler.
If you are filling a gap between two pieces of wood that are not flush with each other, you can use a shim to level them out before applying the wood filler.
If you are filling a gap in a finished floor, you will need to use a wood filler that is specifically designed for finished floors.