GAP FILLING

Creating a cleaner finish while respecting how wood naturally moves.

Small gaps between wooden floorboards are completely normal.

As timber expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity, minor movement is part of the natural behaviour of a real wood floor. While some gaps can be improved during restoration, others are best left untouched to allow the floor to continue performing as intended.

At Touché Flooring, we assess every floor individually to determine whether gap filling is appropriate and which method will provide the best long-term result.

Preserving the character of older floors

Many period properties were built with wooden floors that naturally contain small gaps.

These floors were designed to breathe, and a degree of movement is entirely expected. Completely eliminating every gap can sometimes detract from the authentic character of the floor and may even create future maintenance issues.

Our aim is never to make an old floor look artificially new. Instead, we restore it with respect for its age, craftsmanship and original construction.

Sliver filling for larger gaps

Where wider gaps are suitable for repair, timber slivers can provide a more durable and sympathetic solution.

Thin strips of matching wood are carefully cut and fitted into the gaps before being trimmed, sanded and finished alongside the existing floor.

Because the repair uses real timber rather than filler alone, it can produce a more natural appearance while maintaining the character of the floor.

Not every floor is suitable for sliver filling, so we'll always advise whether it's the right option for your property.

Resin Gap Filling

For small gaps and fine imperfections, we often use a specialist resin mixed with fine sanding dust collected from your own floor. This creates a colour-matched filler that blends naturally with the surrounding timber while producing a smooth, seamless appearance once the floor has been sanded and finished.

This technique is ideal for:
- Hairline gaps
- Small surface imperfections
- Nail holes
- Minor defects
- Fine cracks between stable boards

Mastic Filler

Mastic filler is a flexible solution for filling gaps around wooden floors, particularly along skirting boards, door frames, thresholds and perimeter edges. Unlike rigid fillers, mastic allows for the natural expansion and contraction of timber as temperature and humidity change.

At Touché Flooring, we assess each floor individually to determine whether mastic is the right solution, helping to create a neat, durable finish that complements your restored wooden flooring.

A balanced approach

Rather than applying the same process to every project, we consider:

The age of the property

The type of timber

The width of the gaps

Seasonal movement

Underfloor ventilation

Previous repairs

The final finish being applied

This allows us to recommend a gap filling solution that not only looks excellent on the day it's completed but also continues to perform well over time.

The finishing touch

Gap filling is only one part of the restoration process.

Once complete, the floor is professionally sanded before receiving its chosen protective finish, creating a smooth, consistent appearance that enhances the natural beauty of the timber while helping to protect it for years to come.

When carried out correctly, gap filling can subtly improve the appearance of a floor without compromising its natural movement or character.

Expert advice for your floor

Every wooden floor is different, which is why we don't believe in one-size-fits-all solutions.

If you're unsure whether the gaps in your floor should be filled, we'd be happy to assess its condition and explain the most suitable options. Our advice is always based on what's best for your floor, ensuring a restoration that's both beautiful and built to last.