Home Repair: How to Seal Laminate Flooring Expansion Gaps
Updated: Oct. 21, 2019Block potential moisture problems
Laminate flooring can be used for wet areas like bathroom floors, but only if it's AC3 rated, with sealed expansion gaps at walls and around fixtures. Here's how to do it.
Expansion gap details
How to Seal Laminate Flooring
Anytime you install laminate flooring in a bath, laundry room or kitchen, you should use AC3-rated flooring, leave 1/4-in. expansion gaps at the walls and fixtures, and then fill the gaps at flooring ends with 100 percent silicone caulk. It stays flexible, allowing the floor to expand, and in the event of a spill, prevents water from soaking into the laminate core. Filling the gaps can use up a lot of caulk, so buy more than you think you’ll need.
Required Tools for this Project
Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.
- Caulk gun
- Rags
Required Materials for this Project
Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here’s a list.
- Silicone caulk
Originally Published: June 20, 2017
