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SAND MY FLOORSLTDFloor Sanding Specialists

4 min read · By Darren Palmer

Filler or Slivers? Gap Filling Explained

Honest advice on the two ways to deal with gaps between floorboards – and why we recommend slivers for pine.

Why gaps appear

Timber moves with the seasons, so gaps open and close between boards – especially in older pine floors. Gaps let draughts and dust up from the void, so filling them makes a room warmer and cleaner.

Resin filler

Resin filler is mixed with your floor's own sanding dust and worked into the gaps. It's quick and gives a close colour match, but it isn't guaranteed: because wood keeps moving, filler can occasionally work its way out over time. It's also a strong-smelling solvent product, although the smell dies down quickly once the floor is sanded.

Pine slivers

For pine floors we recommend slivers: thin strips of pine glued into the gaps. It's a longer process, but it leaves far smaller gaps to fill, gives a better finish and there is far less chance of filler dropping out.

What about oak?

Oak floors and similar hardwoods usually have very tight joints, so filler is very unlikely ever to come out. For most oak floors, resin filler is the right choice.

Got a question about your floor?

Call Darren on 07917 816506 or send a few photos – we're always happy to give honest advice.

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