Flooring types that do not require an expansion gap are strictly those that are fully adhered (glued) to the subfloor. The most common choices are glue-down luxury vinyl plank (LVP), sheet vinyl, ceramic/porcelain tile, and glue-down engineered hardwood.
With Floorify gluedown floors, an expansion gap is not required. These floors are glued directly to the subfloor and are therefore extremely dimensionally stable. They barely expand or shrink, even with temperature changes or when continuing through multiple rooms.
Yes, Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) absolutely needs an expansion gap. If installed as a "floating floor", temperature fluctuations cause it to expand and contract. Without this gap, the planks will bunch together, resulting in buckling or lifting.
Expansion gaps—typically about ¼ inch—around walls, doorways, and other fixed objects provide the space needed for this movement. Without them, the flooring has nowhere to go when it expands, leading to visible damage and structural stress.
Creating a gap around the edges of the room is crucial when you're installing laminate and engineered wood flooring. This gap, known as the expansion gap, should run all the way around the room wherever the flooring meets things like walls, stairs, doorways, radiator pipes, or fireplaces.
To avoid any issues with spacing when laying a laminate floor we recommend using wood or laminate flooring spacers. Spacers ensure the correct gap between the flooring planks and adjacent obstacles, such as walls or fixtures. The included as part of our in our laminate floor installation kit.
The "Rule of 3" in flooring is a design principle that recommends using no more than three distinct flooring materials or color variations throughout your entire home. Limiting your design to three elements creates visual cohesion, prevents a chopped-up layout, and ensures smooth, intentional transitions from room to room.
Yes, hardwood flooring absolutely needs an expansion gap. Because wood is a natural material, it expands and contracts as indoor temperature and humidity levels change. Without an expansion gap, the floor can buckle, peak, or crack against the wall.
Yes, luxury vinyl plank (LVP) expands and contracts. Because it is made primarily of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), it is susceptible to temperature fluctuations.
Some Common Mistakes When Laying Laminate Flooring
While vinyl plank flooring (LVP) is water-resistant and affordable, it struggles with subfloor sensitivity, denting under heavy furniture, and potential VOC emissions. It also lacks the natural warmth and home resale value of real hardwood.
Yes, you can install Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) directly over a subfloor, but the subfloor must be flawlessly clean, flat, dry, and structurally sound. Because LVP is flexible, any bumps or dips will telegraph through and ruin the finished floor.
What are the most popular vinyl plank flooring colors in 2026? Light oak, greige, and soft brown tones continue to be favorites. These colors feel fresh and versatile, working well with neutral palettes, natural light, and the relaxed, airy look many homeowners are going for right now.
Yes, Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) does require an expansion gap. Because vinyl is susceptible to temperature changes, it naturally expands and contracts. Leaving an expansion gap around the perimeter of the room and all fixed objects (like pipes and cabinets) prevents the floor from buckling, peaking, or separating at the joints.
Wood naturally expands and contracts in response to changes in temperature and humidity, and without this allowance, the flooring can become unstable over time. Leaving a proper expansion gap is essential to maintain both the performance and longevity of engineered wood flooring.
To keep laminate flooring from separating, ensure a consistent indoor humidity between 40% and 60% to prevent expansion and contraction. Leave a 10mm expansion gap around the room's perimeter, and use specific flooring gap adhesive or wood glue to lock separated joints in place.
Luxury Vinyl Flooring
Luxury vinyl is excellent for cold areas because it does not expand or contract in extreme temperature changes. Compared to tile or hardwood, it warms up quickly, providing a more comfortable place for your cold feet to walk.
Preparation Mistakes That Lead to LVP Installation Failure
Any uneven spots, old adhesive, or leftover debris from an existing floor can transfer through luxury vinyl or stress the locking system. The result is a floor that moves, clicks, or separates. Moisture conditions matter as well.
Yes, you can place a refrigerator on top of vinyl plank flooring. Because the floor is highly durable and waterproof, it easily handles the weight and potential spills of a fridge. However, as with any heavy object on a floating floor, taking a few precautions prevents damaging the planks.
Yes, laminate flooring absolutely needs an expansion gap. Because it is a "floating floor" (meaning it is not glued or nailed to the subfloor), it naturally expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity. Failing to leave a gap can cause the floor to buckle, warp, or peak.
Timeless wood colors are natural, organic hues that bridge the gap between warm and cool without relying on passing fads. The most classic choices are pale, natural wood and mid-tone browns. These choices highlight natural grain patterns and adapt easily to changing furniture and decor styles.
Oak flooring, or indeed wooden flooring in general, should always be fitted with an expansion gap around the perimeter of the room. Whether laying solid or engineered oak flooring, typically a 15mm gap is recommended to allow for any movement.
The wrong flooring choice can make a room look off and cause maintenance and cleaning issues. Designers say one of the worst flooring options is luxury vinyl planking for its upkeep and poor quality. Other flooring choices to avoid include mosaic tile, dark wood floors, and shiny wood flooring.
LVT allows for creative custom patterns—perfect for adding unique designs to your floors. Meanwhile, LVP offers a seamless, continuous flow, which can make rooms look larger and feel more cohesive, which is ideal for open spaces.
Prime grade or AB-grade wood flooring is the highest quality of hardwood flooring that you can find. The wood in this grade has been carefully selected, and it features a minimal amount of natural defects like knots, sapwood, and grain irregularities.