Why do you use spacers when installing vinyl plank flooring?

Author: Libbie Jacobs  |  Last update: Saturday, August 2, 2025

These spacers maintain a uniform expansion gap space that later will be hidden underneath the quarter-round molding when the laminate flooring planks are installed. Spacers actually are plastic wedges designed specifically for laminate-flooring installation and often come in bags of 30 or more.

Do you need spacers for vinyl planks?

Recommendations vary by product, but an expansion gap of about 1⁄4'' is necessary for installing vinyl plank flooring. These spacers are great because they won't buckle or break.

What happens if you don t use spacers when installing laminate flooring?

Many problems may occur if spacers are not used when installing laminate flooring. For example, the flooring could first compress, buckle, or warp, giving it an uneven or distorted appearance. The walls or baseboards may be harmed if the flooring pushes up against them as it expands.

Why do you leave a gap when laying vinyl plank flooring?

This gap allows the flooring to adjust without buckling or warping, ensuring its long-term durability. By providing this space around the edges, you allow the flooring to move freely, minimizing the risk of damage and preserving the overall quality and appearance of the installation.

What happens if you don't leave an expansion gap?

If you have bigger fluctuations in your home between summer and winter, you may wish to leave a bigger gap. If you don't leave an expansion gap your boards won't have anywhere to move during these more humid times. Ultimately, without an expansion gap you run this risk of boards popping and your wood floor lifting.

Why Vinyl Planks Are Out And Laminate is Back

Do vinyl planks need an expansion gap?

Typical vinyl plank flooring guidelines will recommend leaving a ¼-inch space along the perimeter of the room in which the flooring is to be installed, which we call an “expansion gap.” This gap leaves a healthy amount of space for the vinyl to expand without buckling.

What happens if you don't have gap coverage?

Your collision coverage would pay your lender up to the totaled car's depreciated value — say it's worth $19,000. If you don't have gap insurance, you would have to pay $1,000 out of your own pocket to settle your auto loan on the totaled car.

How much does LVP actually expand?

Both luxury vinyl tile and vinyl plank flooring expand and contract when exposed to changes in weather, including temperatures. The expansion and contraction are only fractions of an inch, but this can make a difference.

What happens if you don't stagger vinyl plank flooring?

Since vinyl plank flooring comes in even sizes, you might be tempted to install them in a straight pattern. However, straight floor panels are more likely to warp, shift and slide out of place. Staggered floors create an unevenly spaced pattern with 6 inches of space between the end joints on adjacent rows.

What is the purpose of floor spacers?

These spacers maintain a uniform expansion gap space that later will be hidden underneath the quarter-round molding when the laminate flooring planks are installed. Spacers actually are plastic wedges designed specifically for laminate-flooring installation and often come in bags of 30 or more.

What can I use instead of a flooring spacer?

Insert spacers or wedges, which you can get from any DIY market, between the wall and the flooring. A cheaper alternative is to use common household items such as clothespins, corks, wooden blocks or the like.

What happens if you don't let vinyl floor acclimate?

If the vinyl expands, the planks will push together, get stuck, or buckle, becoming uneven and making the floors uncomfortable to walk on. Plus, you could also void your warranty if you install before the acclimation process is complete.

How soon can you walk on vinyl plank flooring after installation?

Tiles or planks that are glued down, however, need time to set. This process takes at least 48 hours. Like luxury vinyl, carpet and laminate that is not glued to the subfloor can be walked on immediately. Brands that must be glued down are not ready for furniture for at least 24 hours.

When to remove flooring spacers?

These spacers/shims will be removed after you're finished installing your new laminate floor. For most laminate floors (check with your specific manufacturer), an expansion joint is required for larger rooms. Usually the limit for running continuous laminate is about 40'.

What is the best stagger pattern for vinyl plank flooring?

Stagger the seams at least 6-8 inches from the first row's end joints to avoid creating H-joints or step patterns, which can weaken the floor's structure.

Is LVP OK for high end homes?

For some homeowners, the choice between luxury vinyl and genuine hardwood comes down to a variety of factors including budget, lifestyle, and personal taste. High-end homes may still opt for the timeless appeal of real hardwood in main living areas, while using LVP or LVT in spaces like kitchens and bathrooms.

How much labor does it take to install LVP flooring?

The Average Cost

Simple installation: If your floor is level and the room is a basic shape, count on about $1.50 to $3 per square foot. Subfloor issues: Gotta remove old flooring or fix up the subfloor? That could add an extra $1 to $3 per square foot.

What happens if you don't leave an expansion gap for vinyl flooring?

The Consequences of Omitting an Expansion Gap

This often manifests as bulging or lifting, particularly at the centre of the room. This phenomenon, known as a “pinch point,” occurs when expanding flooring comes into contact with a wall or door frame, creating upward pressure on the boards.

Do you need spacers when installing vinyl plank flooring?

An expansion gap of about 1/4″ works great for installing vinyl plank flooring. We got these spacers to place between the edge of the wall and the flooring- they have both a 1/4″ and 1/2″ side to choose from!

What is an acceptable gap in vinyl plank flooring?

The pass level for ASTM F 2199 is such that shrinkage of up to 0.024” / linear foot is considered a “pass”. This equates to a maximum allowable gap of 0.072” for a typical three foot plank, which is more than double the thickness of a credit card.

Why put padding under vinyl plank flooring?

When you have a bump or dip in your subfloor, the uneven surface can cause vinyl planks click-lock-systems to become uneven. This will cause creaking or “popping” every time you walk over the floor. An underlayment can help fill in subfloor imperfections and leave your flooring a smooth surface to lay on.

Is gap coverage worth it?

Yes, it's worth it for many people since it offers peace of mind and protects against major financial loss. This is especially helpful soon after buying your vehicle because, at that time, you might owe thousands more than its value if it gets totaled.

What to do when your car dies and you still owe money on it?

If you still have a car loan, and your car's value is higher than your loan balance, you can use the insurance payout to pay off your loan and have some money left to buy a new car. If you owe more on your loan than your car's value, you will have to pay the difference yourself.

Can I sue gap insurance?

Some reasons for GAP nonpayment are legal, and others are illegal and designed for the GAP Insurance company to avoid paying on legitimate claims. The short answer is yes, you can sue GAP Insurance and fight back against an illegal denial or lack of full payment.

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