How to Fill Gaps Between Floor and Wall

How to Fill Gaps Between Floor and Wall.

One of the common problems during renovation is filling gaps. This issue is especially relevant in private homes, as improperly sealed gaps—such as those between the floor and wall—can allow moisture and cold air to seep in from the basement.

You Will Need

- Construction foam and a gun;
- Wood, polystyrene, plastic, or brick pieces;
- A spray bottle with water;
- Caulk;
- Moss, linen, or jute felt;
- Knife;
- Hammer;
- Spackle;
- Molding or decorative trim;
- Fasteners or adhesive.

Instructions

1. If the gap between the floor and wall is too wide (from 1 to 8 cm) and cold or moisture is seeping through, seal it with construction foam or caulk before decorative finishing. For wider gaps, fill them with inexpensive materials first to reduce the amount of foam used, such as wood, polystyrene, plastic, or brick.

2. Note that foam application should be done when the temperature is above +5ºC. Wear gloves before working with construction foam, as it’s nearly impossible to wash off from hands. Shake the foam can well for at least one minute.

3. Wet all surfaces using a spray bottle or a water sprayer made from a plastic bottle (pierce several holes in the cap with a nail).

4. Remove the cap, attach the tube, turn the foam can upside down, and press the trigger. Fill the gap up to one-third of its depth since foam expands 2–3 times its original volume. After the gap is sealed, mist it with water. If any gaps remain after half an hour, repeat the process.

5. After 8–10 hours, the foam will dry; remove excess with a knife.

6. If you decide to fill the gap between the wall and floor using caulk, use moss, linen, or jute felt. Note that the felt should be soaked in formalin to prevent moth infestation and avoid crumbling in your hands. You’ll also need a caulk tool (made of wood or metal).

7. Roll the material into a sausage shape, place it in the gap, and gently tap it in with the caulk tool so that it fits tightly. For better results, use a hammer.

8. For narrow gaps (less than 1 cm), spackle can be used. Apply it with a spatula and smooth it carefully to ensure airtightness.

9. Once the gap is filled, proceed with decorative finishing. Depending on your room’s interior design, choose appropriate trim or wooden/plastic molding. If the appearance of corners doesn’t concern you much, simply screw in the trim. Otherwise, purchase special two-part profiles—attach the bottom part to the floor and insert the top part into the grooves until it clicks. Plastic moldings can be simply glued down.