Floor Gaps
Have you spotted unsettling gaps snaking between your floors and walls and found yourself puzzled about their origins and solutions? These gaps aren’t just eyesores — they’re often red flags signaling deeper foundation troubles beneath your home’s surface.
In this article, we delve into the root causes of these gaps and explain why timely action is of the essence. Lean on the expertise of Tar Heel Basement Systems, North Carolina’s go-to foundation repair specialists, for effective strategies that will close these gaps and reinforce the core of your home.
What Are Floor Gaps?

Floor gaps are visible spaces or openings between the floors and walls of your home. These gaps can vary in size and can be found in different areas of the house. While some gaps may be minor and barely noticeable, others can be more significant, causing concerns about the structural integrity of your home.
Warning Signs of Foundation Issues:
Several warning signs can accompany the presence of floor gaps and signify underlying foundation issues. These include:
- Drywall cracks: Cracks in the walls or ceilings, especially near the floor, can indicate foundation settlement and floor gaps.
- Sticking doors and windows: If your doors and windows are becoming increasingly difficult to open or close, it may be due to the shifting of the foundation, leading to floor gaps.
- Uneven floors: Floors that are uneven or sloping can indicate foundation settlement and the presence of floor gaps.
- Tilting chimney: A chimney that is leaning or tilting can be a result of foundation movement, causing floor gaps and other structural issues.
What Causes Floor and Wall Gaps?
- Foundation Settlement: One of the primary causes of floor gaps is foundation settlement. Over time, the soil beneath your home can shift and settle, causing the foundation to sink or shift. This movement can lead to gaps between the floors and walls.
- Damaged Floor Joists: Floor gaps can also be caused by damaged or weakened floor joists. These structural elements provide support to your floors and can deteriorate over time due to moisture, pests, or other factors. As the floor joists weaken, gaps may appear.
- Expansive Soils: In areas with expansive soils, the soil can expand and contract with changes in moisture levels. This constant movement can exert pressure on the foundation, leading to floor gaps.
Can You Fix Floor Gaps?
Yes, floor gaps can be fixed. There are a few methods to address this issue depending on the severity of the gaps and the type of flooring material. In many cases, the underlying foundation issues need to be addressed before we recommend addressing any cosmetic issues. Once your floors are brought back to level, we recommend hiring a professional to help you address any remaining gaps.
In some cases, it’s as simple as applying a gap filler and painting it to match your baseboards. In severe situations, you may need to replace flooring or warped boards.
How to Fix Floor Gaps
Tar Heel Basement Systems offers professional foundation repair solutions to fix floor gaps and stabilize your home. Some common methods include:
- Foundation Piers: Installing steel piers beneath the foundation can lift and stabilize it, closing the gaps and preventing further settlement. Our team offers three types of foundation piers, including Helical Piers, Push Piers, and Slab Piers, to conform to your home’s needs.
- Crawl Space Supports: Strengthening the crawl space with supports and encapsulation can provide additional stability to the foundation, reducing floor gaps.
Why Address Floor and Wall Gaps Now?

Prevent Further Damage
Addressing floor gaps promptly can prevent further damage to your home’s foundation and structure. Ignoring these gaps can lead to more significant issues and costly repairs in the future.
Avoid More Expensive Repairs
By fixing floor gaps early on, you can avoid more expensive repairs down the line. Prompt action can save you money and prevent the need for extensive foundation repair work.
Avoid Other Issues
Floor gaps can contribute to other problems like moisture intrusion, pest infestations, and energy inefficiency. Addressing these gaps can help mitigate these issues and improve the overall comfort of your home.
Improve Comfort
Closing floor gaps can eliminate drafts and cold spots, improving your home’s overall comfort and livability.
Protect Property Value
A structurally sound home with no visible floor gaps is more attractive to potential buyers. By addressing floor gaps, you can protect the value of your property and ensure a smooth selling process if you decide to move in the future.
Work with Tar Heel Basement Systems for Floor Gap Repair

Tar Heel Basement Systems is a trusted foundation repair company in North Carolina. With years of experience and a team of skilled professionals, we offer reliable solutions to fix floor gaps and ensure the stability of your home. Contact Tar Heel Basement Systems today for a free inspection and personalized foundation repair plan.
FAQs
Floor gaps can be a serious problem depending on the size and cause of the gap. Small gaps may not pose significant issues, but larger gaps can indicate underlying foundation problems that may require attention. It is important to assess the severity of the gap and consult with a professional to determine the appropriate course of action.
In some cases, floor gaps can be fixed without repairing the foundation. This depends on the cause of the gaps and the extent of the damage. Simple solutions like filling filler materials or adjusting the flooring may be sufficient for minor gaps caused by natural settling or temperature changes. However, if the gaps are due to structural issues or foundation problems, repairing the foundation will be necessary to ensure a long-term fix.
The time required to fix floor gaps can vary depending on the cause and severity of the gaps, as well as the chosen repair method. Minor gaps can often be fixed within a few hours or a day, while more extensive repairs may take several days or even weeks. It is best to consult with a professional who can assess the situation and provide a more accurate estimate of the repair timeline.
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