How to fix gaps at edges of floorboards?

[Lou_L]

I have moved into a new house and peeled back the carpet, looking to refinish the floorboards. There is a noticeable gap a the edges where I can see through to under the house (not picked up in the photo). There is no access under the house.

Whilst I know that boards need space to expand and contract, this is excessive and I don't want rodents getting in. How should I approach fixing this gap?

(note I will be getting someone in to finish the floors so if it's something they can do, please still advise on what would be involved so I know roughly how much to budget for)

Many thanks!

[JacobZ]

Hi @Lou_L,

Thank you for your question about covering gaps around the edge of your floorboards.

The simplest way to deal with these gaps and still allow for slight expansion and contraction is to add a timber trim along the bottom of the skirting board that bridges the gap.

Quad is a profile of timber that is commonly used for this type of job.

It can be attached to the skirting board using brad nails, then prepped and painted to blend in with the skirting board.

Let me know what you think and if you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob