How to troubleshoot margin and padding issues in Elementor

To fix margin or padding issues in Elementor, identify if the gap is external (margin) or internal (padding). Reset widget values to zero in the Advanced tab, set Column Gap to “No Gap” in the Layout settings, and use Responsive Mode to eliminate mobile-specific spacing conflicts or theme-based CSS overrides.

What is the difference between margin and padding?

Understanding the mechanics of CSS spacing is essential for fixing layout issues in Elementor:

• Margin (External): This is the space outside the element. It pushes neighboring widgets away.
• Padding (Internal): This is the space inside the element, specifically between the border and the content.

How do you troubleshoot common spacing problems in Elementor?

If you encounter unwanted “ghost space” or overlapping elements, follow these diagnostic steps to isolate the cause.

How do you reset widget spacing values?

1. Click the Handle (pencil icon) of the specific widget.
   
2. Click the Advanced tab in the Elementor panel.
   
3. Review the Margin and Padding input fields.
   
4. Delete any existing values and manually type “0” to clear manual overrides and return to default spacing.

How do you remove default column gaps?

Elementor often adds a 10px default gap between columns that can create unintended whitespace.

1. Click the Edit Section handle (six-dot icon) at the top of the section.
2. Navigate to the Layout tab.
3. Locate the Columns Gap dropdown menu.
4. Select No Gap to remove the default internal spacing between columns.
   

How do you fix responsive spacing conflicts on mobile?

1. Click the Tablet or Mobile icon In the Elementor top tool bar.
   
2. Adjust values specifically for the Mobile Icon displayed next to the Margin/Padding labels.
   

What causes ghost space from theme conflicts?

If the Elementor settings are set to zero but gaps remain, your WordPress theme may be applying its own CSS.

1. Preview the page in a live browser window.
2. Right-click the gap and select Inspect.
3. Hover over the HTML code to see color-coded spacing:
   • Orange: Represents Margin.
   • Green: Represents Padding.
4. Identify if the CSS classes originate from your theme rather than Elementor.

How do you resolve layout overflow issues?

Negative margins can cause horizontal scrolling on mobile devices.

• Avoid using negative margins on sections whenever possible.
• If you’re using the sections and columns layout, set Edit Section > Layout > Overflow to Hidden to prevent content from bleeding outside the viewport.