When installing the butt ends of each panel together there is a small gap between both edges of the panels of approx 1/16" of an inch. Is this normal?

Hello! No, the long and short sides of the plank should be tightly closed. Try the Alternate Tap Method installation as follows: align the tongues into the grooves of the long and short sides of the planks. Install the long side first by placing a tapping block no closer than 8" from either end and tap lightly along the long side until the joint is closed tightly. Then tap the end using the tapping block into a locked position. Thank you for your interest in QuickStep Studio flooring. - Shanna