What Causes Laminate Floor Buckling?

Laminate floor buckling occurs when the flooring panels are not securely attached to the subfloor. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including high humidity, inadequate installation, or an uneven subfloor. In this article, we’ll explore what causes laminate floor buckling, and how to avoid it.

What is Laminate Floor Buckling?

Laminate floor buckling is the lifting of laminate flooring panels from the subfloor. This can be caused by several factors, such as high humidity, inadequate installation, or an uneven subfloor. Laminate floor buckling is easily recognizable, as it causes a noticeable ripple in the floor.

High Humidity Causes Laminate Floor Buckling

High humidity is one of the main causes of laminate floor buckling. If the humidity in a room is too high, it causes the laminate planks to expand, leading to the buckling of the floor. To avoid this, it’s important to keep the humidity level in the room between 40-60%.

Inadequate Installation Causes Laminate Floor Buckling

Inadequate installation is another common cause of laminate floor buckling. If the planks are not securely fastened to the subfloor, they can easily become loose and buckle. To avoid this, it’s important to ensure that the planks are properly installed, using the right adhesive and making sure the planks are properly sealed.

Uneven Subfloor Causes Laminate Floor Buckling

An uneven subfloor can also cause laminate floor buckling. This can be caused by a number of factors, such as a poorly installed subfloor, or by the settling of the house over time. To avoid this, it’s important to make sure the subfloor is properly installed and level before installing the laminate planks.

Preventing Laminate Floor Buckling

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent laminate floor buckling. The first step is to ensure that the room has a humidity level between 40-60%. You should also make sure the planks are properly installed, using the right adhesive and making sure they are properly sealed. Finally, it’s important to make sure the subfloor is properly installed and level before installing the laminate planks.

Conclusion

Laminate floor buckling is a common problem and can be caused by a variety of factors, such as high humidity, inadequate installation, or an uneven subfloor. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent it, such as keeping the humidity level in the room between 40-60%, making sure the planks are properly installed, and ensuring the subfloor is level before installing the planks. By following these steps, you can help ensure your laminate flooring remains in good condition for years to come.