What You Need To Know About Laminate Flooring Buckles

Laminate flooring is a popular flooring option due to its affordability, durability, and aesthetic appeal. However, laminate flooring may be prone to buckling, which is a phenomenon that causes individual planks of laminate flooring to separate and buckle up. Buckling can be caused by a variety of factors and can lead to costly repairs if not addressed in a timely manner. In order to prevent or repair buckling, it is important to understand the causes, prevention, and repair of laminate flooring buckles.

What Causes Laminate Flooring Buckles?

There are several factors that can cause buckling in laminate flooring. One of the most common causes is moisture. When laminate flooring is exposed to excessive moisture, it can cause the planks to swell and separate. This can occur due to flooding, spills, or high humidity levels. Moisture can also come from the underside of the flooring, such as from a plumbing leak or high water table.

Another common cause of buckling is inadequate subflooring. Subflooring should be level, dry, and completely flat in order to provide a stable foundation for the laminate flooring. If the subfloor has inadequate support or is not level, it can cause the laminate planks to buckle.

Finally, improper installation of the laminate flooring can cause buckling. If the planks are not securely fastened to the subfloor, they can separate and buckle. Additionally, if the planks are not properly spaced, it can lead to buckling.

How to Prevent Laminate Flooring Buckles

In order to prevent buckles in laminate flooring, there are several steps that can be taken. It is important to ensure that the subfloor is level, dry, and flat before installation. Additionally, any potential sources of moisture should be addressed before installation.

It is also important to make sure that the planks are properly fastened to the subfloor and that the planks are spaced correctly. When installing laminate flooring, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Finally, it is important to keep the humidity in the room where the laminate flooring is installed at a manageable level. Use a dehumidifier, if necessary, to reduce the level of humidity in the room. Additionally, avoid spills and flooding and address any plumbing problems that could lead to moisture buildup.

How to Repair Laminate Flooring Buckles

If the laminate flooring has already buckled, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible. The first step is to inspect the flooring to determine the cause of the buckling. If the cause is moisture, it is important to address the source of the moisture and dry the area thoroughly.

If the buckles are caused by improper installation or inadequate subflooring, the planks may need to be removed and the subfloor inspected and repaired. Once the subfloor is level and dry, the planks can be reinstalled. It is important to make sure that the planks are properly fastened to the subfloor and spaced correctly.

In some cases, buckled laminate flooring may need to be replaced. If the buckles are severe and the planks are severely damaged, it is best to replace the planks rather than attempt to repair them.

Conclusion

Buckling in laminate flooring can be caused by a variety of factors, including moisture, inadequate subflooring, and improper installation. In order to prevent buckling, it is important to ensure that the subfloor is level, dry, and flat; that the planks are securely fastened to the subfloor; and that the humidity in the room is kept at manageable levels. If the flooring has already buckled, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible. In some cases, the planks may need to be removed and replaced.