Are you in the process of remodeling your home and noticed that your newly installed laminate flooring is buckling? If so, you are most likely wondering why it is happening and what you can do to fix it.
Laminate flooring is made of synthetic materials that are designed to be durable and easy to install. Unfortunately, improper installation can cause buckling, which can be an unsightly and expensive problem. In this article, we will discuss the most common causes of buckling and how you can fix it.
What Causes Laminate Flooring to Buckle?
Buckling occurs when the laminate planks warp due to moisture, temperature, or improper installation. Here are a few of the most common causes of laminate floor buckling:
Moisture
Moisture is one of the most common causes of buckling in laminate flooring. Moisture can seep into the laminate planks through cracks or seams in the flooring, causing the planks to swell and buckle. If your laminate flooring is installed in an area of your home that is prone to high levels of moisture, such as a bathroom or kitchen, it is especially important to make sure that the planks are tightly fitted together and sealed properly.
Temperature Changes
Another common cause of buckling is sudden changes in temperature. When temperatures in your home fluctuate, it can cause the laminate planks to expand and contract, leading to buckling. To prevent this from happening, it is important to maintain a consistent temperature in your home, especially in the areas where you have installed laminate flooring.
Improper Installation
If your laminate flooring is not properly installed, it can cause buckling. To ensure that your laminate planks are properly installed, make sure that they are properly fitted together and that there are no gaps between the planks. It is also important to make sure that the flooring is installed on a level, even surface to prevent buckling.
How to Fix Buckled Laminate Flooring
If your laminate flooring is buckling, there are a few things you can do to fix it. Here are some tips for fixing buckled laminate flooring:
Check for Moisture
If your laminate flooring is buckling, the first thing you should do is check for moisture. If the flooring is in an area that is prone to moisture, such as a bathroom or kitchen, you may need to use a dehumidifier to reduce the moisture in the air. You should also check for any leaks or cracks in the flooring that could be letting moisture in.
Check for Temperature Changes
If you have noticed that your laminate flooring is buckling due to sudden temperature changes, you should make sure that your home is maintained at a consistent temperature. This can be done by installing a thermostat and setting it to a constant temperature. You should also make sure that there are no drafts in the area where the flooring is installed.
Re-install the Laminate Planks
If your laminate flooring is buckling due to improper installation, you may need to re-install the planks. This should be done by a professional to ensure that the planks are properly fitted and that there are no gaps between them.
Conclusion
Buckling in laminate flooring can be an unsightly and expensive problem, but fortunately, it is often easy to fix. If your laminate flooring is buckling, the first step is to identify the cause. If the buckling is due to moisture, temperature changes, or improper installation, you can take steps to fix the issue.
If you are unsure of how to fix your buckling laminate flooring, you should contact a professional for help. A professional can inspect your flooring and provide advice on how to fix the issue. With proper care and maintenance, your laminate flooring should be able to last for many years.