Laminate flooring is a popular choice for many homes due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. However, even the most robust flooring can encounter issues over time, with lifting being a common concern. When laminate planks begin to lift, it can be an eyesore and a tripping hazard. Fortunately, with the right approach, many lifting issues can be resolved without needing a complete reinstallation. As your trusted flooring experts, Beno's Flooring is here to guide you through the process.
Understanding why laminate flooring lifts
Before diving into solutions, it's crucial to understand the common culprits behind lifting laminate. Identifying the cause will help you choose the most effective repair method and prevent future occurrences.
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Moisture exposure: This is perhaps the most frequent cause. Laminate, while water-resistant to a degree, is not waterproof. Spills, high humidity, or leaks can cause the core of the planks to swell, leading to lifting and buckling.
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Improper installation: If the flooring wasn't installed correctly, issues can arise. This includes insufficient expansion gaps around the perimeter, which are vital for allowing the flooring to expand and contract with temperature and humidity changes. Without these gaps, the planks can push against walls or fixed objects, causing them to lift.
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Uneven subfloor: A subfloor that isn't level can lead to stress points on the laminate planks, causing them to lift or separate over time.
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Lack of acclimatization: Laminate flooring needs time to acclimate to the room's temperature and humidity before installation. If installed too soon, the planks may expand or contract significantly after installation, leading to lifting.
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Damaged locking mechanisms: The tongue-and-groove or click-lock systems that connect laminate planks can become damaged, leading to planks disengaging and lifting.
Assessing the extent of the damage
Before you begin repairs, take a moment to assess the scope of the lifting. Is it just one or two planks, or is a larger section affected? Is the lifting severe buckling, or a slight rise? This assessment will dictate the complexity of your repair.
Step-by-step guide to fixing lifting laminate flooring
The method you choose will depend on the cause and extent of the lifting. Here are several approaches, ranging from simple fixes to more involved repairs.
1. For minor lifting due to moisture (localized swelling)
If a small area has lifted due to a minor spill and the swelling isn't severe, you might be able to encourage the plank to settle back down.
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Dry the area thoroughly: Use fans or a dehumidifier to ensure the area is completely dry. This might take several days.
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Apply weight: Once dry, place heavy objects (like stacks of books or furniture) evenly across the lifted area. Leave them in place for a few days to a week. The pressure can sometimes flatten the plank back into place.
2. For planks that have buckled due to expansion
If your laminate flooring is lifting or buckling along the edges or in the middle, insufficient expansion gaps are likely the culprit.
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Identify tight spots: Look for areas where the laminate is touching walls, doorframes, or other fixed objects.
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Trim the planks: Carefully remove the baseboards or trim around the perimeter of the room. Use a utility knife or a specialized laminate cutter to trim a small amount (1/8 to 1/4 inch) from the edge of the laminate planks where they meet the wall. This will create the necessary expansion gap.
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Reinstall trim: Once the gap is created, replace the baseboards or trim. This should alleviate the pressure and allow the planks to settle.
3. For disengaged or damaged planks
If individual planks have come loose or the locking mechanism is damaged, you may need to remove and re-engage or replace them.
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Identify the affected plank(s): Pinpoint the specific planks that are lifting or have come apart.
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Remove the surrounding planks (if necessary): For planks in the middle of the room, you'll likely need to carefully lift the planks from the wall leading up to the damaged one. This usually involves removing baseboards and gently disengaging the planks one by one.
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Inspect the locking mechanism: Once the affected plank is accessible, examine its tongue and groove. If it's intact, you can try to re-engage it with the neighboring plank.
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Replace damaged planks: If the locking mechanism is broken, or the plank is severely warped or damaged, it's best to replace it. You'll need a new plank of the same type and color.
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Reinstall: Carefully re-engage the new or re-seated plank, ensuring the locking mechanisms are properly aligned. Then, reinstall the surrounding planks, working your way back to the wall.
4. Addressing an uneven subfloor
If the lifting is widespread and appears to be caused by an uneven subfloor, this is a more complex issue that may require professional intervention.
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Consult a professional: An uneven subfloor needs to be leveled before the laminate can be properly installed. This might involve applying a self-leveling compound or sanding down high spots. While some DIYers might tackle this, for best results and to ensure the longevity of your flooring, a professional assessment is highly recommended.
Preventing future lifting
Once you've fixed the issue, take steps to prevent it from happening again:
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Manage moisture: Clean up spills immediately. Use doormats at entry points and consider a dehumidifier in humid environments.
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Ensure proper expansion gaps: If you're installing new laminate, always leave adequate expansion gaps as per the manufacturer's instructions.
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Prepare the subfloor: Always ensure your subfloor is clean, dry, and level before any laminate installation.
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Acclimatize flooring: Allow new laminate flooring to acclimate to the room's temperature and humidity for at least 48-72 hours before installation.
When to call the flooring experts
While many minor lifting issues can be resolved with a DIY approach, there are times when professional help is invaluable. If the lifting is widespread, if you suspect a significant subfloor issue, or if you're uncomfortable with the repair process, don't hesitate to contact a professional flooring company.
For all your flooring needs, from professional installations to expert advice, turn to Beno's Flooring. We are dedicated to delivering professional and successful outcomes for both residential and commercial projects.
Contact Beno's Flooring today for reliable and expert service in Las Vegas, NV, and Lake Havasu City, AZ. Visit our website or call us to schedule a consultation.
