Laminate wood flooring is a cost-effective, durable and visually appealing option for homeowners. But like any other flooring option, it has its challenges. Learning more about these common problems can help you keep your laminate flooring in shape for years to come! This guide will explain all these problems in detail and offer solutions that will help your flooring look and perform at its best.
Laminate flooring is made up of several layers including a wear layer, decorative layer, core layer and backing layer. While designed to withstand wear, it can still experience issues due to elements, poor installation or fatigue over time. If you spot these problems sooner, you can act on them and fix them before they become big repairs.
Warping and Buckling
Laminate flooring planks tend to warp or buckle, if it comes in contact with moisture or doesn’t have enough expansion gaps between adjoining planks. This can create the appearance of uneven flooring or can cause planks to lift from the floor surface.
Common Causes:
- Excess moisture or excess water spills
- Poor subfloor ventilation
- Also, if not installed properly with enough expansion gaps
How to Fix It:
- If installed correctly, there must be enough expansion gap (minimum 1/4 inch) around the outside so it can expand.
- Maintain humidity levels( Use a dehumidifier in places with high humidity to control moisture)
- Use absorbent cloths or towels to clean up spills.
- For severely damaged planks, you can remove the affected one and replace it with fresh planks.
- For small amounts of buckling, lay a heavy object on the spot that needs to be settled back for several days.
Gapping Between Planks
Weaknesses between laminate flooring plank may form as a result of rising and falling temperature conditions and moisture levels, causing an unsightly appearance that could make issues worse.
Common Causes:
- Growth and shrinkage in season
- Bad installs or low-grade locking systems
- Failure to acclimatize materials properly Pre-Install
How to Fix It:
- Provide stable humidity levels indoors (30-50%)
- If you see gaps run a laminate flooring gap filler through there or you can use a rubber mallet and gently tap them back together.
- For wide gaps, try re-installing the planks or replacing the board.
- Leave flooring in the house for at least 48 hours before installation to ensure it’s settled enough to prevent gaps later on.
Scratches and Scuffs Marks
Laminate flooring is prone to scratches and scuff marks.
Common Causes:
- Moving furniture without putting pads on the floor
- Pet claws and high heels
- Dirt and debris agitate providing a sandpaper type experience
- Rough cleaning tools
How to Fix It:
- Place furniture pads on chairs and tables.
- Keep pet nails trimmed so deeper scratches can’t occur.
- Put down doormats at entrances to reduce dirt and debris.
- Light scratches can be treated with a laminate floor repair kit or a wax pencil.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners or strident scrubbers.
Peeling and Delamination
When the top magic protective layer starts to peel away, it creates a distinct look of a worn floor that makes it not just the peeling or delamination.
Common Causes:
- Oversaturation of water
- Low-quality laminate flooring material
- Harsh cleaning chemicals
How to Fix It:
- Use a gentle laminate flooring-safe cleaner and avoid too much water.
- For small areas of peeling, place wood glue and press the layer firmly down.
- When big sections are peeling, replacing those planks is your best bet.
- Select good laminate flooring with a durable wear layer to avoid delamination
Noise and Creaking Sounds
Creaking, clicking or hollow sounds while walking on laminate flooring can not only be bothersome but could also be signs of problematic installation.
Common Causes:
- Uneven subfloor
- Bad underlayment installation
- Easy-to-loosen planks because of wrong locking device
How to Fix It:
- Make sure the subfloor is level before installation
- Use a quality underlayment to sound cushion and damp.
- If the planks are loose, re-engage the locking mechanism or use a small amount of wood glue where needed to secure them.
- However, if that doesn’t fix the problem, replacing the floor with something better suited, with a better underlayment, may be in order.
Fading and Discoloration
Over time and by being exposed to sunlight and using inappropriate cleaning products, laminate flooring can lose their sheen and fade out.
Common Causes:
- UV rays from sunlight
- Heavy use of chemical cleaning agents
- Poor laminate quality
How to Fix It:
- Cover your windows with curtains or blinds to limit direct sunlight.
- Select laminate flooring with UV-resistant coatings.
- You should use mild cleaners recommended by the manufacturer to avoid discoloring the surface.
- Area rugs will also help protect the area floor
Water Damage and Swelling
Swollen, bubbling or lifted laminate flooring can be quite a problem and is often caused by excess water.
Common Causes:
- Extended exposure to water from spills or leaks
- Installation of bathrooms or basements where moisture is high
- Cleaning improperly/ using excess water
How to Fix It:
- Clean up spills immediately or absorbent material will soak them up.
- If you notice swelling, you can always replace some of the boards to repair the look of the floor.
- Use a vapor barrier under laminate floors in wet areas.
Conclusion
Laminate wood flooring is a great choice for homes, offering a blend of durability and style. However, being aware of common issues and knowing how to address them can help you keep your floors looking pristine for years. By taking preventive measures such as using proper underlayment, maintaining humidity levels and handling spills promptly, you can ensure your laminate flooring remains in top-notch condition.
Check out Surya Click if you need to find high-quality and durable laminate flooring. Crafted by excellent tech support who give you the one-stop experience for all your home flooring needs.