Laminate flooring is one of the most popular flooring choices in UK homes today and it’s clear to see why. The durability, low maintenance, stunning appearance, and cost effectiveness of this type of flooring makes it an easy go-to for many homeowners.
Laminate flooring is also known for being easy to install yourself. Unfortunately though, sometimes issues can occur as a result of improper installation, such as the flooring lifting at the edges or in the middle. However, this problem can also arise due to other factors.
At Frank’s, we know all there is to know about flooring. Therefore, we know the different issues that can cause laminate floors to lift. But don’t worry, we also have some tips on how to prevent it from lifting in the first place!
What causes laminate flooring to lift?
When laminate lifts, this means that the boards rise from the subfloor and push against each other in peaks. Laminate flooring should not live in any way, whether it is at the edges or in the middle of the room.
This problem should not be easily dismissed because this normally acts as a warning sign that something is wrong underneath the flooring surface. Therefore, it will need to be sorted to ensure your flooring remains safe and table.
Improper installation
For laminate to stay put, the boards need time to swell and contract as they get used to the temperature and moisture levels of the room they are being installed in. If you try to install the boards too early, they will lift as they move, which can be hard to resolve.
Poor underlay positioning is another problem that can cause laminate flooring to lift. Using incorrect underlay or overlapping can prevent laminate boards from lying flat. Once this issue occurs, the only solution is to bring the flooring and relay the underlay correctly.
At Frank’s we offer an expert fitting service to avoid DIY mistakes like this from happening. Having a professional fit laminate flooring is the safest option!
Uneven subfloors
The idea behind laminate flooring is for it to sit or float above your subfloor because the pieces interlock with a ‘click and lock’ method, using no glue or nails.
When problems occur with your subfloor, such as unevenness and other imperfections, this will affect the stability of the laminate’s locking mechanism,
If your flooring is starting to feel spongy or bouncy, this could be another sign that the subfloor is uneven. We always recommend having an expert level out an uneven subfloor rather than trying to do it yourself. Getting it wrong can be costly!
Too much moisture
It is a known fact that wood flooring does not react well to excess moisture, whether this is large liquid spills, overflowing sinks, or burst pipes.
When it comes to maintaining your laminate floor, we do not recommend using a soaking wet mop or a steam mop. This can damage and warp the wooden core of the laminate boards and lead to swelling which causes the flooring to lift and bubble. Only clean laminate flooring using damp mops or dry mops and cloths.
Unfortunately, if your laminate flooring has taken in too much moisture it’s likely that the affected boards will need to be replaced. But don’t worry, at Frank’s we have a wide range of laminate flooring available in a choice of styles, colours and finishes.
Not enough expansion gaps
To install laminate properly, you must ensure that an expansion gap is left around the perimeter of the room. Doing this gives the boards room to swell and contract as the temperature in the room changes.
Without an expansion gap, the boards won’t be able to expand beyond the space that is available. As a result, this may lead to the flooring lifting in the middle or at the edges.
So, how can you prevent laminate flooring from lifting?
Taking the correct steps to care for your laminate floor from the moment you bring it home is crucial to make sure it stays in great condition.
Here are our top tips at Frank’s to prevent laminate flooring from lifting.
- Only buy great quality laminate floorboards from Frank’s and have them fitted by one of our professionals.
- Ensure that you check the subfloor for unevenness or any issues with moisture before installing laminate flooring.
- Never skimp on underlay. Buying good quality underlay will protect your laminate flooring from small issues on the subfloor.
- Give the flooring time to acclimatise to the conditions in your room for a couple of days before you begin to lay them.
- Avoid accidents and water spills as much as you can. If spills do occur, wipe them up as soon as they occur but never use a steam mop or soaking wet mop on your laminate flooring.
Pop down to your local Frank’s and we’ll be happy to help you find the perfect laminate flooring for your home. We also offer a complimentary measuring and planning service and have the best flooring professionals around to install it for you.
