Laminate floors are well favored in the market with homeowners as they are attractive, and are hard-wearing. However, it can sometimes surprise you with an annoying problem: bubbling. This issue will turn your once beautiful smooth floors into an eyesore; you will be wondering what went wrong. I think it is time to find out what leads to this bubbling and how it can be corrected.
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What Causes Bubbling?
While bubbles are an apparent problem in laminated floors, they are a sign of deeper problems, generally associated with moisture or poor installation procedures. Laminate planks don’t look good when they are not well fitted because they twist and leave spaces where bubbles emerge. On the other extreme if the flooring is exposed to moisture in the form of liquid, humidity or poor finishing of the flooring, the laminate will expand and lift off the sub-floor. These problems cause not only bubbles but if neglected much more harm to your carpet hence it is advisable to deal with them as early as possible.
How Can You Stop Laminate Floors from Bubbling?
Bringing those bubbles under control is a little more straightforward. First of all, one has to find the source of the moisture. If you found leak or high humidity in your house, it is necessary to solve this problem first.
- Dry the Area: Start by removing any visible moisture. Using a dehumidifier can be a game changer in humid spaces.
- Seal the Edges: Check that the edges of your laminate are well-sealed. Applying silicone caulk or a similar product around the perimeter can help keep moisture at bay.
- Control the Temperature: Keep your home at a stable temperature. Big changes in heat can make materials expand and contract, which leads to bubbling.
- Use Rugs: In spill-prone areas, consider placing rugs or mats to soak up moisture before it reaches your laminate.
By following these tips, you can often stop further bubbling and keep your floors looking great.
Can You Remove Bubbles from Laminate?
Absolutely! You can usually remove bubbles from laminate flooring, but the method depends on how severe the bubbling is. For smaller bubbles, try these simple steps:
- Puncture and Flatten: Use a pin to gently puncture the bubble, allowing the air to escape. Then, press down to flatten it out.
- Apply Weight: Place a heavy object on the area for a day or two to help the laminate stick back to the underlayment.
- Repair Seal: After flattening, think about adding a sealant to keep moisture from sneaking back in.
If you’re dealing with more significant bubbling, especially if it hints at deeper issues, you might need to consult a professional or look into replacing some planks.
How Do You Fix a Bubbling Wood Floor?
Bubbling can also happen with wood floors, which can be just as frustrating. Start by figuring out what’s causing the problem, which is often moisture-related. Here’s a straightforward way to tackle it:
- Identify Moisture Sources: Just like with laminate, find any leaks or areas with excessive humidity.
- Dry and Stabilise: Use fans or a dehumidifier to thoroughly dry the area.
- Re-secure Boards: If possible, remove the affected boards and secure them again after making sure the subfloor is dry and stable.
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Replace if Necessary: In cases of serious damage, you may need to replace the affected boards.
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How Do You Fix a Bulge in Laminate Flooring?
Bulges in laminate flooring can be trickier than simple bubbles. Here’s how to handle it:
- Determine the Cause: Moisture is usually the main culprit, so check for any spills or leaks.
- Remove Baseboards: Take off the baseboards and transition strips to relieve any pressure and allow for proper expansion.
- Reinforce the Subfloor: Ensure the subfloor is level and dry. Any inconsistencies here can make bulging worse.
- Re-install Laminate: If the bulge doesn’t go away, consider removing the affected planks and reinstalling them, making sure to leave enough space for expansion at the edges.
Unfortunately, bubbling in laminate flooring is not a rare occurrence but it is not a big issue if you know the recommendations to take. Knowing the reasons for developing the problem in the first place and knowing how to solve it will help prevent the floors from deteriorating. Well, if you face this situation, do not think twice- Being pro-active can go a long way in Preserve the beauty and durability of your laminate flooring.
