Laminate Floor Bubbling: Causes, Prevention, and Solutions

Laminate flooring is a popular choice for Covington homeowners due to its affordability, durability, and stylish designs that mimic natural wood or stone. However, in Louisiana’s humid climate, laminate flooring is at risk for moisture-related issues, including bubbling. If you’ve noticed your laminate floors swelling or lifting, addressing the issue quickly can help prevent further damage.

Understanding Laminate Floor Bubbling

Laminate floor bubbling occurs when sections of the flooring rise, creating an uneven surface. Not only does this affect the look of your floor, but it also signals underlying issues that need immediate attention. Bubbling can happen for several reasons, but in Covington’s climate, moisture is often the biggest culprit. Other causes include poor installation, subfloor issues, and general wear and tear over time.

Common Causes of Laminate Floor Bubbling

1. Moisture and Water Damage

Humidity and moisture are major concerns for homeowners in Covington. With our warm, humid weather, excess moisture can easily seep into laminate flooring, causing it to expand and bubble. Common sources of moisture include:

• High indoor humidity levels
• Plumbing leaks or appliance malfunctions
• Spills that aren’t cleaned up promptly
• Flooding or storm-related water damage

Since laminate flooring has a fiberboard core, it is highly susceptible to water damage. If installed in moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, or basements, the risk of bubbling increases significantly.

2. Improper Installation

Installing laminate flooring correctly is crucial to its longevity. If it’s placed too tightly against walls without proper expansion gaps, the flooring may buckle and bubble when exposed to temperature changes.

Additionally, using the wrong underlayment or failing to let the laminate acclimate to the room before installation can lead to problems down the line.

3. Subfloor Issues

A faulty subfloor can also cause bubbling. If the subfloor isn’t level or has moisture problems, it can push against the laminate, leading to raised areas. Cracks, gaps, and incompatible subfloor materials can all contribute to this issue.

4. Temperature Fluctuations

Covington homeowners experience both hot, humid summers and cooler winters, which can impact laminate flooring. If expansion gaps aren’t included during installation, extreme temperature changes can cause the flooring to expand and buckle. Keeping your home’s indoor climate stable can help mitigate this issue.

5. Heavy Furniture and Impact Damage

Placing heavy furniture directly on laminate flooring without protective padding can lead to bubbling. Additionally, dropping heavy objects on the floor may cause impact damage, creating raised spots over time.

Preventing Laminate Floor Bubbling

Prevention is key when it comes to protecting your laminate floors. Here are some expert tips to keep your floors in top shape:

Control Moisture Levels

Since humidity is a constant concern in Louisiana, it’s important to maintain proper indoor humidity levels. The EPA recommends keeping indoor humidity between 30% and 50% to prevent moisture damage. To achieve this:

• Use a dehumidifier in high-humidity areas like basements and bathrooms.
• Clean up spills immediately to prevent moisture absorption.
• Fix plumbing leaks and appliance issues promptly.
• Avoid excessive water use when cleaning your floors.

Ensure Proper Installation

If you’re installing new laminate flooring, ensure it’s done correctly to avoid future bubbling. Key installation tips include:

• Leaving proper expansion gaps to allow for natural movement.
• Using the right underlayment for added protection.
• Allowing the flooring to acclimate to your home’s temperature before installation.
• Hiring a professional installer for best results.

Choose Water-Resistant Laminate for Moisture-Prone Areas

For kitchens, bathrooms, and other high-moisture areas, opt for water-resistant or waterproof laminate to reduce the risk of bubbling. These types of flooring are better suited for Louisiana’s humid conditions.

Protect Your Flooring from Heavy Furniture

• Place felt pads under furniture legs to prevent compression.
• Use area rugs in high-traffic areas to minimize wear and tear.
• Avoid dragging heavy objects across the floor.

Regular Maintenance and Inspections

Keeping your laminate floor clean and well-maintained is essential. Dry mopping and using laminate-friendly cleaning solutions can help preserve the surface. Additionally, check regularly for signs of bubbling or moisture-related damage so you can address small issues before they become bigger problems.

What to Do If Your Laminate Floor is Bubbling

If you notice bubbling in your laminate flooring, follow these steps to prevent further damage:

1. Identify and Address the Moisture Source

Check for plumbing leaks, high humidity levels, or spills that weren’t cleaned up. Fixing the moisture issue is the first step in preventing additional damage.

2. Repair or Replace Affected Flooring

For minor bubbling, placing a heavy object on the affected area may help flatten it. However, in severe cases, replacing damaged planks may be necessary. Always follow the manufacturer’s repair guidelines to ensure the best outcome.

3. Consult a Professional

If you’re unsure how to handle bubbling or suspect water damage beneath your flooring, call a professional for an assessment. A flooring expert can determine whether repairs or a full replacement are needed.

Experiencing Water Damage in Your Covington Home? Call PuroClean Today!

If bubbling in your laminate flooring is due to water damage, it’s important to act fast to prevent further structural issues. PuroClean of Covington provides expert water damage restoration services to help homeowners recover from moisture-related flooring problems.

Our highly trained team uses advanced drying technology and proven restoration techniques to handle water damage of any scale. Don’t let excess moisture ruin your floors—call PuroClean of Covington, LA today! Contact us at (985) 590-6600.