Laminate flooring, a popular choice known for its affordability and versatility, can sometimes develop unsightly bubbles. Moisture, one common culprit, often seeps in through unsealed edges or spills, leading to swelling. Poor subfloor preparation also contributes, creating uneven surfaces that trap air and encourage bubbling. Identifying what causes laminate to bubble requires careful examination, considering factors such as the quality of the adhesive used during installation. Understanding these elements helps prevent future issues and ensures the longevity of your floors.
Image taken from the YouTube channel Magic Wood Floors LLC , from the video titled How to get rid of Laminate Flooring bubbles .
Laminate Bubbling? Uncover the Hidden Culprits!
Laminate flooring offers a beautiful and durable surface, but like any material, it’s susceptible to problems. One common issue is bubbling, which can detract from the floor’s appearance and potentially indicate a more serious underlying problem. Understanding "what causes laminate to bubble" is the first step in prevention and repair. This guide will explore the common reasons behind this unsightly issue.
Moisture: The Primary Offender
Moisture is, by far, the most frequent cause of laminate bubbling. Laminate flooring is primarily made of wood-based materials (like fiberboard or particleboard) which are highly absorbent. When these materials absorb moisture, they swell, causing the laminate layer above to lift and bubble.
Sources of Moisture
Understanding where the moisture is coming from is crucial for effective troubleshooting. Here are several potential culprits:
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Spills and Leaks: Obvious culprits include spilled drinks, pet accidents, and leaks from appliances (dishwashers, refrigerators) or plumbing. These can seep into the seams between laminate planks.
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High Humidity: Excessive humidity in the air, especially in areas with poor ventilation like bathrooms or basements, can cause the laminate to absorb moisture from the air over time.
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Subfloor Moisture: This is a very common and often overlooked cause. Moisture rising from the subfloor (concrete or wood) due to inadequate sealing or a lack of a proper moisture barrier before installation can lead to bubbling.
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Improper Cleaning: Using excessive water when mopping or cleaning laminate floors can lead to water seeping into the seams. Steam mops, in particular, can be problematic.
Identifying Moisture Problems
Look for clues that suggest moisture issues:
- Location of Bubbles: Are the bubbles concentrated near plumbing fixtures, doorways (where rain might enter), or areas with high humidity?
- Dampness: Do you feel a dampness or musty odor in the affected area?
- Discoloration: Is there any discoloration or staining around the bubbles?
- Proximity to Walls: Are the bubbles more prominent near the edges of the room where the floor meets the wall? This could indicate moisture intrusion from the walls.
Improper Installation
Even in the absence of excessive moisture, poor installation techniques can also contribute to laminate bubbling.
Lack of Expansion Gap
Laminate flooring needs room to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity. An expansion gap is a small space (typically ¼ to ½ inch) left around the perimeter of the room during installation. If this gap is not present, the laminate can buckle and potentially bubble as it expands against the walls.
Uneven Subfloor
An uneven subfloor can create stress points on the laminate planks. These stress points, combined with even minimal moisture absorption, can lead to bubbling, especially at the seams.
Inadequate Underlayment
The underlayment provides a smooth, even surface for the laminate to rest on and can also act as a moisture barrier. Using the wrong type of underlayment, or skipping it altogether, can increase the risk of bubbling.
Manufacturing Defects
While less common, manufacturing defects in the laminate itself can sometimes be the cause of bubbling.
Delamination
In rare cases, the layers of the laminate may not be properly bonded together during manufacturing. This can lead to delamination (separation of the layers) which manifests as bubbles.
Poor Quality Materials
Using low-quality materials in the manufacturing process can make the laminate more susceptible to moisture damage and bubbling.
Solutions and Prevention
Addressing "what causes laminate to bubble" involves both preventative measures and corrective actions.
- Address Moisture Issues: Identify and repair any leaks or sources of moisture. Improve ventilation in humid areas. Use dehumidifiers if necessary.
- Proper Cleaning: Use a damp (not wet) mop when cleaning. Avoid steam mops and excessive water. Use cleaners specifically designed for laminate floors.
- Correct Installation: Ensure a proper expansion gap is present. Level the subfloor before installation. Use a high-quality underlayment with a moisture barrier.
- Material Selection: Choose high-quality laminate flooring from a reputable manufacturer.
- Professional Inspection: If you suspect a more serious problem, such as rising damp from the subfloor, consult a professional flooring installer or building inspector.
Laminate Bubbling FAQs
Got bubbles under your laminate flooring? These frequently asked questions can help you understand the problem and find a solution.
What’s the most common cause of laminate flooring bubbles?
Excess moisture is almost always the culprit. Water seeping in from spills, leaks, or even high humidity levels can get trapped beneath the laminate, causing the core to swell. This swelling leads to what causes laminate to bubble.
Can I fix a laminate bubble myself, or do I need a professional?
Small, isolated bubbles might be fixable with a syringe and adhesive, but larger or numerous bubbles usually indicate a bigger underlying moisture issue. Contact a flooring professional to assess the problem and determine the best course of action. Ignoring it could lead to further damage.
How can I prevent laminate flooring from bubbling in the future?
Prevention is key! Clean spills immediately, ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens, and address any potential leaks promptly. A vapor barrier is essential during installation to help prevent moisture from rising from the subfloor which causes laminate to bubble.
My laminate flooring is bubbling, but I don’t see any obvious water damage. What could be the reason?
Even without a visible spill, persistent high humidity, a slow plumbing leak behind a wall, or inadequate underlayment can create enough moisture to cause laminate flooring to bubble. Improper acclimation of the laminate prior to installation can also lead to issues as the planks adjust to the environment. All of these contribute to what causes laminate to bubble.
So, next time you spot a bubble in your laminate, remember the suspects we’ve discussed. Understanding what causes laminate to bubble is half the battle. Good luck diagnosing and fixing the issue – your floors will thank you for it!