Why Laminate Flooring Buckles: Causes and Solutions for Homeowners

You walk across your living room and feel a strange bump underfoot. At first, you think it might be a rug or a toy left behind. But when you look closer, you see a section of your laminate floor has lifted, creating an uneven ridge that runs across several planks. This is laminate flooring buckling,a problem that can start small but quickly turns into a trip hazard and an eyesore. Many homeowners discover it during spring or summer, when humidity rises and floors begin to swell. If ignored, buckling can crack planks, damage the subfloor, and lead to costly repairs. In this article, we’ll explain why laminate flooring buckles, how to spot early warning signs, and what professional contractors can do to fix it for good.

Understanding why laminate flooring buckles

Laminate flooring is made of layers of fiberboard and resin pressed together. It looks like wood but behaves differently when moisture or temperature changes. Buckling happens when the planks expand and press against each other or against walls, forcing the floor to lift upward. The most common cause is moisture,either from a spill that wasn’t cleaned up, a leaky appliance, or high humidity in the room.

Another frequent culprit is improper installation. If installers didn’t leave enough expansion gap around the edges,typically ¼ to ⅜ inch,the floor has no room to expand and contracts naturally. Over time, trapped pressure leads to buckling. Homes with concrete slabs, basements, or poor ventilation are especially prone to this problem. Even seasonal changes can trigger it if the flooring wasn’t acclimated before installation.

In our guide on what causes laminate flooring to buckle, we cover the full list of triggers, including subfloor issues and heavy furniture placement. Understanding the root cause is the first step toward a lasting fix.

Why this matters for your home

Buckled laminate isn’t just an eyesore,it can affect your home’s safety and value. Raised planks create tripping hazards for children, elderly family members, and guests. If buckling is caused by moisture, the problem may be hiding mold or rot underneath the floor, which can compromise indoor air quality and structural integrity.

Delaying repairs often makes things worse. A small buckle can grow into widespread damage that requires replacing entire sections of flooring. Water that seeps beneath the planks can ruin the subfloor, adding thousands of dollars to the final repair bill. Addressing the issue early protects your investment and keeps your home comfortable and safe.

If you notice signs of this issue in your home, it may help to speak with a qualified contractor. Request a free quote or call to explore your repair or remodeling options.

Common problems homeowners experience

Laminate buckling can show up in different ways depending on the cause. You might notice a single plank that has lifted at the seam, or a whole row of planks that forms a wave across the floor. Some homeowners first see gaps between planks before buckling occurs,a sign that the floor is shifting under pressure.

These problems often appear in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, or near entryways where moisture is common. In homes with slab foundations, moisture can wick up through the concrete and attack the laminate from below. Older laminate floors are also more vulnerable because the locking mechanisms can weaken over time.

• Visible bumps or ridges in the floor surface
• Planks that feel spongy or move when walked on
• Gaps appearing between planks
• Peeling or curling at the edges of planks
• Mold or mildew smell near the affected area
• Flooring that feels warm or damp in spots

How professionals solve the problem

Professional contractors start by diagnosing the root cause,whether it’s moisture, lack of expansion gap, or subfloor damage. They use moisture meters to check humidity levels and inspect the perimeter of the room for gaps. Once the cause is identified, they can recommend the most effective repair, which might be as simple as removing a few planks to add expansion space or as involved as replacing water-damaged subflooring.

Here’s a typical process contractors follow:

1. Inspect and identify the cause using specialized tools.
2. Remove affected planks carefully to avoid damaging adjacent boards.
3. Address the underlying issue, such as sealing a concrete slab or fixing a leak.
4. Replace or reinstall flooring with proper expansion gaps and moisture barriers.
5. Acclimate new planks to the room’s temperature and humidity for 48 hours before installation.

Professional work is almost always safer and more reliable than DIY fixes. A contractor ensures the subfloor is dry and level, uses the right underlayment, and guarantees the repair will last. For homeowners considering a full replacement, comparing laminate flooring installation approaches can help you decide what fits your home best.

A professional inspection can reveal hidden issues before they become expensive repairs. Compare contractor quotes here or call to discuss your project.

Warning signs you should not ignore

Buckling rarely happens overnight. It usually gives warning signs that are easy to miss if you’re not paying attention. The earlier you catch these signs, the simpler and cheaper the repair will be. A small gap between planks today can turn into a raised ridge next month.

Pay attention to how your floor feels after rainstorms or during humid summer weeks. If certain areas feel softer or look slightly raised, it’s time to investigate. Also, check under furniture and near baseboards,buckling often starts in hidden spots where moisture collects unnoticed.

• Floor feels uneven or wavy when you walk across it
• Planks seem to be lifting at the seams
• Baseboards or trim appear pushed out of place
• Doors start sticking or scraping against the floor
• Musty odors near the floor, especially after rain
• Visible water stains or discoloration on planks

What affects the cost of repairs or installation

The cost to fix buckled laminate flooring depends on several factors. A simple repair,like removing a few planks and adding an expansion gap,might cost a few hundred dollars. But if the subfloor is damaged or the entire room needs new flooring, costs can climb into the thousands. The size of the affected area is the biggest factor: a small spot in a corner is much cheaper than buckling that runs across the whole room.

Materials also play a role. High-end laminate with thicker wear layers costs more to replace. Labor costs vary by region and by how accessible the work area is,floors in tight spaces like closets or hallways take more time. If the home is older, there may be additional challenges like uneven subfloors or outdated moisture barriers that require extra work.

Costs can vary depending on the condition of your home. The best way to know the price is to get a personalized estimate. Request free quotes from contractors or call today.

How to choose the right contractor

Not every flooring contractor has the same experience with laminate buckling repairs. When you’re comparing options, look for someone who specifically mentions moisture testing and expansion gap adjustments in their process. A good contractor will visit your home, inspect the floor, and explain the cause before giving you a quote.

Start by asking for recommendations from neighbors or checking online reviews on platforms like Repairmen. Always verify that the contractor is licensed and insured,this protects you if something goes wrong during the repair. A written estimate should include materials, labor, and a timeline so you know exactly what to expect.

• Check for valid license and liability insurance
• Read recent customer reviews on trusted sites
• Ask for a detailed written estimate before work begins
• Get at least three quotes to compare pricing and approach
• Confirm the contractor has experience with laminate flooring specifically

Long-term benefits of professional work

Hiring a professional to fix buckled laminate flooring gives you peace of mind that the problem won’t come back. A skilled contractor addresses the root cause,whether that’s humidity control, subfloor repair, or proper installation technique. This means you won’t be dealing with the same buckle next season.

Professional repairs also preserve your home’s value. Well-maintained flooring is a key selling point for buyers, and a smooth, level floor signals that the home has been cared for. In addition, proper installation can improve energy efficiency by creating a better seal against drafts and moisture. Over time, you’ll spend less on maintenance and repairs because the job was done right the first time.

If you’re still deciding between laminate and other materials, learn more by reading our comparison of hardwood vs laminate flooring to see which option fits your lifestyle and budget.

Can buckled laminate flooring be fixed without replacing it?

In some cases, yes. If the buckling is caused by excess humidity or a lack of expansion gap, a contractor can often remove the baseboards, trim the planks, and reinstall them with proper spacing. However, if the planks are warped or the subfloor is damaged, replacement may be necessary.

How long does it take for laminate flooring to buckle after water damage?

Buckling can appear within hours or days after a significant water spill or leak, depending on temperature and humidity. Even a small amount of water left standing for a few hours can cause the edges of the planks to swell, leading to visible buckling within a week.

Is laminate flooring buckling covered by homeowners insurance?

It depends on the cause. If buckling is caused by a sudden event like a burst pipe or appliance leak, your policy may cover the damage. Gradual moisture damage from high humidity or poor installation is usually not covered. Check with your insurance provider and ask your contractor to document the cause.

What is the best way to prevent laminate flooring from buckling?

Prevention starts with proper installation,leave the recommended expansion gap around all walls, use a moisture barrier on concrete subfloors, and acclimate the planks before installation. In high-humidity areas, use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to keep indoor moisture levels below 50%.

Can I fix buckled laminate flooring myself?

Small fixes like adding expansion space are possible for experienced DIYers, but most buckling repairs require diagnosing hidden issues like subfloor moisture or improper leveling. A professional inspection is recommended to avoid making the problem worse or voiding the flooring warranty.

Does laminate flooring buckle more in summer or winter?

Buckling is more common in summer when humidity levels rise, causing laminate planks to expand. In winter, indoor air tends to be drier, which can cause planks to shrink and create gaps,a different but related problem.

How much does it cost to repair buckled laminate flooring per square foot?

Repair costs typically range from $3 to $8 per square foot for simple fixes, and $8 to $15 per square foot if the subfloor needs repair or replacement. Getting multiple quotes helps you find a fair price for your specific situation.

Laminate flooring buckling is a common problem, but it doesn’t have to ruin your home or your budget. By understanding the causes and acting quickly, you can protect your floors and avoid expensive repairs. Whether you need a small fix or a full replacement, the smartest first step is to compare quotes from trusted contractors. Reach out to Repairmen today to connect with vetted professionals in your area and get your floors back in shape.