Why does your laminate floor start to separate and squeak? Lets delve deeper in this topic, along with some other of laminates common mysteries and quirks. First, let’s explore what makes laminate flooring such a good option to begin with! Laminate flooring is experiencing a resurgance in popularity in houses like yours as time goes on, as its affordable and high quality allows you to get more worth out of the money you’re spending. On top of that, it's quite durable and easy to keep up with maintenance which makes it practical as well as long-lasting. Laminate flooring is characterized by its multilayered synthetic composition resembling natural wood or stone. The multilayered product makes for a largely durable and effective option for homes everywhere.
Despite these amazing pros to owning a laminate flooring, homeowners deal with squeaking and separation gaps, so let’s inquire as to why this happens and how to prevent such issues with your floor!
When it Separates…
It’s possible that your laminate floor can separate from each other or show some gaps between planks, but why does this happen? It can be attributed to a few reasons, such as humidity changes in your area, season changes and such causing your laminate planks to expand or shrink. Though this could also be caused by faulty installation jobs, such as not leaving enough room for expansion gaps, most manufactuers require a quarter inch or 3/8ths. And sometimes even breaking up the rooms at the doorways with a transition strip. Not doing this won't always cause your floor to gap, however it's not too hard to fix if you are experiencing this issue. A separated laminate floor is characterized by large gaps between planks, uneven edges and/or a shifting underfoot.
However, these effects can be lessened or even barely noticeable if you ensure that the floor is carefully taken care of during the installation process. Also consider keeping your indoors a more consistent temperature to help prevent separating planks as well.Thankfully, it should be easy to do if the manufacturer's installation instructions are followed. Keep in mind to leave expansion gaps, even if your flooring has been acclimated. An installer who is installing a laminate flooring should take extra care to ensure its longevity and that the floor’s benefits will be properly utilized.
Why Does Laminate Need to Acclimate?
Acclimation is important to the installation of laminate flooring, as it allows for the flooring to get used to and adjust properly to the temperature and humidity of the room it will be installed in. This helps lessen some of the separation your floor might experience. If this part of the process is skipped, your floor might be at risk for worse separation and gaps after the installation process.
The flooring acclimation period should last for about 2-3 days, or 48-72 hours, and to do this all you need to do is leave it in the room it will be installed in. This will give the floor ample time to properly adjust to its environment, and it will work even better if you tend to keep your rooms at a relatively consistent temperature.
Why is Laminate Flooring Squeaky?
Laminate flooring can tend to be squeaky during their lifespan, however this could be easily prevented before the installation even begins!
The most common reasons for squeaky floors are typically subfloor issues. Having an uneven subfloor is one of the most common reasons for a squeaky floor, so it's important to make sure that your subfloor is properly prepped and evened. Uneven subfloors cause the boards themselves to be uneven, causing the planks to shift. This is also common with underlayments that aren't properly installed, too thick or just not right for the specific floor.
All in all, laminate flooring has amazing technology and fits the lifestyle of a lot of people. It will last a long time with a lot of easy maintenance and theres sure to be a laminate floor that fits the aesthetics of your area. Though, it will need some extra love and care during the installation process, as a floor this good needs a lot of care and attention to ensure it works properly and you can get the full use out of it!
Conclusion
Despite all the flaws of laminate flooring talked about, its also very important to remember all the positives that come with laminate flooring as well! All flooring types have their pluses and minuses, however its important to remember theres a reason many people are reintroducing laminate into their homes again instead of opting vinyl or hardwood. If you follow proper product guidlines for installation and maintence, these issues shouldn't find themselves arising in your house! If you have any further questions about your flooring, laminate or not, please feel free to pick up the phone and contact us at Znet Flooring! And please shop our amazing catalog of laminate products!
Laminate Flooring FAQ
Why is my laminate floor separating at joints?
The most common reasons for laminate flooring to separate could be due to humidty changes or improper acclimation. Poor installation can also contribute to this.
Can separated laminate be fixed without replacing it?
Yes! Small gaps in laminate can be fixed without needing a full replacement, infact there are tools for fixing this. Gap fixers and tapping blocks will help you to fix this issue!
What are reasons for squeaky laminate floors?
Often times, it's usually an uneven or improper subflor that was installed. This unevenness can cause the floor itself to shift or move, causing squeaking
Do I really need to acclimate laminate flooring before installation?
Yes. Acclimating your laminate flooring before installation is essential to ensure your floor will last longer and account more for humidity and temperature. Letting your floor acclimate will reduce the risk for shrinkage or expansion.
How long does laminate flooring last?
Laminate flooring, when properly taken care of, can last 15-25 years. Although high-traffic areas can tend to wear faster.
