What Causes Gaps to Form in Laminate Flooring?

Expansion Gap

• While laminate flooring is engineered to be durable and stable, it still contains materials that need room to breathe. The expansion gap, which accommodates fluctuations in temperature to prevent contraction and buckling, should be up to ½ inch along the perimeter of the room when the flooring is installed. Otherwise, when the weather gets cold, the flooring can contract and display gaps not just along the perimeter, but also where the plank strips join. On the other hand, when the weather is warm or humid, the planks can swell and buckle.

Moisture

• Moisture is often the main culprit that causes laminate floors to gap. While laminate engineered wood floors are better at holding up to water than genuine hardwoods, they can still be victimized. If your flooring is in a basement, moisture can seep underneath the concrete or plywood subfloors. If the flooring is placed at an entryway where family members track in mud or water, the water can penetrate through the planks. If a laundry room is nearby, a water leak can seep and over time make the flooring gap. In most cases, you'll need to lift and replace the laminate pieces to restore the condition and appearance of your floors.

Heavy Objects

• While laminated floors look good beneath a heavy piece of furniture such as an armoire, piano or pool table, the object's weight can exert enough pressure on the flooring planks and strips to produce gaps. If the floors have floating materials installed underneath, the float can deflate and create an air pocket. In time, the laminate flooring layer on top will lift up and create a gap. Use coasters underneath the legs of heavy objects to reduce the occurrence of gaps. Keep a stock of flooring on hand to replace damaged strips or planks.

Improper Installation

• Installation problems can stem from unlevel subflooring or skipping the use of moisture-resistance padding and underlayment materials for floating floor installations. Review your warranty to see if the floors are still covered for repairs or replacement. If so, discuss how the room will be used and the types of furnishings the flooring will need to bear before installation begins.