Blog > Articles > Why Do Bubbles Form in Laminate Flooring, and How Can You Fix Them?
Thursday, March 7, 2025
Why Do Bubbles Form in Laminate Flooring, and How Can You Fix Them?
Laminate flooring is a popular choice for homeowners in Albany, NY, and surrounding areas due to its durability, ease of installation, and attractive appearance. However, one common issue that can arise after laminate floor installation is the formation of bubbles or blisters on the surface. If you've noticed unsightly bubbles on your laminate floors, you may wonder what causes them and how to fix them. Let's dive into the reasons behind this issue and explore solutions to restore your beautiful floors.
Causes of Bubbles in Laminate Flooring
1. Moisture Exposure
Excess moisture is one of the most common causes of bubbles in laminate flooring. Laminate floors are designed to resist water to some extent, but if water seeps into the seams, it can cause the flooring to swell. This is especially common in areas with high humidity or where spills weren’t cleaned up promptly.
2. Improper Installation
Another possible cause is improper installation. When installing laminate flooring, leaving an expansion gap around the edges must accommodate natural expansion and contraction. If this gap is neglected, or if the floor is glued down instead of being installed as a floating floor, it can lead to bubbling as the floor expands and presses against the walls.
3. Subfloor Issues
An uneven, dirty, or damp subfloor can create issues during laminate floor installation. The laminate planks may not sit correctly, leading to gaps or bubbles as the material adjusts to the uneven surface beneath it.
4. Excessive Pressure
Excessive weight or pressure on the laminate flooring during or after installation can also cause bubbles. This can happen if heavy furniture or appliances are placed on the floor before it has had time to set and acclimate properly.
How to Fix Bubbles in Laminate Flooring
1. Let the Floor Settle
Sometimes, simply allowing the laminate floor to settle can resolve minor bubbles. If the bubbles are tiny and caused by humidity or pressure, they may disappear once the floor has had time to adjust.
2. Resealing the Edges
If moisture has seeped into the seams, resealing the edges with a laminate adhesive or caulk can help prevent further damage. Be sure to wipe up any moisture immediately to avoid more severe issues.
3. Reinstalling the Affected Planks
You may need to replace or reinstall the affected laminate planks for larger bubbles. Carefully remove the damaged planks, ensuring they do not damage the surrounding pieces, and reinstall them correctly, ensuring a tight fit and proper expansion gap.
4. Check the Subfloor
If the bubbles persist after addressing moisture and installation issues, you may need to inspect your subfloor. If it's uneven, it may need to be leveled before reinstalling the laminate flooring.
Preventing Bubbles in Laminate Flooring
The best way to avoid bubbles is to ensure proper laminate flooring installation. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines is crucial when installing laminate flooring, especially regarding expansion gaps and subfloor preparation. Additionally, taking care of spills immediately and maintaining proper humidity levels in your home can help extend the life of your laminate floors.
Discount Flooring in Albany, NY, offers expert laminate floor installation services, and we’re here to help you maintain and repair your flooring. Whether dealing with bubbling laminate or planning a new installation, our team is ready to provide the necessary solutions.
Serving East Greenbush, Saratoga, Schenectady, Greene County, Berkshire County, Rensselaer County, and Troy, NY, we’re your go-to laminate flooring store for quality products and professional installation. Visit our showrooms or contact us today to find out how we can assist with your flooring needs!