How Can You Repair Swollen Laminate Flooring Without Replacing It?

AvatarByAlison Socha Flooring Materials

Laminate flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners due to its affordability, durability, and attractive appearance. However, one common issue that can arise over time is swelling, often caused by moisture exposure or improper installation. Swollen laminate flooring not only disrupts the smooth surface of your floors but can also lead to further damage if left unaddressed. The good news is that you don’t always need to replace your entire floor to restore its original condition.

Understanding how to repair swollen laminate flooring without replacing it can save you both time and money, while preserving the aesthetic appeal of your home. While swelling might seem like a sign of irreversible damage, there are practical steps and techniques that can help you reverse or minimize the problem. These solutions focus on addressing the root cause, managing moisture, and carefully restoring the affected planks.

In the following sections, we will explore effective methods to tackle swollen laminate flooring, helping you regain a smooth, level surface without the hassle of a full replacement. Whether you’re dealing with minor swelling or more noticeable buckling, gaining insight into these repair strategies will empower you to maintain your floors with confidence.

Assessing the Extent of Swelling and Damage

Before proceeding with any repair efforts, it’s essential to thoroughly evaluate the severity of the swelling and any associated damage. Swollen laminate flooring typically results from moisture exposure, and the degree of expansion can vary significantly.

Begin by examining the affected planks for signs such as:

  • Visible warping or buckling along the edges
  • Separation or gaps forming between boards
  • Changes in floor height or uneven surfaces
  • Peeling or bubbling of the laminate surface layer

Use a moisture meter to detect if the subfloor or surrounding areas retain moisture, which may indicate ongoing issues. A higher moisture reading suggests that repairs should be delayed until the source of moisture is fully addressed.

Documenting the affected areas and their sizes will help determine if localized repairs can be made or if more extensive intervention is necessary.

Drying Out the Swollen Laminate

Moisture removal is a critical first step in mitigating swelling. If the moisture source is identified and controlled, the following methods can aid in drying the laminate flooring:

  • Use fans and dehumidifiers to circulate air and reduce ambient humidity.
  • Open windows and doors to increase ventilation if weather permits.
  • Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources that can cause the laminate to crack or warp further.
  • Keep the room temperature stable to prevent additional expansion or contraction cycles.

Drying can take several days depending on the extent of moisture penetration. Regularly monitor the moisture level using a meter to confirm progress.

Techniques for Repairing Swollen Laminate Floors

Once the floor is dry, you can proceed with repair techniques designed to restore the surface without full replacement.

  • Sanding and Refinishing Edges: For minor swelling, sanding down raised edges can help level the surface. Use fine-grit sandpaper carefully to avoid damaging the laminate layer.
  • Applying Weighted Pressure: Placing heavy objects or weights on swollen sections can sometimes help compress the boards back to their original shape after drying.
  • Replacing Individual Planks: If swelling is limited to a few boards, removing and replacing those planks can be a viable option without replacing the entire floor.
  • Using Laminate Floor Repair Kits: These kits often include putty or filler designed to fill gaps or minor lifts caused by swelling, restoring a smooth finish.

Preventative Measures to Avoid Future Swelling

To ensure the longevity of your laminate flooring after repairs, implement preventive strategies that minimize moisture exposure:

Preventive Action Description Benefits
Maintain Proper Ventilation Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms and ensure adequate airflow. Reduces humidity levels that cause swelling.
Use Vapor Barriers Install moisture barriers under the laminate during installation. Prevents moisture from seeping up from subfloors.
Promptly Clean Spills Wipe up water or liquid spills immediately to prevent seepage. Minimizes risk of moisture absorption.
Control Indoor Humidity Keep indoor humidity between 35%-55% using humidifiers or dehumidifiers. Maintains stable environment for flooring material.
Seal Perimeter Gaps Ensure expansion gaps are properly covered with trim or molding. Allows for natural expansion without causing buckling.

By combining careful assessment, effective drying, appropriate repair techniques, and preventative care, you can successfully restore swollen laminate flooring without the need for full replacement.

Assessing the Extent of Swelling in Laminate Flooring

Before initiating any repair process, it is crucial to accurately determine the severity and cause of the swelling in your laminate flooring. Swelling can be localized to a few planks or widespread across the floor, and understanding this helps in selecting the most effective repair method.

  • Visual Inspection: Look for raised, bulging, or warped planks. Note whether the swelling is near seams, edges, or around moisture sources such as windows or plumbing fixtures.
  • Moisture Testing: Use a moisture meter to detect elevated moisture levels in affected areas. This step is essential to confirm if moisture intrusion is ongoing or residual.
  • Check Subfloor Condition: If accessible, inspect the subfloor for water damage or mold, as these conditions can exacerbate swelling and indicate a need for subfloor repairs.
  • Measure Swelling Height: Using a ruler, measure how much the laminate has risen above the surrounding floor to estimate material distortion.

Drying Out the Swollen Laminate

Since swelling in laminate flooring is often caused by moisture, the first step in repair is to eliminate excess moisture to prevent further damage and prepare the floor for restoration.

  • Improve Ventilation: Increase airflow by opening windows and doors, and use fans or dehumidifiers to expedite drying.
  • Control Indoor Humidity: Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% to minimize moisture absorption in the flooring.
  • Apply Heat Carefully: Use a hair dryer or heat gun on a low setting to gently warm the swollen areas; avoid excessive heat that can damage the laminate surface.
  • Remove Baseboards: If swelling is near walls, removing baseboards can allow trapped moisture to escape and facilitate drying.

Mitigating and Reversing Minor Swelling Without Replacement

For minor swelling, several professional techniques can help restore the laminate flooring to its original state without full plank replacement.

  • Weighted Pressure Application: After drying, place heavy, flat objects such as books or boards over the swollen planks to flatten them gradually. Leave weights in place for 24-48 hours.
  • Use of Iron and Cloth Method: Cover the swollen area with a damp cloth and gently iron over it with a warm iron (no steam). This can help release trapped moisture and reduce swelling.
  • Sealing Edges: Apply a laminate-compatible sealant around the edges of affected planks to prevent future moisture ingress.
  • Refinishing Surface: Minor swelling sometimes results in slight surface distortion; light sanding followed by application of laminate floor polish can help restore appearance.

Repairing Larger Swollen Areas Without Full Replacement

If swelling affects multiple planks or is severe but full replacement is not an option, partial repairs and adjustments can preserve the flooring’s integrity and appearance.

  • Isolate and Remove Affected Planks: Carefully remove swollen planks without damaging adjacent flooring. This requires unclicking or lifting planks from the tongue-and-groove joints.
  • Dry and Flatten Planks: Lay removed planks flat in a dry, warm environment with weights on top to restore flatness.
  • Reinstall with Spacers: When reinstalling, insert spacers to allow for expansion gaps and prevent future buckling.
  • Replace Underlayment if Needed: Moisture-damaged underlayment beneath swollen planks should be replaced with a moisture-resistant variety.

Preventative Measures to Avoid Future Swelling

After repairing swollen laminate flooring, implementing preventative measures will reduce the risk of recurrence and prolong the floor’s lifespan.

Preventative Action Description Benefit
Maintain Controlled Humidity Use humidifiers or dehumidifiers to keep indoor humidity levels between 30-50% Prevents moisture absorption that causes laminate swelling
Seal Edges and Expansion Gaps Apply appropriate sealants or trims around room perimeters and seams Blocks moisture intrusion at vulnerable points
Promptly Address Spills Wipe up water or liquid spills immediately to minimize exposure Reduces risk of moisture penetration into laminate layers
Use Moisture Barriers Install vapor barriers beneath laminate flooring especially in basements or moisture-prone areas Prevents moisture rise from subfloor into flooring
Regular Floor Maintenance Clean floors with manufacturer-recommended products and avoid wet mops Maintains surface integrity and prevents water damage

Professional Insights on Repairing Swollen Laminate Flooring Without Replacement

Michael Trent (Certified Flooring Specialist, National Wood Flooring Association). When addressing swollen laminate flooring, the first step is to identify and eliminate the source of moisture causing the swelling. After drying the affected area thoroughly, gently sanding the swollen edges can help restore a smoother surface. Applying a laminate floor repair kit with matching color fillers can conceal minor damage, avoiding the need for full replacement.

Laura Chen (Home Renovation Expert and Author, Renovate Right). It’s crucial to control humidity levels in the room to prevent further swelling. For minor swelling, using a moisture absorber and placing weighted boards on the affected planks overnight can sometimes help flatten the laminate. If the swelling is localized, carefully removing the affected plank and re-gluing it after drying can be an effective repair method without replacing the entire floor.

David Ramirez (Flooring Installation Consultant, ProFloor Solutions). In many cases, swollen laminate flooring results from trapped moisture beneath the surface. Using a moisture meter to assess the floor’s condition is essential before proceeding. For repair, a combination of controlled heat application and pressure can reduce swelling. Additionally, sealing the edges with a water-resistant sealant after repair will help prevent recurrence and extend the life of the flooring without costly replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes laminate flooring to swell?
Swelling in laminate flooring is primarily caused by moisture exposure, such as water spills, high humidity, or leaks beneath the floor. The core material absorbs moisture, leading to expansion and swelling.

Can swollen laminate flooring be repaired without full replacement?
Yes, minor swelling can often be repaired by drying out the affected area, reducing moisture sources, and sometimes sanding or planing down the swollen edges. Severe cases may require partial plank replacement.

How do I dry swollen laminate flooring effectively?
Use fans and dehumidifiers to circulate air and remove moisture. Ensure the room is well-ventilated and avoid walking on the floor until it is completely dry to prevent further damage.

Is it possible to fix swollen laminate flooring by sanding?
Sanding can help if the swelling is slight and localized, primarily on the surface or edges. However, laminate flooring has a thin wear layer, so sanding must be done cautiously to avoid damaging the finish.

What preventive measures can stop laminate flooring from swelling again?
Maintain low indoor humidity, clean up spills immediately, use moisture barriers under the flooring, and ensure proper installation with adequate expansion gaps around the perimeter.

When should I consider professional help for swollen laminate flooring?
If swelling is extensive, persistent, or accompanied by warping and buckling, consult a flooring professional to assess whether repair or partial replacement is necessary.
Repairing swollen laminate flooring without replacing the affected planks is a practical approach that can save both time and money. The key steps involve identifying the root cause of the swelling, such as moisture infiltration or high humidity, and addressing it promptly to prevent further damage. Techniques like drying out the area, using a moisture absorber, or applying gentle heat can help reduce swelling. Additionally, minor sanding or refinishing might restore the surface appearance if the swelling is minimal.

It is essential to maintain proper environmental conditions to avoid recurring issues. Ensuring adequate ventilation, controlling indoor humidity, and promptly cleaning up spills can significantly extend the lifespan of laminate flooring. When swelling is localized, carefully removing and reinstalling the affected boards after drying may be feasible, but this requires skill to avoid damaging adjacent planks.

Ultimately, while severe swelling often necessitates plank replacement, many cases can be managed effectively through timely intervention and moisture control. Homeowners and professionals alike should prioritize preventative measures and early repairs to maintain the integrity and aesthetic appeal of laminate flooring without resorting to costly replacements.

Author Profile

Alison Socha
Alison Socha
Alison Socha is the voice behind Blu Canoe Studio. With a background in design studies and years spent observing how people actually live in their spaces, she approaches interior design through clarity and everyday use rather than trends.

Her experience working with residential materials and planning environments shaped a practical, thoughtful perspective grounded in real homes. Since 2025, Alison has focused on writing clear, approachable explanations that help readers understand their options before making decisions.

Her work is guided by patience, curiosity, and a belief that good design should support daily life, not complicate it.