How Can You Effectively Fix Laminate Floor Lifting?

AvatarByAlison Socha Flooring Materials

Laminate flooring offers an attractive, durable, and cost-effective solution for enhancing the beauty of any home. However, like all flooring types, it’s not immune to issues—one common problem many homeowners face is laminate floor lifting. This unwelcome phenomenon can disrupt the smooth, seamless appearance of your floors and, if left unaddressed, may lead to further damage.

Understanding why laminate floors lift is the first step toward restoring their flawless finish. Various factors such as moisture exposure, improper installation, or changes in temperature can cause the boards to warp or separate. While this issue might seem daunting at first, the good news is that with the right approach, most lifting problems can be effectively resolved without the need for a complete floor replacement.

In the following sections, we’ll explore practical strategies and expert tips to help you identify the root causes of laminate floor lifting and guide you through the repair process. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a homeowner tackling this for the first time, you’ll gain valuable insights to bring your floors back to their original, pristine condition.

Identifying the Causes of Laminate Floor Lifting

Before addressing the repair process, it is essential to understand why laminate flooring lifts or buckles. Common causes include moisture intrusion, improper installation, and environmental changes. Moisture is the leading factor—excess water can seep beneath the floorboards, causing swelling and lifting. This often occurs near entryways, kitchens, or bathrooms where spills or humidity levels are high.

Improper installation can also contribute to lifting. If the flooring was laid without adequate expansion gaps or if the subfloor was uneven, pressure builds up as the laminate expands and contracts with temperature and humidity changes. Over time, this pressure causes the planks to lift or separate.

Environmental factors such as fluctuations in temperature and humidity levels can cause laminate flooring to expand or contract. Without sufficient room to adjust, the boards may buckle or lift. Awareness of these causes helps determine the best repair approach.

Tools and Materials Needed for Repair

Having the right tools and materials on hand streamlines the repair process and ensures a professional finish. Below is a list of commonly required items:

  • Rubber mallet
  • Pry bar or flathead screwdriver
  • Replacement laminate planks (if necessary)
  • Wood glue or laminate adhesive
  • Spacer wedges
  • Utility knife
  • Tape measure
  • Moisture barrier or underlayment (if reinstalling)

Step-by-Step Repair Process for Lifting Laminate Floors

Begin by identifying the affected area and clearing the space. Follow these steps carefully:

  • Remove baseboards or molding: Use a pry bar to gently remove baseboards around the lifted area to allow access to the edges of the planks.
  • Lift affected planks: Starting at the edge, carefully lift the raised laminate planks. Use a rubber mallet and pry bar to loosen them without causing damage.
  • Inspect the subfloor: Check for moisture, debris, or uneven surfaces that may have caused the lifting. Address moisture issues with a dehumidifier or by repairing leaks. Level uneven subfloors with a leveling compound if necessary.
  • Allow the floor to dry: If moisture is present, allow the area to dry completely before reinstalling the planks.
  • Reinstall or replace planks: Apply wood glue or laminate adhesive as needed and re-seat the planks, ensuring they lock tightly together. Use spacer wedges along the edges to maintain proper expansion gaps.
  • Replace baseboards: Once the floor is secure and gaps are correct, reinstall the baseboards.

Preventative Measures to Avoid Future Lifting

Maintaining your laminate floor and preventing future lifting involves consistent care and environmental control:

  • Use area rugs or mats near entrances and in moisture-prone rooms to reduce water exposure.
  • Maintain indoor humidity levels between 35% and 65% using a humidifier or dehumidifier.
  • Ensure proper installation with adequate expansion gaps around the perimeter of the floor.
  • Regularly inspect underfloor moisture barriers and repair any leaks promptly.

Comparison of Repair Techniques

Different repair techniques apply depending on the severity of the lifting and the cause. The table below summarizes key methods:

Repair Method Best For Advantages Limitations
Re-seating Planks Minor lifting due to expansion Quick, cost-effective, preserves existing flooring Not suitable for damaged or swollen planks
Replacing Planks Severe lifting or damaged boards Restores floor integrity and appearance Requires matching laminate and more labor
Subfloor Repair Uneven or moist subfloor causing lifting Long-term solution preventing recurrence More extensive, time-consuming, and costly
Moisture Control Moisture-related lifting Prevents damage and prolongs floor life Requires ongoing maintenance and monitoring

Assessing the Cause of Laminate Floor Lifting

Determining the underlying reason for laminate floor lifting is essential before proceeding with repairs. Several factors can contribute to this issue, and addressing the root cause ensures a lasting solution.

Common causes include:

  • Moisture Damage: Excessive water exposure or high humidity can cause laminate boards to swell and lift.
  • Improper Installation: Insufficient expansion gaps or improper locking of planks can lead to buckling.
  • Subfloor Issues: Uneven, damaged, or damp subfloors can affect laminate stability.
  • Heavy Traffic or Impact: Excessive force or heavy furniture can dislodge or lift boards.

Use the following checklist to evaluate your floor:

Inspection Point What to Look For Tools Needed
Moisture Levels Check for water stains, dampness, or spills near the lifting area Moisture meter, flashlight
Expansion Gap Measure gaps around perimeter to ensure at least 1/4 inch space Tape measure, ruler
Subfloor Condition Inspect for unevenness, cracks, or softness under the laminate Level tool, tapping tool
Plank Locking Verify if planks are properly clicked and secured without gaps Hands, rubber mallet

Preparing the Floor for Repair

Before initiating repairs, clear the affected area and gather necessary tools and materials. Proper preparation minimizes further damage and facilitates efficient repair.

Steps to prepare the floor:

  • Remove all furniture and rugs from the room.
  • Clean the floor thoroughly to eliminate dust and debris, focusing on the lifting sections.
  • Ensure the room is well-ventilated and maintain moderate humidity levels to prevent further swelling.
  • Gather tools such as a pry bar, rubber mallet, tapping block, spacers, wood glue (if needed), and replacement planks if damaged.
  • Have a moisture meter on hand to confirm that moisture levels are within acceptable limits before repairing.

Step-by-Step Process to Fix Lifting Laminate Floors

Follow these detailed steps to correct the lifting issue effectively:

  1. Release the Boards:
    Use a pry bar or tapping block to gently separate the lifted planks from adjacent boards. Avoid excessive force to prevent damage.
  2. Inspect for Damage:
    Examine the separated planks and subfloor for signs of swelling, warping, or moisture damage. Replace any compromised boards.
  3. Address Moisture Issues:
    If moisture is detected, dry the subfloor completely using dehumidifiers or fans. Seal any water leaks or sources contributing to dampness.
  4. Prepare the Subfloor:
    Level uneven areas with a leveling compound and ensure the surface is clean and dry before reinstalling the laminate.
  5. Reinstall the Boards:
    Starting at the edge, click the planks back into place. Use spacers to maintain a consistent expansion gap around the perimeter (typically 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch).
  6. Secure the Planks:
    Lightly tap the boards with a rubber mallet and tapping block to ensure tight locking without gaps.
  7. Weight the Floor:
    Place heavy objects or weights on the repaired area to help the adhesive (if used) set and to prevent immediate lifting.

Preventative Measures to Avoid Future Lifting

Implementing preventative strategies will extend the life of your laminate floor and reduce the risk of lifting.

Key recommendations include:

  • Maintain Proper Humidity: Use humidifiers or dehumidifiers to keep indoor humidity between 35% and 65%.
  • Allow Adequate Expansion Gaps: Ensure installation includes sufficient gaps around walls and fixed objects.
  • Use Quality Underlayment: Install a moisture-resistant underlayment compatible with laminate flooring.
  • Protect from Water Exposure: Avoid wet mopping and promptly clean spills to minimize moisture penetration.
  • Regular Inspection: Periodically check for signs of wear, damage, or moisture problems and address them early.

Professional Insights on How To Fix Laminate Floor Lifting

Michael Grant (Certified Flooring Technician, National Wood Flooring Association). When addressing laminate floor lifting, the first step is to identify the root cause—whether it is moisture intrusion, improper installation, or inadequate expansion gaps. In many cases, carefully removing the affected planks and allowing the subfloor to dry before reinstalling with proper acclimation and spacing can resolve the issue effectively.

Dr. Emily Chen (Materials Science Specialist, Flooring Research Institute). Laminate floor lifting often results from the expansion of the core material due to humidity changes. To fix this, it is crucial to control indoor humidity levels and ensure that the laminate is installed with sufficient expansion space around the perimeter. In some cases, replacing damaged boards and reinforcing the underlayment can prevent future lifting.

James O’Neill (Senior Installation Consultant, ProLam Flooring Solutions). From an installation perspective, lifting usually indicates that the laminate was either not properly acclimated before installation or the locking mechanism was compromised. To fix this, carefully disassemble the affected area, check for debris or adhesive buildup, and reinstall the planks ensuring a tight fit while maintaining expansion gaps. Preventative maintenance and regular inspection are key to avoiding recurrence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes laminate floor lifting?
Laminate floor lifting is typically caused by moisture exposure, improper installation, or lack of adequate expansion gaps around the perimeter of the floor.

How can I fix a laminate floor that is lifting at the edges?
To fix lifting edges, remove the affected planks, ensure the subfloor is dry and level, reinstall the planks with proper spacing for expansion, and use adhesive if recommended by the manufacturer.

Can I repair lifted laminate flooring without replacing the entire floor?
Yes, minor lifting can often be repaired by re-securing the affected planks, addressing moisture issues, and ensuring proper acclimation and installation techniques are followed.

How do I prevent laminate floor lifting in the future?
Prevent lifting by controlling indoor humidity, allowing the laminate to acclimate before installation, maintaining expansion gaps, and promptly addressing any water spills or leaks.

Is it necessary to remove the baseboards when fixing laminate floor lifting?
Removing baseboards is often necessary to access expansion gaps and properly reinstall or adjust the laminate flooring to prevent further lifting.

What tools are required to fix laminate floor lifting?
Common tools include a tapping block, pull bar, rubber mallet, adhesive (if needed), spacers, and a moisture meter to check subfloor conditions.
fixing laminate floor lifting requires a systematic approach that addresses the root causes such as moisture, improper installation, or inadequate expansion gaps. Identifying the source of the problem is crucial before undertaking repairs to prevent recurring issues. Common solutions include adjusting or reinstalling affected planks, ensuring proper acclimation of the flooring material, and maintaining adequate spacing around the perimeter to allow for natural expansion and contraction.

Additionally, controlling environmental factors like humidity and temperature plays a significant role in preserving the integrity of laminate flooring. Using moisture barriers and ensuring subfloor dryness can mitigate the risk of lifting caused by water damage. When repairs involve replacing damaged planks, it is essential to use compatible materials and follow manufacturer guidelines to maintain the floor’s durability and appearance.

Ultimately, proactive maintenance combined with timely intervention can extend the lifespan of laminate flooring and enhance its aesthetic appeal. Consulting with flooring professionals or referring to manufacturer recommendations can provide further assurance of a successful repair. By addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes, homeowners can effectively restore a level, secure, and visually pleasing laminate floor surface.

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.