Should LVP move when you walk on it?

Author: Mrs. Yvette Emard DVM  |  Last update: Tuesday, November 4, 2025

If the plank doesn't move or shift under pressure, it's a good sign that the installation is secure and stable. However, if you notice any movement or shifting, it's best to give the planks a bit more time to settle before walking on them.

Why is my vinyl plank flooring moving?

Higher than Normal Levels of Humidity and Moisture

Like you'd expect, it is the natural enemy of our floors, weakening the glue that holds down the planks, thus allowing them to move out of position.

Should floating floors move when walking on them?

Will it hurt that part of the floor is floated by part of it is nailed. Any ideas would help. A: All floating floors will move some as they are not solidly anchored to the floor. Usually this movement is very subtle and difficult to feel unless you are specifically looking for it.

Is it normal for LVP to bounce?

It's normal for laminate flooring to feel a little bouncy, especially when it's first fitted. In fact, a small amount of deflection can actually be a good thing – enhancing underfoot comfort and helping to absorb the impact of your steps.

Do LVP floors move?

Luxury vinyl flooring is susceptible to slight expansions and contractions in response to changes in moisture and humidity levels. An expansion gap permits the flooring to adjust without distortion. Neglecting to incorporate this gap can lead to damage, particularly if the floor expands significantly.

Determining the direction to lay/install Hardwood, Laminate, or Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring

How long does it take for LVP to settle?

In most cases, you can confidently walk on your floating vinyl plank flooring 24-48 hours after installation once the planks have had time to acclimate and settle. Of course, following the manufacturer's specific guidelines for your product is always a good idea to ensure a successful installation.

How much does vinyl plank flooring move?

Both luxury vinyl tile and vinyl plank flooring expand and contract when exposed to changes in weather, including temperatures. The expansion and contraction are only fractions of an inch, but this can make a difference.

Why does my floor bounce when I walk on it?

You are probably looking at a problem with the joists or the subfloor if your floors are bouncing or if objects on your shelves are vibrating when you walk by. The joists may not be strong enough to support the floor.

Is it normal for a vinyl to wobble?

It is very common to play a record and see the tone arm move up and down slightly due to some warping being inherent in most vinyl discs, however, if you are not experiencing any skipping, there shouldn't be an issue.

Why is my LVP not laying flat?

Vinyl plank flooring might not lay flat during installation due to a variety of reasons. These could include an uneven subfloor, improper acclimation of the planks to the room's temperature and humidity, or even the lack of an expansion gap around the room's perimeter.

Why is my floating floor moving?

If the underlayment is too thin or of poor quality, it can contribute to excess deflection and bounce. Inadequate support: Floating floors need proper support around the perimeter to prevent excessive movement and bouncing.

Is it normal for a floating floor to bounce?

Why does a laminate and wood floor 'bounce'? A laminate or wood floor will 'bounce' when there is a substantial gap between the underside of the wood/laminate plank and the sub-floor. The feeling of bounce is caused by the flooring moving downward when weight is applied (stepped on).

Is it better to glue or float LVP?

Floating vinyl plank floors are a great choice for bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and bedrooms. If you are laying floors in a large and expansive area, a glue down flooring application can provide more durability. Of course, glue-down applications are appropriate for smaller rooms as well.

What happens if water gets under LVP flooring?

Excess moisture and water under the flooring can deteriorate and soften vinyl planks. It can also lead to mold growth, setting up a potentially unhealthy indoor environment. Addressing surface-level moisture as well as any water damage under vinyl floors is essential to avoiding a worsening situation.

Does a floating floor settle over time?

It's not that bad of an idea; it also gives you a cause for redecorating and refreshing your interiors. Yes, floating floors will settle in time. Don't worry about it.

Why are my LVP floors separating?

Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause the vinyl planks to expand and contract, leading to separation. Placing heavy furniture or dragging sharp objects can result in separation. Wear and tear over time can cause vinyl plank flooring to separate.

Why is my vinyl skipping when I walk?

Uneven Surface

Record players are prone to vibrations and need to be placed on a sturdy, level surface. If you have a floating floor you may find that walking around can cause the record to skip through vibrations so be careful when dancing around!

How do you fix wobbly vinyl?

By exerting pressure on a warped record for an extended period, you can correct any warpage and hopefully make them flat again. Cleaning your vinyl records first will prevent debris from getting forced deeper into the grooves while it's under pressure.

Should vinyl move up and down?

Usually, a vinyl record that is in perfect shape spins smoothly. You can check your record by placing it on the turntable and spinning it. If you notice any wobble or the record moves up and down, that means it's likely warped.

Why does it feel like the floor is moving when I walk?

You might have vertigo because of an inner ear problem. The most common cause is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). BPPV occurs when the small crystals in your inner ear move out of place. These crystals help control your balance and affect the messages sent from your inner ear to your brain.

How much floor bounce is acceptable?

As a general rule, floor deflection should not exceed 1/360 of the span length. For example, a 10-foot span should not deflect more than 1/3 inch.

Is it normal for the floor to shake when walking?

A firm and level floor is a sign of a well-maintained home, but sometimes you might feel a bounce or springiness when walking. This isn't just a trivial matter or a common feature of old houses; it could be a sign of deeper structural problems.

Is it normal for vinyl planks to move?

The answer to this question is Yes. Although not often, vinyl plank flooring is known to expand or contract based on changes in its environment. Thankfully, there are ways of limiting and, in some cases, even preventing this expansion and contraction altogether.

Why is my LVP flooring lifting?

Excessive moisture is a primary culprit. If water seeps under the planks, it can cause the adhesive to weaken or the planks to swell, resulting in lifting. This is more common in areas like bathrooms, kitchens, or basements.

Does LVP really expand and contract?

Expansion and contraction is a fact of life

Vinyl is susceptible to temperature changes in its ambient environment which will cause the vinyl flooring to expand and contract with normal hot and cold fluctuations.

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