What causes vinyl planks to buckle?

Author: Dr. Louisa Schamberger  |  Last update: Thursday, June 26, 2025

Vinyl will expand when exposed to heat and contract when the ambient temperatures are cooler. The expansion and contraction cause the flooring to shift and buckle. Planks that are closer to windows and exposed to constant fluctuation of heat and cold are more prone to buckling.

How do you fix buckling vinyl plank flooring?

If the floors are glue down, gently peel back the area buckling. Scrape away any existing adhesive that has failed, softening it with a hairdryer if necessary. Apply new adhesive and work the vinyl tile back into place. Roll over the area to smooth out the buckled area and ensure proper adhesion of the adhesive.

Why do vinyl planks buckle?

Moisture can seep into the planks, causing them to swell, warp, and buckle. This can occur if the planks were installed in a high-moisture area without proper moisture barriers or if there are leaks or spills that have penetrated the flooring. 3.

What is the life expectancy of vinyl planks?

Generally speaking, vinyl sheet flooring will last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, while vinyl plank and tile flooring will last 15 to 20 years. The thickness of its wear layer vastly impacts vinyl flooring's lifespan, so pay attention to this detail when purchasing your flooring.

Why is my vinyl plank floor warping?

If vinyl flooring is not installed correctly, it can lead to warping. Issues like uneven subfloors, inadequate adhesive, or insufficient acclimation time before installation can cause the vinyl to warp as it settles.

Will Vinyl Plank Flooring Buckle

Can warped vinyl be fixed?

Use Pressure

Then place two or more heavy objects (large books, for example) on top of the record, making sure the weight is evenly distributed across the entire surface. From there, it's all about patience and time. It might take several weeks or months to flatten out a severely warped record.

What are the negatives to vinyl plank flooring?

Firstly, it can be difficult to install and may require professional help. Secondly, vinyl plank flooring is not as durable as other types of flooring such as hardwood or tile. It is also prone to scratching and denting from heavy furniture or objects being dragged across the surface.

Does vinyl plank flooring devalue a home?

Does vinyl flooring devalue a home? It's possible. While vinyl plank floors are affordable and versatile, they might not boost your home's resale value like hardwood or tile would.

Can you fix vinyl plank flooring separating?

Side Plank Separation

Choose a vinyl flooring putty matching your floor color. Clean and vacuum the gap, allowing it to dry overnight. Apply putty using the nozzle, remove excess with a plastic putty knife, and wipe clean with a damp sponge. Follow putty drying instructions for a seamless finish.

Why does flooring buckle?

Buckling wood floors are a result of individual floorboards expanding and contracting typically due to moisture changes. All hardwood will expand and contract due to seasonal changes in most regions of the US. Usually, the floorboard changes are small and will reset to their original size and position.

Does humidity affect vinyl plank flooring?

Vinyl plank flooring has core components that help resist water damage, but they also fight warping, splitting, and buckling, even under intense humidity.

Why would vinyl floors buckle?

Vinyl will expand when exposed to heat and contract when the ambient temperatures are cooler. The expansion and contraction cause the flooring to shift and buckle. Planks that are closer to windows and exposed to constant fluctuation of heat and cold are more prone to buckling.

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.

Can you repair buckled flooring?

Repairs to Buckled Wood Flooring

Minimal buckling can even be repaired by just placing a heavy weight on the buckled area and forcing it to settle back into its space. You also need to ensure that area that is buckled is dry and have any excess moisture removed.

What is the life expectancy of vinyl plank flooring?

Maintenance and Longevity

In general, you can rely on vinyl flooring to last anywhere between 10 and 25 years. A lot of it comes down to how well you look after the flooring, but there are some other factors.

How much does it cost to install 1000 sq ft vinyl plank flooring?

The cost to install 1000 square feet of vinyl floors can range from approximately $3,500 to $11,000 or more, depending on the type of vinyl, labor costs, and subfloor preparation. This estimate includes both flooring material costs and installation costs.

Can one vinyl plank be replaced?

Yes, it is possible to replace just one vinyl plank; you can replace a damaged vinyl plank floor in a specific manner, regardless of whether it's glue-down, click, or lay-down flooring. Understanding how to replace a single vinyl plank is crucial, as it can save you time and money in the long run.

What destroys vinyl plank flooring?

Enemies of Vinyl Flooring
  • Dirt and Grit: Acting like sandpaper, dirt and grit particles can scratch the wear layer of the vinyl, especially at entryways and high-traffic areas. ...
  • Sharp Objects: Dropping sharp objects like knives or tools can puncture or gouge vinyl.

Is there a difference between vinyl plank and luxury vinyl plank?

So, what's the difference? Luxury vinyl planks are thicker and more durable than standard vinyl, making them ideal for high-traffic areas or homes with pets. They're also easier to install, as they can be clicked together like laminate flooring. Standard vinyl flooring, on the other hand, is thinner and less durable.

Does furniture leave dents in vinyl plank flooring?

Can heavy furniture cause permanent damage to vinyl flooring? Yes, if heavy furniture is not properly supported or moved, it can cause permanent damage such as deep indentations, scratches, and tears. Using protective measures like furniture pads, coasters, and sliders can help prevent this.

Why did my vinyl bend?

Remember that a vinyl record is fairly soft and fairly thin. Vinyl is also very sensitive to heat — in fact, heat and pressure are how records are made. A little too much of either of those and the grooves that make your music sound so sweet will soften and bend, which causes warping.

What does a warped vinyl look like?

The best way to spot vinyl warping is to pull your record out of its sleeve and take a close look. Hold it at eye level and check to see that it looks flat and even. Usually, you can see warping pretty clearly because of how thin vinyl records are. It might be obvious to see the curve or bent in any way.

Previous article
How to reduce noise in air handler closet?
Next article
What is the difference between Rheem and A. O. Smith?