Laminate floors usually pop up or buckle when there is a lack of space to expand, or because of moisture damage. Because laminate is a floating floor, it naturally expands and contracts with temperature and humidity changes.
Apply a small amount of wood glue to the edges of the lifted planks and gently press them back into place. Use a tapping block and hammer to ensure a snug fit. Wipe away excess glue immediately with a damp cloth.
General Guidance for Repairing Swollen Laminate Flooring
Use wood glue or caulk to fill any expansion gaps: if there are any gaps between the laminate flooring planks, only a small amount of wood glue or caulk is needed to provide a barrier against water seeping into the seams.
When laminate flooring keeps popping out during installation, it usually means the locking mechanism isn't fully engaged, the subfloor is uneven, or debris is blocking the joints.
Excess moisture
The moisture causes the wooden core in the laminate boards to swell, and this can cause the laminate flooring to bubble and lift.
To fix lifting laminate without replacing:
A squeaking and creaking floor can be an irritation, but is it something for homeowners to worry about or should laminate flooring creak? The answer is no, laminate floor creaking is not normal!
Some Common Mistakes When Laying Laminate Flooring
Securing laminate flooring relies on a "floating floor" installation method, meaning the planks lock to one another rather than being nailed or glued to the subfloor. This allows the floor to naturally expand and contract with temperature and humidity changes.
Laminate flooring typically lasts 15 to 25 years. High-quality, properly maintained planks can even exceed 30 years, whereas lower-end or neglected options may only last 10 to 15 years.
Laminate floor swelling sometimes recedes if the damage is minor or caught early. However, because standard laminate has a fiberboard core, severe water damage often causes permanent deformation.
While vinegar is a popular DIY cleaning solution, it's not recommended for laminate floors. Its acidic nature can dull the laminate's finish over time. Instead, opt for a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for laminate flooring to ensure it remains vibrant and undamaged.
Can swollen or warped wood floors be fixed? Yes, many can be saved, but it depends on the severity and how quickly you act. For minor cupping, professional drying is often enough to return boards to normal, sometimes with weights to help them flatten.
Apply weight to the floor: Once the area has started to dry, place heavy items, such as books, on top of the affiliated planks. This will help flatten them back into place while they dry. Apply heat to the planks: For planks that are still swollen, apply heat to the floor.
Whether you can put laminate over laminate depends entirely on what you are laminating.
Buckled floors can sometimes go back down if the damage is minor and moisture issues are addressed immediately. However, depending on the severity of the swelling and the flooring material, the boards may permanently warp, cup, or require replacement.
Laminate flooring problems generally stem from improper installation or moisture exposure. Common issues include peaking (buckling at the seams due to lack of expansion gaps), spongy or squeaky spots from uneven subfloors, and swelling caused by water seeping into the core.
In 2026, flooring trends revolve around warmth and natural textures, with cool, flat grays officially on their way out. The most popular colors include:
Your laminate floor is likely lifting for one of two main reasons: moisture damage causing the planks to swell, or an installation error where the floor doesn't have enough room to naturally expand and contract.
Vinyl flooring is perfect for high-traffic, moisture-prone areas. Its water-resistant, stain-resistant surface and easy maintenance make it ideal for bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens. Laminate works better in dry spaces, offering durability and a realistic wood look at a great price.
You should generally avoid using Murphy's Oil Soap on laminate floors. While the manufacturer notes it can be used if heavily diluted, laminate has a hard, non-porous finish. Oil soaps can leave behind a dull, cloudy film that is very difficult to remove and easily attracts dirt.
The healthiest flooring options for your home are those that are low-emitting, hypoallergenic, and free from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and toxic adhesives. The absolute best choices for indoor air quality and chemical sensitivity are solid hardwood, ceramic or porcelain tile, and natural linoleum.
Yes, you can use Dawn dish soap on laminate floors, but use it sparingly. Because dish soap is highly concentrated, just 1 teaspoon mixed with a gallon of warm water is enough to cut through grease. Using too much will leave behind a dull, sticky film.
Don't put laminate flooring in bathrooms, laundries, full ensuites, basements, sunrooms, or anywhere outdoors. The short answer comes down to two weaknesses in the product: the HDF (high-density fibreboard) core swells when it gets wet, and the click-lock joints expand and contract with temperature swings.