Why is my vinyl floor gapping?

Author: Jaunita Lehner  |  Last update: Monday, September 15, 2025

Improper Installation: Incorrect installation techniques, such as inadequate acclimatization or failure to leave proper expansion gaps, can result in gaps appearing over time. Subfloor Issues: An uneven or unstable subfloor can cause gaps in the LVP.

How to keep vinyl floor from separating?

To prevent vinyl plank flooring separation, it's important to take precautions when moving or placing heavy furniture. Use furniture pads or felt protectors under the legs of your furniture to distribute the weight evenly and minimize the risk of indentations or damage to the flooring.

How do you fix a bulge in vinyl flooring?

Found the lump under your vinyl flooring? Simply cut out the letter X shape. Start off small and gently just feel the object through. Make some slightly bigger incisions if needed. and just gently make it larger. depending on the size of the object. Like and follow for more flooring videos.

Why does vinyl flooring come apart?

Temperature Changes. 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.

Are gaps in vinyl flooring normal?

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring is a popular choice for its durability, affordability, and aesthetic appeal. However, like any flooring material, it may develop gaps over time due to factors such as temperature changes, humidity fluctuations, or improper installation.

How to Fix Gaps in Flooring!!! (Laminate, LVP, Engineered wood)

Why is my vinyl plank flooring coming up at seams?

Vinyl flooring can come up due to adhesive failure, moisture problems, temperature fluctuations, improper installation, or wear and tear over time.

How do you fix a swollen vinyl floor?

Start by drying out the affected area using fans or dehumidifiers. If the swelling is minor, you may be able to fix it by gently tapping the swollen boards back into place using a rubber mallet. However, if the swelling is severe, you may need to replace the damaged boards altogether.

How do you fix a bulging floor?

How to Fix Floor Bulging Upwards?
  1. Step 1: Identify the cause. ...
  2. Step 2: Remove any obstacles and Assess. ...
  3. Step 3: Address moisture issues. ...
  4. Step 4: Relieve pressure on the bulge. ...
  5. Step 5: Investigate the subfloor and joists. ...
  6. Step 6: Flatten the bulging area. ...
  7. Step 7: Secure the floorboards. ...
  8. Step 8: Replace damaged flooring.

Why does my vinyl flooring keep popping up?

The warmer and brighter it is, the more your vinyl plank material will expand, eventually forcing the planks up from their original positioning and releasing the glue on any self-adhesive versions. The good news is, you're not out of luck, there are ways to protect your vinyl planks from heat and sunlight.

Why is my flooring separating?

During humid months, wood floors may absorb moisture from the air, causing the planks to swell. Conversely, during dry months, the air lacks moisture, and the wood releases moisture, leading to shrinking. This cycle of expansion and contraction can result in noticeable gaps between the planks.

How do you fix a vinyl floor buckling?

If your floor is glued-down, gently peel the back area, scrape away the adhesive glue, and soften it with a hairdryer if required. Apply the new adhesive and put the vinyl tiles back into their position. Roll over the area with the roller to smooth out the buckled area and make sure proper adhesion of the adhesive.

Do I need spacers for vinyl flooring?

Click-Lock vinyls need an expansion gap to expand and contract as a floating floor. Use shims or spacers along the perimeter walls. Do check your subfloor with a level.

Why do gaps appear in laminate flooring?

Description: Laminate flooring expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity. If the environment fluctuates significantly, it can cause gaps to form between the planks. Impact: Gaps may appear during colder, drier months when the laminate contracts and close up again during warmer, more humid months.

Why is my vinyl plank flooring 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 vinyl floor bulging?

Sunlight & Heat

One of the major causes of buckling in vinyl plank flooring is expansion and contraction of the material.

How do you fix separated vinyl flooring?

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

How do you fix swollen laminate flooring without replacing it?

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.

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.

How to straighten out vinyl flooring?

You can try flattening the warped area by placing a heavy object on it or using a heat gun to soften and reshape the vinyl. If the issue persists, professional repair may be necessary.

What causes vinyl plank flooring to warp?

When a room sees constant and dramatic temperature changes, your vinyl plank flooring might expand or contract, which we call warping. If your floor is in direct sunlight, you could experience warping during installation. Similarly, if you use glue-down planks and there's water spillage, this can also cause warping.

Why is my vinyl flooring coming apart?

One of the most prevalent reasons for vinyl floor seam separation is changes in temperature and humidity. Vinyl flooring is particularly susceptible to expansion and contraction based on the ambient conditions in the room. During warmer months, high temperatures can cause the vinyl to expand, tightening the seams.

How do you fix vinyl flooring that is lifting up?

Hair Dryer Method: Gently warm the lifted area with a hairdryer to soften the adhesive. Press and Secure: Press the plank back down firmly and apply weight (e.g., heavy books) for a few hours. Seam Sealer: If needed, apply a small amount of seam sealer under the edge to re-secure it.

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