Don’t Let Humidity Get the Best of Your Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is a popular choice for its durability, affordability, and ability to mimic the look of hardwood, tile, or stone. However, like any wood-based product, laminate flooring is susceptible to moisture damage.
Understanding how humidity affects laminate flooring is crucial for preventing problems and ensuring the longevity of your investment.
Laminate Flooring and Moisture: A Delicate Balance
Laminate flooring is constructed with a core layer made from high-density fiberboard (HDF), which is susceptible to moisture absorption. When exposed to excessive moisture, the HDF core can swell, warp, or even delaminate, causing damage to the flooring.
How Humidity Affects Laminate Flooring
Expansion and Contraction
Humidity fluctuations cause laminate flooring to expand and contract. In high humidity, the flooring absorbs moisture and expands, potentially leading to buckling or peaking. In low humidity, the flooring releases moisture and contracts, potentially causing gaps between the planks.
Warping and Cupping
Excessive moisture can cause the laminate planks to warp or cup, where the edges of the planks bend upward or downward. This distortion not only detracts from the floor's appearance but can also create tripping hazards and compromise the structural integrity of the flooring. Moisture can seep into the core of the laminate through spills, leaks, or high humidity, causing the wood fibers to swell and distort.
Delamination
In severe cases, prolonged exposure to moisture can cause the layers of the laminate flooring to separate or delaminate, leading to a warped or buckled appearance and compromising the structural integrity of the planks. This can occur due to flooding, leaks, or even excessive humidity, especially in areas like bathrooms or basements.
Delamination not only affects the aesthetics of the flooring but also reduces its lifespan and can create tripping hazards. It's essential to address moisture issues promptly and choose water-resistant or waterproof laminate options for areas prone to spills or humidity to prevent delamination and ensure the longevity of your flooring investment.
Mold and Mildew Growth
Damp conditions under laminate flooring can promote the growth of mold and mildew, posing health risks to your family and further damaging the flooring. These microscopic organisms thrive in moist environments and can release spores into the air, triggering allergies and respiratory issues. Mold and mildew can also cause discoloration, staining, and unpleasant odors, compromising the appearance and integrity of your laminate flooring.
In severe cases, mold growth can even lead to structural damage to the subfloor. Therefore, it's crucial to address any moisture issues promptly and ensure proper ventilation and moisture protection to prevent mold and mildew growth under your laminate flooring.
Preventing Moisture Damage to Laminate Flooring
Proper Acclimation
Before installation, acclimate the laminate flooring to the room's temperature and humidity for the manufacturer's recommended time. This allows the flooring to adjust to its new environment and minimize expansion or contraction issues after installation.
Moisture Barrier
A moisture barrier is a thin layer of material designed to prevent moisture from passing through it. In flooring installations, it's often used under laminate or wood flooring to protect them from moisture damage caused by spills, humidity, or concrete subfloors.
Vapor Barrier: Install a moisture barrier, such as a 6-mil polyethylene sheet, over concrete subfloors to prevent moisture from seeping up into the laminate.
Underlayment with Moisture Protection: Choose an underlayment with a built-in moisture barrier for added protection.
Proper Installation
Expansion Gaps: Leave appropriate expansion gaps around the perimeter of the room and at transitions to allow for natural expansion and contraction of the flooring.
Avoid Wet Installation Methods: Avoid using wet adhesives or excessive water during installation, as this can introduce moisture under the laminate.
Humidity Control
Maintain Consistent Humidity: Maintain a consistent humidity level in your home, ideally between 35-65%, to minimize expansion and contraction of the laminate flooring.
Use Dehumidifiers: In humid climates or during humid seasons, use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels in the air.
Spill Management
Clean Up Spills Promptly: Wipe up spills and messes immediately to prevent moisture from seeping into the seams of the laminate flooring.
Avoid Wet Mopping: Avoid using excessive water when cleaning your laminate floors. Use a damp mop with a laminate floor cleaner and wring it out thoroughly.
Choose the Perfect Laminate Flooring for Your Home with Flooring Attic
Humidity plays a significant role in the performance and longevity of laminate flooring. By understanding how humidity affects laminate and taking preventive measures, you can protect your flooring investment and ensure it maintains its beauty and functionality for years to come.
Contact Flooring Attic today to explore our vast selection of laminate flooring options and discuss your flooring needs. As part of Atlanta Flooring Design Centers, a Top 10 Independent Flooring Retailer with 14 locations and over 39 years of experience, we are your trusted source for quality laminate flooring and expert advice. Our knowledgeable team can guide you through the selection process, provide professional installation, and answer any questions you have about laminate flooring and moisture management.