Laminate flooring is a favorite for many homeowners because it looks great and doesn’t take too much effort to maintain. But when you see parts of it bubbling up or peeling at the edges, it’s easy to feel frustrated. These small surface changes can make the floor look worn out or neglected, even if it’s still pretty new.
Bubbling and peeling are problems that tend to show up quietly at first. Over time, they get worse and affect more sections of the floor. And once they spread, fixing them gets more expensive and time-consuming. That’s why it helps to spot them early and know how they happen in the first place. If you see raised spots or areas that have started lifting, quick action can help fix the issue before it becomes a bigger headache.
Identifying Bubbling and Peeling in Laminate Flooring
The signs of damage in laminate flooring usually show up on the surface. Some are obvious, like bubbles or lifted corners. Others might take a little pressure or movement underfoot to notice. In either case, it’s important to stop and take a closer look.
Here’s what bubbling or peeling might look like:
– Raised or swollen spots in the middle of the plank
– Edges curling up or looking loose near the walls or seams
– A soft or spongy feel when you step over certain areas
– Small gaps appearing where the planks meet
Peeling can start at the corners or from the edges of any plank. It might look like a thin layer of the laminate top coat is coming off, or that the edges aren’t sticking down like before. Bubbling usually looks like a bump or blister where the surface is no longer flat. If you spot either one of these early, it’s a lot faster and cheaper to fix than waiting for the problem to spread.
These surface issues might build slowly, especially during the warmer months or after a spill that’s left unchecked. It’s similar to how a small crack in a windshield can grow if ignored. The sooner you spot the early signs, the easier it is to fix them with less hassle.
Common Causes of Bubbling and Peeling Laminate Flooring
Bubbling and peeling usually don’t happen overnight. They’re often the result of one or more underlying problems that go unnoticed when the flooring is installed.
Here are some of the most common causes:
1. Moisture
Water is one of laminate’s biggest enemies. A leak under an appliance, a spill that isn’t cleaned up right away, or steady humidity in the home can all lead to damage. Once moisture gets under the surface, it can cause the material to swell and separate from the layer below it.
2. Poor installation
Peeling and bubbles usually show up quicker when the flooring isn’t installed properly. If planks aren’t fully pressed down, or if the wrong adhesive is used, they never fully bond. Over time, any gap or pocket allows air or moisture to settle in, causing the floor to lift or peel.
3. Regular wear and tear
Kids running, pets digging their nails in, or furniture being dragged across the floor can all wear down the top layers over time. If the edges are already a little loose, regular movement puts even more stress on those weak spots.
An example of this is when a homeowner moved a couch across their living room during summer and noticed a few bubble-like circles in the laminate that weren’t there before. Turns out the area had absorbed moisture from a nearby sliding door, and the weight of the furniture just made the problem worse.
Knowing these causes helps prevent the issue from happening again later and gives better direction for what kind of fix will be needed. Some issues can be addressed quickly. Others might need a more involved repair, but pinpointing the source is the first step.
Quick Fixes for Bubbling and Peeling
Once you’ve spotted bubbling or peeling in your laminate flooring, the next step is figuring out how to fix it based on the extent of the damage. Some problems can be addressed on the surface, but in other cases, the plank may need to be replaced. Acting fast keeps the damage from spreading and helps keep the rest of the floor intact.
Here are a few simple techniques that can help:
1. Flattening minor bubbles
If a plank is bubbling because of trapped air or minor swelling, a careful pin prick can help. Using a fine needle, poke a tiny hole in the center of the bubble to release pressure. Then, gently press down on the area using a flat object. Just be cautious not to scratch or damage the top layer while doing it.
2. Re-gluing loose edges
For corners or plank edges that start peeling up, apply flooring adhesive under the lifted area. A thin, even layer works best. Press it firmly back into place with a flat object and lay something heavy over it for a few hours. This helps the adhesive bond and keeps the edge flush with the rest of the floor.
3. Replacing planks with severe damage
If the bubbling or peeling covers a large space or the core of the plank is swollen, replacement is the better route. Lift the damaged plank using a pry bar or similar tool and swap it out with a matching one. Make sure the new plank clicks in securely and aligns with the surrounding floor. Floorboards that don’t match perfectly or that absorb moisture easily can cause bigger issues later.
One homeowner we helped had water leak from a nearby hallway closet. A few days later, the planks right outside that area showed signs of peeling and a bubble near the seam. Instead of waiting for those spots to get worse, they addressed it right away and only had to replace two planks instead of several.
Maintaining Laminate Flooring to Prevent Future Issues
Good habits keep problems from popping up again. Laminate might look like real wood, but it doesn’t hold up the same way if exposed to water or heavy wear. Giving it the right care can make a big difference in how long it lasts and how nice it looks.
Try this approach to prevent bubbling and peeling from happening again:
– Clean up spills as soon as they happen to prevent water from seeping through
– Use a dry mop or lightly damp cloth for daily cleaning and avoid soaking the floor
– Keep indoor humidity in check with a dehumidifier, especially in warmer months
– Use felt pads under furniture legs to avoid friction and surface damage
– Avoid steam mops or overly wet cleaning tools that push moisture into the seams
– Walk the room every few months and check for hidden trouble spots you can catch early
Regular inspections help you stay one step ahead. If you feel a soft spot underfoot or notice a corner lifting, it’s worth getting it checked. It’s easier to refasten or replace one edge than to rip out a whole section later.
Keep Your Laminate Floors Looking Great
Dealing with bubbling or peeling laminate can feel like a hassle, but simple fixes can make a big difference. Catching issues early and understanding what’s driving the damage gives you a better shot at solving the problem without too much disruption. Whether it’s a single bubble or a peeling plank, these types of problems don’t usually fix themselves. What starts as a small spot can quickly turn into a larger repair if ignored.
The right kind of maintenance also plays a major role. When floors are clean, dry, and looked after, they hold their shape and finish much longer. You don’t need fancy tools or intense effort. Just some regular attention and a little care when it counts. Whether you’re protecting a new floor or trying to save your current one, these easy routines and fixes can help it last longer and look good day after day.
If your floors are starting to show signs of wear, now’s a great time to explore how laminated flooring can bring both style and function back into your space. At California Flooring Service, Inc., we’re proud to offer expert solutions that help keep your home looking its best. To see more options that pair durability with design, take a look at our selection of laminated flooring.