Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring in Carson City, NV is a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability, aesthetic appeal, and water resistance. However, like any flooring, it can experience issues over time. One common problem is lifting, where the planks start to come loose from the subfloor.
Explore how to fix luxury vinyl flooring that is lifting, and get step-by-step solutions on how to get your floors looking seamless again.
Why is my luxury vinyl plank flooring lifting?
There are several common reasons why your LVP flooring might be lifting:
Moisture:
Excess moisture is a major culprit. If your subfloor wasn't properly prepared or moisture seeped in from spills or humidity, it can weaken the adhesive and cause the planks to lift.
Poor installation:
Improper installation techniques, such as not leaving enough expansion gaps or using the wrong adhesive, can lead to lifting over time.
Temperature fluctuations:
Drastic temperature changes can cause LVP to expand and contract, putting stress on the adhesive bond.
Heavy traffic:
High foot traffic in certain areas can gradually wear down the adhesive, leading to lifting planks.
How to fix lifting LVP
The solution to lifting LVP depends on the extent of the problem and the cause. Here are the most common methods:
Method 1: reactivate the adhesive (minor lifting)
- Heat: If the planks are only slightly lifted, you can try reactivating the adhesive. Use a hairdryer on low heat to warm the affected area gently.
- Pressure: Once the adhesive is warm, press down firmly on the plank and hold it in place for a few minutes. You can use a heavy object like a book to apply consistent pressure.
- Seal: If the plank stays down after the adhesive cools, you can seal the edges with a seam sealer specifically designed for LVP.
Method 2: re-glue (moderate lifting)
- Lift the Plank: Carefully lift the affected plank. If it's a floating floor (not glued down), this should be relatively easy. If it's glued, you may need a putty knife or scraper to loosen it.
- Clean: Clean the underside of the plank and the subfloor, removing any debris or old adhesive.
- Apply Adhesive: Apply a thin layer of LVP-specific adhesive to both surfaces, following the manufacturer's instructions.
- Replace: Carefully replace the plank, pressing it down firmly and holding it in place.
- Seal: Seal the edges with seam sealer.
Method 3: replace (extensive lifting or damage)
- Remove: Remove the damaged or severely lifted planks.
- Prepare Subfloor: Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Address any moisture issues before proceeding.
- Install New Planks: Install new planks, matching the pattern and direction of the existing flooring.
- Seal: Seal all seams with seam sealer.
Preventing future lifting
Control Moisture: Keep your floors dry and address any leaks or spills promptly. Use a dehumidifier in humid environments.
Maintain Temperature: Try to keep your home's temperature relatively stable, especially during extreme weather.
Use Furniture Pads: Place felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratching and reduce wear on the flooring.
Regular Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum regularly to prevent dirt and debris from building up and damaging the flooring.
Visit Tile Outlet for quality luxury vinyl flooring in Carson City, NV
If you're struggling with lifting luxury vinyl plank flooring, don't hesitate to reach out to the experts at Tile Outlet. We have over 15 years of experience serving the Carson City, Carson Valley, and Lake Tahoe areas, providing top-notch service, products, and expertise. Our team can help you diagnose the issue, recommend the best solution, and even assist with repairs or replacements. Visit our showroom or contact us today!
