In my years of installing laminate floors, I’ve seen just about every problem under the sun—but few things frustrate homeowners more than planks that start bubbling out of nowhere. One day, your floor looks flawless; the next, it’s puffed up like a sponge, leaving your carefully planned room looking less than perfect. And let me tell you, trying to ignore it is like trying to sweep water under the rug—it never ends well.
So, why does laminate flooring bubble? It’s a question I get asked all the time by DIYers and homeowners alike. The answer isn’t always straightforward because several factors can contribute, from moisture sneaking in under the planks to improper installation or even subfloor problems. In fact, flooring industry experts agree that moisture infiltration—whether from leaks, spills, or high humidity—is the leading cause of laminate bubbling, responsible for the majority of cases I see on the job. Understanding the “why” is half the battle, because once you know the causes, you can take steps to fix it—and more importantly, prevent it in the first place.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the most common reasons laminate floors bubble, how to spot the signs early, practical solutions for both minor and major issues, and my top tips for keeping your floors looking smooth and pristine. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll have a solid understanding of what’s going on beneath your feet and how to nip any bubbling problems in the bud before they cost you a fortune.
Common Causes of Laminate Flooring Bubbling
When it comes to laminate floors, bubbling doesn’t just appear out of thin air. In my experience, most issues can be traced back to a few recurring causes. Understanding them is crucial, because a stitch in time saves nine—addressing problems early can prevent costly repairs down the road.
Moisture and Water Damage
One of the biggest culprits I see in my work is moisture. Laminate flooring isn’t completely waterproof—spills, leaks, or even high humidity can sneak under the planks and cause them to swell. For example, I once installed a beautiful laminate in a client’s kitchen, and a small leak under the sink led to bubbling along the edge of the floor within just a few days.
Tips to prevent moisture-related bubbling:
- Always use a moisture barrier or underlayment, especially over concrete or areas prone to spills.
- Wipe up spills immediately—don’t let water sit for hours.
- Keep indoor humidity levels stable; a dehumidifier can work wonders during humid seasons.
Improper Acclimation Before Installation
Acclimation is a step many DIYers skip, and it’s one of the fastest ways to end up with bubbles. In my experience, laminate planks need time to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity before installation. Skipping this step is like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole—it almost always leads to problems.
My advice:
- Store your laminate planks in the installation room for at least 48–72 hours before starting.
- Keep them flat, with the packaging slightly open to allow airflow.
- Check the room’s humidity and temperature; extreme conditions can prevent proper acclimation.
Subfloor Issues
Even the best laminate can’t overcome a problematic subfloor. Uneven, damp, or weak subfloors are like building a house on sand—they’ll lead to bubbling, warping, or gaps. I’ve seen laminate bubble over concrete that wasn’t fully cured or plywood that had hidden moisture spots.
Pro tips:
- Inspect the subfloor before installation: it should be clean, dry, and level.
- Use a moisture meter to check for hidden damp spots.
- Sand or level minor imperfections, or consider replacing seriously damaged sections.
Poor Installation Techniques
Finally, improper installation is a common factor. Tight seams, no expansion gaps, or skipping underlayment can all contribute to bubbling. Even small mistakes compound over time, and suddenly your smooth floor looks like it’s seen better days.
Tips from my experience:
- Leave recommended expansion gaps around the perimeter.
- Use proper click-lock systems or adhesive as instructed by the manufacturer.
- Follow the flooring brand’s installation guidelines to the letter—cutting corners here often comes back to bite you.
Takeaway:
Most laminate bubbling issues boil down to moisture, acclimation, subfloor, or installation errors. Spotting the root cause early helps you apply the right fix and keeps your floor looking sharp for years.
Signs Your Laminate Flooring Is Bubbling
Catching bubbling early can save you a lot of headaches. In my experience, many homeowners notice the problem only after it’s too late, which is why I always advise keeping an eye out for both visual and physical indicators.
Visual Indicators
The most obvious sign is raised or puffed-up planks. If you walk across the floor and notice sections that don’t sit flat, that’s a red flag. Other visual cues include ripples, warping along seams, or edges that appear swollen. Sometimes the color changes slightly around the bubbled area because moisture has affected the laminate’s finish. When I spot these signs during an inspection, I know it’s time to act fast before the damage spreads.
Physical Indicators
Beyond what you can see, your floor can tell you a story underfoot. Soft spots, unevenness, or a subtle creaking noise when you walk can indicate underlying bubbling. Water pooling in small areas, especially after spills, can also cause the laminate to lift. I’ve often encouraged clients to gently press along the planks—if they feel springy or uneven, that usually confirms bubbling underneath.
Why Early Detection Matters
In my experience, the sooner you identify bubbling, the easier it is to fix. Minor issues can often be addressed with moisture control or small adjustments, while letting it go untreated can lead to major repairs or plank replacement. Keeping your eyes and hands on the floor regularly is a simple yet effective preventative measure.
How to Fix Bubbling Laminate Flooring
Fixing laminate flooring bubbles depends on the severity of the issue. In my experience, some problems are minor and can be handled as a DIY project, while others require professional attention. The key is knowing which approach fits the situation.
Minor Bubbling – DIY Solutions
For small bubbles caused by moisture or minor installation errors, you don’t always need to replace planks. I’ve often used these methods to flatten minor bubbles without calling in the pros:
- Apply gentle heat: Using a hairdryer on low heat, warm the bubbled area while pressing it down with a flat board. The laminate often softens and settles back into place.
- Weight it down: Place a heavy book or flat object on the bubble for 24–48 hours. In many cases, the plank returns to its original position.
- Address moisture: Make sure the area is dry. I recommend using a fan or dehumidifier to eliminate lingering moisture before attempting repairs.
These fixes are like putting out a small fire before it spreads—they won’t always work on major bubbling, but they can save you a lot of hassle if caught early.
Major Bubbling – Professional Repairs
When bubbles are widespread, the laminate is warped, or the subfloor is compromised, it’s time to call a professional. I’ve seen floors where DIY attempts only made things worse, so knowing when to step back is crucial.
- Plank replacement: Remove the damaged plank and replace it with a new one, making sure the subfloor underneath is dry and level.
- Subfloor inspection: Bubbling often hides underlying issues. Professionals can check for moisture, unevenness, or structural damage.
- Proper installation: Sometimes bubbles result from gaps being too tight or improper underlayment. A professional ensures the new planks are installed correctly to prevent future problems.
Investing in a proper repair now often prevents headaches—and expenses—later. In my experience, trying to cut corners here is like robbing Peter to pay Paul; the problem usually comes back to haunt you.
Preventive Measures
Fixing bubbles is one thing, but preventing them is even better. I always tell clients: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
- Acclimate your laminate: Store planks in the room for 48–72 hours before installation.
- Control humidity: Use dehumidifiers or maintain stable indoor humidity to protect against moisture-related bubbles.
- Inspect subfloor and underlayment: Make sure everything is dry, level, and smooth before laying planks.
- Follow manufacturer guidelines: Leave recommended expansion gaps and use the right underlayment or adhesive.
By taking these precautions, you significantly reduce the risk of bubbles forming in the first place, keeping your floors smooth, durable, and beautiful.
Tips for Maintaining Laminate Flooring
Once your laminate is installed and bubble-free, proper maintenance is key to keeping it that way. Over the years, I’ve seen homeowners ruin otherwise perfect floors simply by neglecting basic care. A little attention goes a long way, and with these tips, you can keep your floors looking pristine for years.
Cleaning & Care Best Practices
Keeping your laminate clean doesn’t have to be complicated, but it’s important to avoid practices that can cause bubbling or warping:
- Avoid excess water: Mop with a damp—not soaking—cloth or microfiber mop. Standing water can seep into seams and cause swelling.
- Use recommended cleaners: I stick to pH-neutral, laminate-safe cleaners. Harsh chemicals or wax-based products can damage the finish.
- Protect high-traffic areas: Rugs and runners in hallways or entryways help prevent scratches and moisture accumulation.
A clean floor isn’t just a pretty floor—it’s a floor that lasts. I always tell clients that prevention starts with the basics.
Seasonal Maintenance
Temperature and humidity changes can stress laminate, causing minor bubbling if left unchecked. Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to keep seasonal fluctuations from wreaking havoc:
- Monitor humidity: Keep indoor humidity between 35–65%. In humid summer months, a dehumidifier helps; in dry winter months, a small humidifier can prevent the laminate from shrinking.
- Inspect after weather changes: After heavy rain or snow, check areas near doors and windows for moisture. Quick action prevents small problems from escalating.
Long-Term Protection
Finally, long-term care is about being proactive:
- Use furniture pads: Place pads under chairs, tables, and heavy furniture to avoid indentations or scratches.
- Lift rather than drag: Dragging furniture across laminate often causes micro-tears that can develop into bigger problems.
- Regular inspection: I recommend walking through your home monthly to spot early signs of bubbling, warping, or moisture issues. Catching problems early is always easier than fixing them later.
By combining proper cleaning, seasonal attention, and long-term protective habits, your laminate floors can stay smooth, beautiful, and bubble-free for years. In my experience, a little preventive care is worth its weight in gold.
