When you invest in a new floor, the last thing you want is for it to start showing signs of wear and tear too soon. However, not all flooring issues are the result of damage or normal aging; sometimes, it’s simply a matter of a poor installation job. Whether you’ve noticed uneven surfaces, gaps between planks, or noisy creaks, the good news is that most poorly installed floors can be fixed with the right approach. In this blog post, the experts from Mikes Custom Flooring dive deeper into this topic.
Can a Poorly Installed Floor Be Fixed?
Yes, in most cases, a poorly installed floor can be repaired. The extent of the fix will depend on the type of flooring and the issue at hand.
Leveling an Uneven Floor
If your floor is uneven due to a subfloor issue, it may need to be leveled. This can be done by applying a self-leveling compound over the subfloor to create a smooth and even surface before installing the final flooring layer. In some cases, the flooring itself may need to be replaced if the unevenness is severe.
Fixing Gaps Between Planks
For hardwood, laminate, or engineered wood floors, gaps between planks can sometimes be fixed by re-gluing or tightening the boards. However, if the gaps are caused by expansion or contraction due to humidity changes, the planks may need to be reinstalled with proper expansion gaps to allow for natural movement.
Addressing Creaking Floors
Creaking floors are often the result of loose boards or inadequate subfloor installation. To fix creaking, the boards need to be secured, often by adding screws or nails. In some cases, adding a layer of plywood or underlayment beneath the existing floor can help stabilize it.
Fixing Peaking or Buckling
If your floor is buckling or peaking, it’s usually because the material wasn’t given enough room to expand. This often happens with hardwood or laminate floors when they are installed too tightly without proper expansion gaps. To fix this, the boards may need to be pulled up and reinstalled, leaving enough space for natural expansion.
Correcting Adhesive Issues
If the floor is lifting due to adhesive problems, the flooring may need to be re-glued or replaced. This is often the case with vinyl or some types of tile floors where the adhesive was improperly applied, or the floor wasn’t allowed enough time to properly bond to the subfloor.
Professional Help or DIY?
While some minor issues can be fixed by DIY enthusiasts, flooring installation errors often require professional expertise. If you have a significant issue with your floor, such as leveling the subfloor or addressing major gaps, it’s usually best to hire a professional flooring contractor. They can properly assess the situation and ensure the necessary repairs are done correctly.
Preventing Future Flooring Issues
To avoid future problems, make sure your new floor is installed by professionals who are experienced in the specific type of flooring you have. Proper acclimatization of materials, an even subfloor, and adequate expansion gaps are critical for the longevity of your floor.
Hardwood Floor Installation, Repairs, Refinishing & More in Charles Town & Eastern Panhandle of Berkeley & Jefferson Counties in WV | Winchester & Frederick County | Round Hill & Loudoun County | Berryville & Clarke County | Herndon & Fairfax County VA
In most cases, poorly installed floors can be repaired, saving you the cost of complete replacement. Whether it’s leveling an uneven surface, fixing gaps, or addressing creaking, the right repair can make your floor look and feel like new again. However, hiring the experts from Mikes Custom Flooring to handle the job ensures the problem is solved for good, keeping your home’s flooring functional and beautiful for years to come. Call Mikes Custom Flooring if you suspect your floors need repair today.
