Wood flooring is a classic and timeless addition to any home, but unfortunately, over time it can become damaged and show signs of buckling or cupping. This can be a frustrating and unsightly issue, so it is important to understand why it happens in order to prevent and fix it.
First, what does it mean when your wood floor buckles or cups?
Buckling occurs when wood planks separate from the subfloor. It appears as a type of swelling in the wood. Cupping, on the other hand, occurs when moisture in the wood makes the sides of planks appear raised while the center remains flat.
Now that you know what buckling and cupping is, what causes it?
Buckling and cupping can be caused by moisture, improper installation, and subflooring issues. We will explore these causes in more detail below as well as some tips to prevent and how to handle it if it occurs.
Causes of Buckling
Moisture Imbalance
The most common cause for wood floor buckling and cupping is moisture imbalance. This means that when the floor is exposed to too much moisture on one side and not enough on the other, it will start to buckle or cup. This can happen due to leaks, excessive spills, high humidity, or flooding.
Improper Installation
Another cause is improper installation. Wood flooring expands and contracts with changes in moisture levels. If the wood floor is not installed correctly with proper expansion gaps, it will be unable to move as it expands and contracts which can cause it to buckle or cup.
Subfloor Issues
If the subfloor is not level or flat, it can cause the floor to buckle or cup as well. Additionally, if the subfloor is not properly sealed, moisture can penetrate the surface and cause damage to the floor.
Preventing Buckling
Unfortunately, some causes of wood floor buckling cannot be helped, such as flooding, but there are steps you can take to prevent other causes. Follow the steps below to help prevent buckling and cupping.
Proper Installation
To prevent these issues, it is important to have the flooring installed by a professional who follows the manufacturer’s guidelines and ensures proper expansion gaps are in place. Be sure to do your research and hire a licensed professional with wood flooring experience.
Moisture Control
Keeping the humidity levels in your home consistent and within 35% to 55% can help prevent flooring issues. You can achieve this through the use of a dehumidifier or humidifier depending on the season and the weather.
Subfloor Preparation
Before installing the floor, the subfloor should be checked to ensure it is level and flat. If necessary, the subfloor should be repaired to avoid future issues. It should also be sealed to prevent moisture from penetrating the surface.
Fixing Your Floors if They Buckle
What if your wood floor does buckle or cup, though? Maybe you bought a house where the floor was not installed correctly, maybe you experienced a flood, or maybe there was some other mishap. You never know what’s in store for your floors.
If buckling happens, do not fret, try and stay calm. Depending on the cause of the issue, it could be an easy fix.
Sand and Refinish
If the floor is only slightly buckled or cupped, it may be possible to just sand and refinish the surface. This will remove the damaged surface and leave a smooth, flat floor.
Replace Damaged Boards
If the damage is more severe, it may be necessary to replace some of the damaged boards. Again, be sure to hire a licensed professional to ensure the boards are installed correctly to prevent future issues.
Add Support
If the subfloor is not level, you may need to add additional support. To do this, either install additional subfloor panels or shim the subfloor to ensure it is level.
In Sum
Wood flooring is a beautiful addition to any home but can be affected by natural elements and is susceptible to buckling and cupping. Remember to hire a licensed professional that specializes in wood floors for proper installation and try to keep moisture levels under control. With the right care and attention, your wood floor will last for many years, even a lifetime.
Wood Floors that Impress
For impeccable wood floor installation and hardwood flooring services you can count on, consider Cameron the Sandman. We have been installing, refinishing, and restoring hardwood floors in Michigan homes for many years. When you hire our hardwood flooring team, you can expect a job done right and done well. Hardwood floors do not disappoint, they are a luxury worth investing in and maintaining.