Laminate floors may peel over time due to moisture or usage. To fix this, assess the damage, gather necessary tools and materials, and prepare the area.
Remove the damaged planks, apply the correct adhesive, and place new laminate pieces.
Proper care and maintenance can prevent further peeling.
This guide outlines the steps to repair peeling laminate floors.
Assessing the Damage
Before starting repairs, it is important to assess the extent of the peeling on the laminate flooring to decide on the correct repair method. The assessment should identify the size of the damaged area and how severe the peeling is, which can range from minor to extensive delamination, often due to different levels of moisture exposure.
Moisture is a common cause of peeling in laminate floors, stemming from spills, high humidity, or water entering the joints. Identifying the exact cause of peeling is essential for effective repairs and to prevent it from happening again. If moisture is the issue, addressing any leaks or environmental conditions causing excess moisture is crucial.
For minor, surface-level peeling, it may be possible to repair the laminate without replacing planks. For more severe damage, especially where the peeling reaches the core of the laminate, it is necessary to remove and replace the damaged planks.
During the damage assessment, it's also important to check for subfloor problems or installation errors that could have caused the peeling. Correcting the root cause is vital for restoring the floor's durability and appearance. Addressing these issues early on will help prevent future peeling and prolong the floor's lifespan.
Gathering Necessary Tools
To repair laminate flooring damage, assemble the necessary tools. A floor repair kit is essential, often containing specialized tools and materials. Use repair putty or wood putty to fill small chips or gaps, applying it with a putty knife and smoothing it with fine-grit sandpaper after it sets.
For plank replacement, use a circular saw for precise cuts and have spare laminate planks that match the floor. A rubber mallet can help install new planks without damage. Keep a damp cloth and a clean cloth on hand to clean the area before and after the repair to prevent dust and debris from affecting the repair.
Having these tools and materials prepared will facilitate an effective and careful repair, restoring the appearance of the laminate floor.
Preparing the Work Area
Prepare the work area by removing furniture and any items that may impede the repair of peeling laminate floors. Start by clearing the space of tables, chairs, and decorative pieces. Then, carefully take out the affected laminate planks to expose the underlying floorboards for repair.
The next step is to clean the area. Use a cloth to remove dust and debris from the floorboards. Ensure the area is clean and dry before continuing with the repair. Wipe the floor with a damp cloth, avoiding excessive water, and reach into edges and corners to remove any accumulated dust. If needed, apply a mild cleaning solvent and dry the area thoroughly.
A clean, dry, and obstacle-free work area is essential for successful laminate repair. Ensure no moisture or residue is left that could hinder the adhesion of new laminate. Once the surface is prepared, you can confidently move on to the repair process.
Removing Damaged Laminate
Prepare the work area before starting the removal of the damaged laminate planks to create a clean base for the new flooring. Start by identifying the damaged planks. Begin from the closest wall edge or threshold to access the affected planks. Use a circular saw to carefully cut the damaged laminate, adjusting the blade depth to the thickness of the laminate to preserve the subfloor.
Remove the cut laminate gently using a putty knife, avoiding damage to nearby planks. If necessary, replace large damaged sections with new planks, which may require disassembling the flooring to the damaged area for interlocking planks.
Examine the subfloor for moisture or damage after plank removal. Fix any subfloor problems before installing new laminate to prevent future issues.
Once the laminate is removed and the subfloor is repaired, you will have a ready base for new laminate installation.
Applying the Adhesive
Identify the area where the laminate flooring is peeling. Use a toothpick or a small stick to apply adhesive precisely under the surface of the laminate. Before applying the adhesive, make sure the area is clean, dry, and free of debris for a strong bond.
Apply the adhesive evenly and avoid using too much, as this can create a mess and affect the surface's appearance. Proper application ensures the floor remains functional and looks good.
Allow the adhesive to set as per the manufacturer's instructions after application. Place the laminate piece back down and press firmly to ensure a good bond.
Remove any excess adhesive immediately to maintain a clean finish. This approach will help repair the peeling area and maintain the laminate flooring's condition.
Replacing Laminate Planks
To replace laminate floor planks that are peeling, start by removing the affected planks carefully to prevent damage to surrounding flooring. Identify and gently lift the damaged planks. Address any underlying subfloor or moisture issues before installing new planks.
Prepare the area according to the manufacturer's instructions. Install the new planks, using a rubber mallet to tap them into place without damaging the locking mechanism.
Once installed, replace any molding and ensure all planks, including undamaged ones that were removed, are reinstalled for a uniform look.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Maintaining your laminate floor is key to preventing further damage and ensuring its longevity. Regular cleaning and immediate spill clean-up are vital to avoid moisture damage, which often leads to peeling.
Control home humidity levels to prevent the laminate from expanding and contracting, which can cause warping. Use a dehumidifier if necessary to maintain a consistent indoor climate within the manufacturer's recommended humidity range.
Place protective pads under furniture to prevent scratches. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning, using suitable tools and products.
Inspect your floors regularly for signs of wear or damage, and if found, seek professional repair services promptly.
