Laminate subfloor moisture testing often overlooked yet most critical when installing laminate flooring. Concrete slab and wood subfloor both have moisture limits. Failure to skip laminate subfloor moisture testing often results in laminate floor failures. Failure to Perform Laminate Subfloor Moisture Testing Buckling, cupping, squeaking, raised edges are but a few of … [Read more...]
Laminate Floor Peaking Cupping Buckling
Peaking Laminate floor peaking is a condition where the board edges are pushing together and peaking upward. End joint peaking, the plank ends are raised up forming a high spot at the joint. This condition is most visible in areas where lighting flows across the floor. End joint peaking can be a product, installation or site related issue. Floor Peaking … [Read more...]
Acclimation of Laminate Flooring
Acclimation requires conditioning of the flooring material at or near occupancy level. Most laminate floor manufacturers require the cartons of flooring to be acclimatized for 48 to 72 hours prior to installation. Check the installation instructions to see how they want the material stacked for installation and if the cartons are to be opened or left unopened. Not all … [Read more...]
Vapor Barrier Under Laminate Floor
A vapor barrier under laminate floor, required for most laminate flooring installed over concrete. This vapor barrier which is actually a vapor retarder helps to keep moisture vapor from entering into the laminate floor. Concrete substrate must be tested in accordance with the flooring manufacturers instructions. Excessive moisture can be found in a concrete slab of any … [Read more...]