How to Troubleshoot Common Flooring Problems

 

Have you ever walked across your floor and heard a squeaky and annoying creak or stubborn stains that won't budge? Don’t worry. Our blog ‘How to troubleshoot common flooring problems' guide is here to help you troubleshoot and fix those common flooring problems recommended by the top flooring companies Dubai. We'll talk and help you with simple and practical tips to get your floors looking and feeling as good as new. So, let’s get started with.

Troubleshooting 6 Common Flooring Problems: A Step-by-Step Guide

They include : 

• Squeaky hardwood 

Who doesn't love the beauty of the hardwood flooring in their home? But you’ll absolutely hate it when it starts to squeak. But how do you fix the problem and rekindle your love for the hardwood flooring once again? Do you know wooden floors start to squeak due to the fact that they rub against one other ( or it could be its joints) when you step on them? So, if you can fill the gap between the floorboards and joints with shims or any construction adhesive. Besides, you can also work from the upper surface by lubricating the bards with sprinkles of powdered graphite, talcum, cornstarch etc. Make sure that it gets into the cracks so that it reduces the squeaky sounds while you step on it. Then, try vacuuming the excess powder on the floor. If you are looking for Flooring Dubai options, our Fusion Floors expert can help you out.

• Torn Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl is one of the most popular types of flooring people go for. The flooring is quite known for its resilient, durable, and affordable features. However, it tends to be vulnerable if you are not trying to be careful with it. For example, if you drop a kitchen knife or walk with high heels on the surface. However, the Vinyl floor is quite easy to repair. You can just remove the damaged tiles. But at the same time, patching a floor made from sheet vinyl can be quite complicated. You can fix a small tear with a drop of glue, but for a larger tear, you need liquid \seam sealer specially made for vinyl floors.

• Laminate Peaking

Peaking laminate is a common flooring issue where the laminate boards push against each other, noticeable hump or peak. It often happens due to improper installation or changes in humidity causing expansion. To troubleshoot this, first identify the cause and then fix it accordingly. If it's due to high humidity, try using a dehumidifier to reduce moisture. If it's installation-related, disassemble the affected area, trim the edges, and reinstall the boards properly, ensuring they have room to expand. This should resolve the peaking problem and restore a smooth laminate floor.

• Buckling Floors

Buckling in flooring is like when a rug lifts up at the corner, but on a larger scale. It happens when the floorboards start to separate from the subfloor, forming noticeable humps or waves. This usually occurs due to too much moisture or water damage. For instance, imagine a kitchen floor with a slow, undetected water leak that's seeped into the wood underneath. Over time, this moisture causes the floor to swell and warp, creating those raised areas. To fix it, you'd need to locate and stop the source of the moisture, then replace the damaged floorboards for a flat and safe surface.

• Colour Fading

Fading colours in flooring, let's say a hardwood floor, happen gradually over time due to exposure to sunlight and everyday wear and tear. The UV rays from sunlight can cause the wood's pigments to break, leading to a lighter appearance. To prevent this, use blinds or curtains to block direct sunlight during peak hours, which can significantly slow down the fading process. Additionally, area rugs or carpets can help shield high-traffic areas from wear and fading. Regularly cleaning and maintaining the flooring can also keep its colour vibrant and prolong its life.

• Cupping and Crowing 

Cupping and crowning in hardwood floors are like two sides of the same moisture-related problem. Cupping happens when the edges of floorboards curl upward, resembling a cup shape. Crowning, on the other hand, makes the centre of the boards rise higher than the edges, forming a sort of hill. Both issues often occur because of moisture imbalances – too much or too little. To troubleshoot, you need to fix the underlying moisture problem first. Then, if the damage is extensive, consider sanding and refinishing the floor to restore its flat and smooth appearance, making it both safer and more visually appealing.

If you are interested in knowing more about flooring problems and their fixes, reach out to our flooring experts at Fusion Floors. Fusion Floors is one of the premium flooring companies in Dubai offering flooring solutions including Hardwood, Vinyl Flooring, and engineered flooring Dubai.