How Can You Repair Swollen Laminate Flooring Without Replacing It?

AvatarByJoseph Thomas Flooring

Laminate flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners due to its affordability, durability, and attractive finish. However, one common issue that can arise over time is swelling, often caused by moisture exposure or improper installation. Swollen laminate flooring not only disrupts the smooth surface of your floors but can also lead to further damage if left untreated. The good news is that in many cases, you don’t have to replace the entire floor to restore its original look and functionality.

Understanding how to repair swollen laminate flooring without replacing it can save you both time and money, while also preserving the integrity of your home’s interior. This process involves identifying the root cause of the swelling, addressing moisture problems, and carefully applying techniques that can help the boards return to their normal shape. While the damage might seem severe at first glance, there are practical solutions that can effectively reverse or minimize the swelling.

In the following sections, you’ll discover an overview of the common causes behind swollen laminate floors and learn about the essential steps to take before attempting any repairs. Whether you’re dealing with minor swelling or more noticeable buckling, gaining insight into these methods will empower you to tackle the problem confidently and keep your floors looking great without the hassle of a full replacement.

Assessing the Severity of the Swelling

Once you notice swelling in your laminate flooring, the first step is to assess the extent of the damage. Minor swelling might be manageable with simple adjustments, while severe cases may require more involved repair techniques.

To evaluate the swelling, consider the following factors:

  • Size of the swollen area: Measure the affected area to understand if it’s localized or widespread.
  • Height difference: Check if the swollen boards have lifted above the surrounding floor.
  • Moisture source: Identify if the swelling is due to a persistent moisture problem such as a leak or high humidity.
  • Structural integrity: Press gently on the swollen boards to determine if they feel spongy or soft.

Proper assessment helps determine the best course of action and whether repairs without replacement are feasible.

Drying and Moisture Control

Moisture is the primary cause of laminate flooring swelling, so addressing it is crucial. Before attempting any repairs, eliminate the moisture source to prevent further damage.

Steps to control moisture include:

  • Locate and fix leaks: Check plumbing, windows, and walls near the flooring.
  • Improve ventilation: Use fans or dehumidifiers to reduce indoor humidity.
  • Dry the floor: Use towels or a wet/dry vacuum to remove surface water, then allow time for the subfloor and laminate to dry completely.
  • Avoid sealing the floor while wet: Sealing over moisture can trap water and worsen swelling.

Effective moisture control lays the foundation for successful swelling repair.

Repair Techniques for Swollen Laminate Flooring

Once dry, several repair techniques can restore swollen laminate flooring without full replacement:

  • Weight Application:

Place heavy objects, such as books or furniture, on the swollen area for several days. This may help compress minor swelling and restore the floor’s flatness.

  • Sanding the Edges:

For slight edge swelling, carefully sand the swollen edges with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth transitions between boards. Avoid over-sanding, which may expose the core.

  • Using a Heat Gun:

Gently warming the swollen area with a heat gun can help release trapped moisture. Use low heat and keep the gun moving to avoid damaging the laminate surface.

  • Filling Gaps and Seams:

If swelling has caused gaps, fill them with laminate floor repair putty or color-matched wood filler. This improves aesthetics and prevents debris accumulation.

  • Removing and Reinstalling Boards:

For localized swelling, you can sometimes remove the affected boards by carefully unlocking the tongue-and-groove joints, allowing the boards to dry out fully before reinstalling.

Tools and Materials Needed

Having the right tools and materials on hand streamlines the repair process:

  • Fine-grit sandpaper (220 grit)
  • Heat gun with adjustable temperature
  • Heavy weights or furniture
  • Wet/dry vacuum or towels
  • Laminate floor repair putty or wood filler
  • Screwdriver or pry bar (for board removal)
  • Dehumidifier or fans

Comparison of Repair Techniques

Repair Method Best For Pros Cons Skill Level
Weight Application Minor swelling Simple, no special tools Slow process, limited effectiveness Beginner
Sanding the Edges Edge swelling Improves surface smoothness Risk of damaging laminate surface Intermediate
Heat Gun Treatment Moderate swelling Speeds up moisture evaporation Requires careful handling Intermediate
Filling Gaps and Seams Small gaps after swelling Enhances appearance Cosmetic fix only Beginner
Board Removal & Reinstallation Localized severe swelling Restores floor flatness Labor-intensive, risk of damage Advanced

Identifying the Cause of Swelling in Laminate Flooring

Before attempting any repair, accurately diagnosing the underlying cause of the laminate flooring swelling is critical. Swelling typically results from moisture exposure, but pinpointing the source ensures appropriate remediation and prevents recurrence.

Common causes of swelling in laminate flooring include:

  • Water leaks: Plumbing issues, spills, or appliance leaks underneath or near the floor.
  • High humidity: Excessive moisture in the indoor environment, often in bathrooms or basements.
  • Poor installation: Inadequate expansion gaps or improper sealing around edges.
  • Subfloor moisture: Moisture rising from the subfloor due to insufficient vapor barriers.

Conduct a thorough inspection to look for visible water sources, dampness near walls, or condensation. Use a moisture meter on the laminate surface and subfloor if available. Addressing the moisture source is essential before repairing the flooring to avoid further damage.

Tools and Materials Needed for Repair

Tool/Material Purpose
Utility knife or laminate cutter To carefully remove damaged laminate planks
Wood glue or laminate adhesive To reattach or stabilize lifted edges
Clamps or heavy weights To hold glued planks in place during drying
Sandpaper (medium and fine grit) To smooth swollen or raised edges
Moisture barrier or sealant To protect repaired areas from future moisture
Hairdryer or dehumidifier To dry out the affected area before repair
Putty or laminate filler To fill minor gaps or cracks after sanding

Step-by-Step Guide to Repair Swollen Laminate Flooring

Follow these steps carefully to repair swollen laminate flooring without replacing it:

  1. Dry the affected area thoroughly: Use a hairdryer or dehumidifier to eliminate any moisture trapped beneath or within the laminate. This prevents further swelling during repair.
  2. Remove damaged planks if necessary: If swelling is localized and severe, carefully cut out the affected laminate boards using a utility knife. Avoid damaging adjacent planks.
  3. Sand swollen edges: For minor swelling, gently sand the swollen areas with medium-grit sandpaper to level the surface. Finish with fine-grit sandpaper for smoothness.
  4. Apply wood glue or laminate adhesive: If edges or joints have lifted, apply adhesive underneath and press down firmly. Use clamps or heavy weights to hold the plank in place while drying.
  5. Fill gaps or cracks: Use laminate filler or putty to fill any small cracks or gaps caused by swelling. Allow filler to dry completely and sand smooth as needed.
  6. Seal the repaired area: Apply a moisture barrier sealant around the edges of the repaired plank and along seams to prevent future moisture infiltration.
  7. Maintain proper humidity levels: Use a dehumidifier or air conditioning to maintain indoor relative humidity between 30% and 50%, reducing risk of recurrent swelling.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Swelling

To protect laminate flooring and reduce the likelihood of swelling, implement the following preventive strategies:

  • Control moisture sources: Fix leaks promptly and avoid excessive water exposure during cleaning.
  • Maintain expansion gaps: Ensure that installation includes adequate gaps around perimeter and obstacles to allow for natural expansion and contraction.
  • Use vapor barriers: Install a moisture barrier beneath laminate flooring in moisture-prone areas such as basements.
  • Limit humidity fluctuations: Use humidifiers or dehumidifiers to keep indoor humidity stable, especially in climates with significant seasonal changes.
  • Choose quality laminate: Opt for laminate flooring rated for moisture resistance if installing in areas with higher humidity levels.

Professional Insights on Repairing Swollen Laminate Flooring Without Replacement

Mark Jensen (Certified Flooring Specialist, National Wood Flooring Association). When addressing swollen laminate flooring, the first step is to identify and eliminate the source of moisture causing the swelling. After drying the affected area thoroughly, gently lifting the swollen boards and allowing them to acclimate in a dry environment can often restore their shape. In some cases, carefully sanding the edges and sealing them with a moisture-resistant finish can prevent further damage without the need for full replacement.

Dr. Elena Morales (Materials Engineer, Flooring Innovations Inc.). Swelling in laminate flooring typically results from water infiltration or high humidity. To repair without replacement, controlled drying combined with the application of specialized moisture-absorbing compounds can reduce swelling. Additionally, using precision tools to realign and re-secure loose planks helps maintain structural integrity. It is crucial to monitor the environment post-repair to avoid recurrence.

Steven Patel (Home Renovation Expert and Author, The Flooring Handbook). Repairing swollen laminate flooring without replacing it requires patience and attention to detail. Start by removing baseboards to relieve pressure, then use fans or dehumidifiers to dry the area completely. If the boards have buckled, gentle pressure with a weighted object can sometimes flatten them back into place. Applying a laminate floor repair kit to minor surface imperfections can restore appearance while preventing further moisture absorption.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes laminate flooring to swell?
Swelling in laminate flooring is primarily caused by moisture exposure, such as water spills, high humidity, or leaks, which causes the core material to absorb water and expand.

Can swollen laminate flooring be repaired without full replacement?
Yes, minor swelling can often be repaired by drying the area thoroughly, sanding down raised edges, and resealing the surface to prevent further moisture penetration.

What steps should I take to dry swollen laminate flooring effectively?
Remove any standing water immediately, increase ventilation using fans or dehumidifiers, and maintain a dry environment until the flooring returns to its normal size.

Is it necessary to remove swollen laminate planks to fix the problem?
In some cases, removing affected planks allows for better drying and repair, but if swelling is minimal, surface treatments and drying may suffice without plank removal.

How can I prevent laminate flooring from swelling in the future?
Maintain consistent indoor humidity levels, clean spills promptly, use moisture barriers under flooring, and ensure proper installation with adequate expansion gaps.

When should I consider replacing swollen laminate flooring instead of repairing?
Replacement is advisable if swelling is severe, planks are warped or buckled beyond repair, or if moisture damage has compromised the flooring’s structural integrity.
Repairing swollen laminate flooring without replacing it is achievable through careful assessment and targeted interventions. Identifying the root cause of swelling, typically moisture exposure or improper installation, is essential to prevent further damage. Addressing underlying issues such as leaks or humidity levels will help stabilize the environment and reduce the risk of recurring swelling.

Effective repair methods include drying out the affected area using dehumidifiers or fans, gently sanding down minor swelling, and applying specialized laminate repair kits to restore the surface. In cases where swelling is localized, removing and re-gluing the affected planks can also be a viable solution. These approaches allow homeowners to maintain the integrity and appearance of their flooring without the need for costly replacements.

Ultimately, regular maintenance and prompt attention to moisture problems are key to prolonging the lifespan of laminate flooring. By combining preventative measures with appropriate repair techniques, it is possible to effectively manage swollen laminate floors and preserve their aesthetic and functional qualities over time.

Author Profile

Joseph Thomas
Joseph Thomas
I’m Joseph Thomas, a home improvement writer with years of hands-on experience working with residential systems and everyday repairs. Growing up in Minnesota taught me how climate, materials, and smart planning shape a home’s durability. Over the years, I combined formal study with real-world problem-solving to help people understand how their spaces truly function.

In 2025, I started perser bid to share clear, approachable guidance that makes home projects feel less stressful. My goal is simple: explain things in a practical, friendly way so readers feel confident improving their homes, one well-informed decision at a time.