View Full Version : Beautiful Lock'n'Seal Laminate w/ bulge and squeaks
enobmud57
Jun 18, 2009, 09:13 AM
Jan '09 installed a lock'n'seal laminate floor from Sam's on concrete slab in kitchen and dining room. Followed instructions precisely and even allowed extra allowances on perimeters of floor. Installed heavy plastic sheeting over our 32 yr old concrete prior to installing floor. Spring comes. A large buckle showed up in one area and there are squeaks in other places. Yesterday we took up all moldings and took up the floor in the kitchen. Planks had grown in places to where they were flush against cabinet bases. Sawed off edges --allowed what we thought was plenty of space at edge -- no bulges, no squeaks -- beautiful as before. This morning I walked into kitchen. No bulges -- But plenty of squeaks. By the way. The A/C has been running since it is in high 80's plus with plenty of humidity, and we did not see any signs of moisture under or on the vapor barrier when we took up the planks. Help... Help.. What is going on here. The installed floor is absolutely beautiful ---but the squeaks are unacceptable.
ballengerb1
Jun 18, 2009, 12:55 PM
I am not sure what brand flooring you have but it sounds to me that it is soaking up humidity and swelling. Have you checked the packaging so you know your warranty info and phone numbers, I'd call the manufacturer
lamman
Aug 5, 2009, 04:26 PM
Some laminate will expand more than others. Do you Know the thickness? 7mm 8 or 10mm.
I installed this product for one of my clients and wasn't impressed.
How big of expansion joint did you leave? If you left the required space and it grew that much I would call Mr Sams club.
Good luck.
Laminate-flooring-installed.com
Lamman
ac101
Aug 5, 2009, 08:06 PM
Most laminates specify a 1/2 inch or so perimeter gap there is no way it should expand that much. If you feel it was installed correctly then definitely call manufacturer. How much gap did you leave ?(just curious). Don't know exactly what brand of floor this is but I think the humidity is your problem. If the manufactuer isn't any help you could always glue the planks together (if they are the type I'm thinking of) they sell a glue for laminate in the flooring section at home centers but a good wood glue will work. BEWARE once it is glued together you will destroy it if you try to seperate the planks in the future. This was recommended for laminate in kitchens at one time not sure with your brand. Post back and let us know what you think. GOOD LUCK, AC