When it comes to flooring in Phoenix, LVP (luxury vinyl plank) continues to be a top choice. It’s affordable, durable, and stylish. However, many homeowners in Peoria, AZ, experience issues with floors buckling. This common problem affects both older and newly installed flooring. Whether you’re dealing with buckling floors or looking to prevent future damage, understanding the causes is essential.
What Is LVP and Why Is It Popular in Peoria?
LVP stands for luxury vinyl plank. It mimics hardwood but offers better resistance to moisture. That’s why many homeowners choose LVP flooring in Phoenix and surrounding cities like Peoria. It’s easy to clean, affordable, and works well with different interior styles.
Still, like any flooring material, it has its downsides. One of the most common complaints is buckling.
What Does Buckling Mean?
Buckling occurs when the flooring lifts from the subfloor and creates uneven, raised areas. These bulges or ridges not only look bad but can become tripping hazards. If your floors are buckling, they’re reacting to changes in temperature, moisture, or installation problems.
Cause #1: Extreme Heat in Peoria, AZ
The Phoenix area sees intense summer heat. In Peoria, temperatures can soar past 110°F. Such high heat can cause LVP to expand. When LVP flooring in Phoenix doesn’t have enough space to expand, it starts to push against itself.
This pressure builds and eventually causes the floors to buckle. This is especially true in rooms with poor ventilation or large windows with direct sunlight.
Solution:
Use curtains, blinds, or UV window film. Maintain a consistent indoor temperature with air conditioning, especially during the summer months.
Cause #2: Improper Acclimation Before Installation
Many people don’t realize that LVP must acclimate to the room temperature before installation. This means the planks should sit in the room for 48-72 hours. Without proper acclimation, the flooring may react to sudden environmental changes after installation.
Solution:
Allow your LVP to adjust to the environment before installation. Professional installers, like those at Proline Flooring LLC, follow these steps carefully for all flooring in Phoenix.
Cause #3: No Expansion Gaps
LVP requires expansion space around the edges. These gaps allow the material to expand and contract with changing temperatures. Without them, the flooring has nowhere to go during expansion, resulting in buckling.
Solution:
Leave at least a ¼ inch gap around all walls and fixed objects. This small space makes a big difference.
Cause #4: Moisture and Humidity
Even though LVP is moisture-resistant, it’s not moisture-proof. Peoria homes with poor ventilation, plumbing leaks, or concrete subfloors can trap moisture. This buildup weakens adhesives and causes the planks to lift or shift.
Solution:
Use moisture barriers on concrete subfloors. Regularly check for leaks in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry areas. A dehumidifier can also help regulate indoor humidity.
Cause #5: Poor LVP Installation Techniques
Unfortunately, not all flooring installations are equal. Incorrect use of adhesive, uneven subfloors, or rushed jobs can cause major problems. Even floating floor systems require level surfaces and precise fitting.
Solution:
Choose an experienced professional. At Proline Flooring LLC, we ensure that every flooring option in Phoenix meets industry standards and local needs in Peoria.
Cause #6: Subfloor Problems
LVP requires a clean, flat, and stable subfloor. Dust, debris, or old adhesive can cause improper bonding. Also, uneven subfloors make planks shift over time, leading to buckling.
Solution:
Inspect and prepare the subfloor carefully. Sand down high spots and fill in low spots. A solid foundation prevents future issues.
Cause #7: Heavy Furniture Without Pads
Furniture and appliances placed directly on LVP can restrict its natural movement. Heavy items may pin down the floor, stopping it from expanding freely.
Solution:
Use felt pads or furniture coasters. Rearranging furniture occasionally also helps relieve pressure points.
Cause #8: Sunlight and UV Exposure
Rooms with large windows often experience flooring damage due to direct sunlight. Over time, LVP may fade, warp, or buckle if it’s exposed daily to UV rays.
Solution:
Install window treatments like blackout curtains or solar shades. Consider UV-protective coatings on windows.
Cause #9: Water Damage
While LVP resists spills, excessive water exposure, like flooding or burst pipes, can still harm it. Water can seep underneath planks and affect the adhesive or cause mold growth.
Solution:
Clean spills quickly. In flood-prone areas, consider waterproof LVP or vinyl tile alternatives. Regular plumbing checks can prevent surprises.
Signs Your LVP Is Buckling
Watch for these early indicators:
- Raised edges or corners
- Soft spots when walking
- Gaps between planks
- Clicking sounds while stepping
If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to act fast.
What Should You Do If Floors Are Buckling?
- Identify the source. Look for moisture, heat, or furniture pressure.
- Remove the affected planks. Don’t wait—replace or refit them quickly.
- Fix underlying issues. Whether it’s moisture or improper spacing, solve the root problem.
- Contact professionals. ProLine Flooring LLC can assess and restore your flooring in Phoenix or Peoria.
How to Prevent LVP Buckling in Peoria, AZ
Living in a hot, dry region like Peoria makes prevention more important than ever. Use these tips:
- Acclimate planks before installation
- Maintain expansion gaps
- Control indoor temperature
- Avoid prolonged moisture exposure
- Invest in professional installation
Remember, good planning leads to longer-lasting floors.
Why Choose Proline Flooring LLC?
At Proline Flooring LLC, we specialize in high-quality flooring in Phoenix and surrounding cities like Peoria. Our team knows the desert climate and how it affects materials. We only use proven installation techniques and help homeowners choose the best flooring solutions for their homes.
From LVP to hardwood to tile, we stand by our work. We don’t just install flooring, we help you protect your investment.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the causes of LVP floor buckling will help you protect your home. With the extreme heat of Peoria, proper installation and maintenance are crucial. Whether you’re upgrading your floors or fixing an issue, always choose a trusted local expert.
Let Proline Flooring LLC handle your flooring in Phoenix the right way, so you don’t have to worry about buckling tomorrow.
