Lifting parquet: what to do and how to fix it

When the parquet in your home starts to lift, it doesn't just spoil the look of the room: it can be a sign of structural or environmental problems that need attention straight away. This article from Payresa, a parquet company in Malaga, is a detailed guide to identifying the causes, preventing future problems and knowing what to do if your parquet is lifting.

Table of contents

Why does parquet lift? The main causesHow to stop parquet lifting: essential tipsWhat to do if your parquet is lifting: practical solutionsQuick repairs: when is a temporary fix enough?Partial or full replacement: when is it needed?Choose the right materials to avoid future problemsFloating floorboards and their durabilityHow to choose the best parquet for humid climates 

Why does parquet lift? The main causes

Parquet can lift for several reasons, but most of them come down to changes in humidity, poor installation or low-quality materials. The most common causes are:

1. Excess moisture or leaks: sudden changes in humidity levels are parquet's number one enemy. They can be caused by leaking pipes, water spills that aren't dealt with or simply an overly humid environment.
2. Poor installation: if the parquet was laid without the necessary expansion gaps, the wood expands over time and pushes the boards up.
3. Adhesive quality: a poor-quality adhesive, or too little of it, can make the parquet lose its grip on the subfloor and lift.
4. Structural defects: irregularities in the base the parquet was laid on, such as uneven areas or unstable materials, can also cause the problem.
5. Temperature changes: extreme swings between heat and cold can make the wood contract or expand, causing it to lift.

How to stop parquet lifting: essential tips

Keeping parquet from lifting depends not only on proper maintenance, but also on following good practice from the moment it is installed:

• Control humidity: use a dehumidifier in areas where moisture tends to build up, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Keeping humidity stable throughout the home is key to extending the life of your parquet.
• Regular checks: inspect the floor regularly to spot early signs of wear, cracks or lifting.
• Correct installation: make sure whoever lays your parquet is experienced, uses high-quality adhesives and leaves the right expansion gaps.
• Protect the floor: use rugs in high-traffic areas and put felt pads on furniture legs to prevent scratches and damage.
• Clean it properly: use products designed specifically for wood and avoid soaking the parquet with water or harsh cleaners.

If you are thinking of renovating or installing new floors, consider materials such as Payresa's floating floorboards in Malaga, known for their durability and resistance to moisture.

What to do if your parquet is lifting: practical solutions

Once the damage is done, there are several ways to tackle the problem depending on how serious it is, from small immediate repairs to replacing part or all of the parquet.

Quick repairs: when is a temporary fix enough?

In mild cases, such as small areas where the boards have lifted slightly, repairs can be quick and inexpensive:

• Re-gluing: carefully remove the lifted boards, clean off the old adhesive and apply a strong adhesive to fix them back down.
• Nails and pressure: in some cases, nailing the boards or weighing them down with heavy objects is enough to get them back into place.
• Sealants: if there are small cracks around the lifted areas, use a wood sealant to stop the problem getting worse.

Although these fixes can help, remember that they are temporary. If the parquet lifts again, a more thorough approach may be needed.

Partial or full replacement: when is it needed?

In more serious cases, where the lifting affects large areas or compromises the structure of the floor, it is better to go for a permanent solution:

• Partial replacement: if the problem is concentrated in one area, you can replace just the damaged boards. This is especially useful if you have spare material in the same design and colour.
• Full replacement: if the problem affects most of the floor, it may be time to install new parquet. At this point it is crucial to choose quality materials, such as floating floorboards, which are ideal for withstanding the local climate.

It's also worth asking the experts for professional advice on the type of floor that best suits your needs.

Choose the right materials to avoid future problems

One of the best ways to prevent parquet from lifting is to invest in quality materials from the start. Here are some recommendations:

Floating floorboards and their durability

Floating floorboards are an excellent choice for areas with high humidity, such as Malaga. Because they are installed without adhesive, the floor can expand and contract without lifting. In addition, high-quality laminate floorboards are designed to withstand everyday wear and keep their appearance for years.

How to choose the best parquet for humid climates

If you prefer traditional parquet, make sure you choose hardwood species treated against moisture. Oak and bamboo are popular options thanks to their natural resistance. It is also important to use waterproof finishes to protect the wood from accidental spills and ambient humidity.

Always consult local parquet specialists for personalised advice and to make sure your investment lasts.

In short, lifting parquet may seem like a complicated problem, but with the right knowledge it is entirely manageable. From identifying the causes to applying practical solutions and choosing the best materials, every step is crucial to keeping your floors looking good and working well.

If you are on the Costa del Sol, consider talking to experts in parquet in Benalmádena and parquet in Torremolinos such as Payresa for the best advice. Remember, a well-kept floor not only improves the look of your home, it also adds to its value and comfort.

With this guide, you are ready to face any challenge your parquet throws at you. If you found it useful, you may also like: “How to restore parquet without sanding: the alternatives”

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