Laminate flooring is composed of wood-based materials that react to ambient environmental conditions. During periods of high humidity, the planks may expand; in dry, low-humidity winters, they may shrink. To accommodate this, installers must leave an expansion gap around the entire perimeter of the room. If the floor is installed too tightly against walls or heavy obstacles, the boards have no space to expand, which forces the joints to lift or the planks to buckle. Properly maintained indoor humidity levels help minimize these seasonal stresses on the locking joints.
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How do seasonal changes affect laminate floor board joints?
Seasonal changes in temperature and humidity cause the laminate board joints to expand and contract. Without proper expansion gaps at the walls, this natural movement can cause boards to peak, buckle, or create audible clicking sounds at the seams.