Fix a Bubble in Vinyl or Laminate Flooring

Bubbles in floating floors usually mean the room is too humid, or the planks weren't allowed to acclimate before install. Easy fix on small bubbles.

Difficulty: Medium Time: 30 min Cost: $5

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1

Glue-down vinyl: slit and inject

Slice the bubble lengthwise with a utility knife along the grain. Squeeze a small amount of vinyl adhesive into a syringe, inject under the bubble through the slit.
2

Press it flat

Roll firmly with a rolling pin or J-roller from the edges toward the slit, pushing out excess glue. Wipe up squeeze-out with a damp paper towel immediately.
3

Weight it overnight

Cover with wax paper, then a heavy object. Leave 24 hrs.
4

Floating floor: investigate first

Bubbles in laminate or floating vinyl usually mean expansion — the floor needs a gap at the wall (typically 1/4"). Check the perimeter; if the floor is tight to walls or fixtures, you need to remove baseboard and trim the affected edge.