REGISTER LOGIN HOME

Laminate
AUTHOR Question: Laminate
Heather
Regina
Posted 5/24/2012 at 9:52:30 PM
Thank you for your quick reply on installing laminate in an unheated cottage in winter.

However someone has told me that laminate will buckle from the humidity when warming up and cooling down after it has been installed?

Is this in fact true? Would we be at risk with installing a laminate product?
 
 
RESPONSES
Robert from Electrilight Ltd.
Electrilight Ltd.
Electrician in Oakville
Posted 5/24/2012 at 10:13:54 PM
I wouldn't waste the money on cheap laminate as it will curl from moisture. Some of the thicker, more expensive brands will not and there are some that are moisture resistant, one is made of cork.

Electrilight Ltd.
James from Phoenix Renos and Repairs
Handyman in Campbellville
Posted 5/25/2012 at 2:14:25 PM
Think about this, there are thousands of 3 season cottages that have hardwood and laminate, they don't have any problems. Laminate is just compressed paper (wood fibre)and glue, it's very stable.

Yes it will swell if you pour water on it, but I've never seen it swell from normal moisture in the air. Also winter does not have a lot of air moisture, you have way more moisture in the summer time.

If you want to be 100% sure, check with the manufactures, as every laminate have different spec's.
Dave from 360renos
360renos
Handyman in Navan
Posted 5/25/2012 at 4:21:32 PM
Hi Heather

We have laminate in our family cottage with no problems in the Winter

Install it in the summer when it is humid and you will never have it buckle. Leave it in your cottage for 3 to 4 days to climatize before installation.

Cheers
Dave
Cary from TNT Renovations and Hardscape
Renovations and Flooring Contractor in Toronto
Posted 6/9/2012 at 12:38:03 PM
What Dave says is true.

Laminate expands and contracts based on the temperature. It will only buckle or warp if there is moisture present or not enough gaps are left for it to expand (and contract).
 

 

Disclaimer

 

Home > Ask The Pros > Home Improvements > Laminate