COMMON WOOD FLOOR PROBLEMS BY THEFLOORINGINSPECTOR.COM

Most problems with hardwood floors are related to moisture and woods natural propensity to expand and contract as it absorbs and emits moisture into the air. Over time these changes can result in undesirable changes in the floors appearance  such as cracks, separation, buckling and so forth.

There can also be “invisible” moisture problems beneath the flooring substrate that have a similar results. Poor moisture control in the wood or concrete subfloor during installation is usually the root of the problem. Leaks, water intrusion and flooding of course are also a source.

Floor Cupping

FLOOR CUPPING
Cupping occurs across the width of the individual pieces of flooring. The edges are high and the center is lower. It generally develops gradually over time.

discolored floor boords

DISCOLORED FLOOR BOARDS
The floor changes  color (darkens or lightens) over time. Some areas may change color more than others.

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MISSING FINISH ON FLOOR
Uneven application or areas of missing finish on flooring.

Delaminated Flooring

DELAMINATED FLOORING
The separation of a layer from an adjoining one within a piece of engineered wood flooring.

Buckled Floor

BUCKLED FLOOR
Excessive expansion causing the wood flooring to release from the subfloor.

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ABNORMAL GAPS
Gaps in the floor that remain with seasonal change.

Floor Crowining

CROWNING
The center of the pieces of flooring appears to be higher than the edges.

Sanding Marks on Floor

SANDING MARKS
Sanding imperfections seen as scratches, drum marks, dishouts, sanding scratches, swirl marks and stop marks.

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