Common Flooring Issues & How to Fix Them

Here at Mr. Handyman, we specialize in floor repair and other home improvement projects. We’ve repaired floors for decades in both residential and commercial properties. Our handymen in Collinsville, TX know the common flooring issues homeowners encounter from time to time. Let’s look at five of those flooring issues.

Water Damage and Warping

Water is one of the biggest enemies of most types of flooring. Hardwood and laminate, in particular, can swell, warp, or buckle when exposed to excess moisture. This might happen from a plumbing leak, high humidity, or even repeated spills that aren’t cleaned up quickly. You’ll often notice the boards lifting or forming a wave-like shape. To prevent this, use rugs in moisture-prone areas and ensure your home has proper ventilation. If water damage has already occurred, replacement of the affected section may be necessary.

Cracked or Chipped Tiles

Tile flooring is known for its durability, but it’s not completely immune to damage. Dropping a heavy object or applying excessive pressure can cause individual tiles to crack or chip. This not only affects the appearance but can also be a safety hazard. The good news is that a single damaged tile can be replaced without redoing the entire floor. Use rugs in high-risk areas and choose the right grade of tile for the location to avoid this problem.

Gaps Between Floorboards

If you have hardwood or laminate flooring, you may notice gaps developing between planks over time. This usually happens because of changes in temperature and humidity. Wood naturally expands and contracts with moisture levels, and if your home isn’t properly climate-controlled, gaps can form. While minor spacing is normal, larger gaps may need professional adjustment. A humidifier in the winter and a dehumidifier in the summer can help keep these changes in check.

Peeling or Bubbling in Vinyl Floors

Vinyl is popular for being low maintenance and cost-effective, but it can peel or bubble when not installed properly or when exposed to moisture. Bubbling happens when adhesive fails or moisture gets trapped underneath. Peeling edges may be caused by excessive wear or poor bonding during installation. To prevent these issues, choose high-quality vinyl and make sure installation is done correctly by a skilled handyman—especially in bathrooms or kitchens where moisture is common.

Scratches and Surface Wear

No matter how careful you are, scratches and surface wear are almost inevitable over time, especially with pets, children, and heavy furniture. Hardwood and laminate floors are most vulnerable to this, though vinyl and tile can also get scuffed. It’s advisable to use protective pads under furniture legs, lay down area rugs in high-traffic zones, and keep pet nails trimmed to preserve your floor’s finish.

Trust the Team at Mr. Handyman for Floor Repair

If you’re in need of reliable and cost-effective floor repair, get in touch with the technicians at Mr. Handyman. We’ve been fixing floors since 1996, when we opened our doors, so there’s no job that’s too big or too small for our handymen. Our trusted and qualified experts have over 10 years of experience under their belts, which means you can have peace of mind knowing that your flooring is in capable hands.