Why Is My LVP Coming Apart?

Luxury vinyl plank flooring (LVP) has been a favorite among homeowners. But what happens when those beautiful planks start lifting or separating?

 

If you’ve noticed your LVP coming apart, you’re not the first. In fact, "Why Is My LVP Coming Apart?" is one of the most common questions we get each day at Royal Flooring. And it’s not something to ignore.

 

Let’s break down why this might be happening and what you can do next.

 

What LVP Is Designed to Do

 

LVP is made to click together securely and lie flat on your floor. It resists scratches, moisture, and heavy foot traffic. But it needs the right conditions to stay in place. When those conditions aren’t met, problems start to appear.

 

5 Common Reasons Your LVP Is Coming Apart

 

1. Moisture Problems Underneath

 

Even though LVP is water-resistant, your subfloor might not be. If moisture sneaks in from underneath, like from a damp basement slab, it can cause planks to swell or shift. This can loosen the click-lock system and create gaps between planks.

 

2. Uneven or Improper Subfloor Prep

 

Before installing LVP, the subfloor needs to be level, dry, and clean. If it isn’t, the planks may not lay flat. Over time, uneven spots can push planks apart or cause the edges to lift.

 

3. Bad Installation Practices

 

Proper installation is key. That means leaving an expansion gap around the edges and clicking planks together tightly. If the planks are forced together or installed without room to expand, they can pull apart or buckle later.

 

4. Big Swings in Temperature or Humidity

 

LVP expands and contracts with temperature changes. If the room isn’t climate-controlled or if planks weren’t acclimated before install, shifting can happen. That leads to visible gaps, especially in sunrooms or basements.

 

5. Furniture Damage or Heavy Foot Traffic

 

Dragging heavy furniture or appliances can damage the click-lock seams. So can constant pressure in high-traffic areas. Lower-quality LVP may wear out faster, making this more likely to happen.

 

What Not to Do If Your LVP Separates

 

• Don’t try to glue down planks that are supposed to float

• Don’t pull up and reset planks without expert help

• Don’t ignore it—small gaps can get worse fast

 

Instead, call a flooring professional. A trained eye can spot the root cause and fix it properly.

 

 

How to Fix It the Right Way

 

If your LVP is coming apart, fixing it may involve:

 

• Re-leveling the subfloor

• Replacing damaged planks

• Reinstalling sections with proper spacing and alignment

 

The right fix depends on the issue. That’s why it’s important to get a professional assessment before trying anything on your own.

 

 

How to Prevent Future Issues

 

• Work with professional installers from the beginning

• Ask about moisture barriers if you’re installing over concrete

• Keep indoor temperatures and humidity steady year-round

• Acclimate planks before installation

• Use furniture pads and avoid dragging heavy items

 

When in Doubt, Call the Pros

 

Luxury vinyl plank flooring is a smart choice for busy homes. But even the best products can fail if something goes wrong underneath. If your planks are coming apart, let Royal Flooring help you figure out why.

 

Our team will diagnose the problem, explain your options, and restore your floor to its best.

 

Contact us today for an expert flooring consultation.