When walking on composite flooring, you may notice areas that feel soft or sunken. This could indicate a minor issue or a more serious problem. Identifying the root cause is essential for proper repair.
If the subfloor deviates more than 2 mm, soft spots or dents can appear in the flooring. The flooring will mirror any unevenness in the subfloor, causing discomfort underfoot.
Using the wrong underlayment or installation method can lead to soft spots.
Solution: Replace with underlayment designed for engineered wood or reinstall the flooring correctly.
Insufficient expansion joints can cause flooring to swell or bubble.
Solution: Ensure adequate expansion gaps around walls and reinforce with nails or glue.
Water seeping under the flooring can make it spongy or warped.
Solution: Replace the affected subfloor and repair the underlying structure.
Termites can weaken flooring, causing softness.
Solution: Replace damaged flooring and have a professional inspect and treat the infestation.
Soft spots in composite flooring often result from uneven subfloors or installation errors. Addressing these issues – by filling gaps, ensuring proper expansion joints, or repairing water and pest damage – can restore stability. For complex problems, consulting a professional is strongly recommended.
