Why Your Floors Are Raising

Raising floors aren’t just an eyesore, they can be a red flag for something bigger happening in your home. It’s one of those things you notice suddenly. Maybe your hardwood starts to ripple, or your carpet feels like it’s got a secret hill forming underneath. Either way, it’s not something you want to ignore.

The truth is, floors don’t just start lifting for no reason. Figuring out what’s causing the problem is the first step, and from there, you can decide how to fix it. Here’s a breakdown of what might be going on, warning signs to watch for, and how to handle it before it gets worse.

Why Are My Floors Raising?

When you have rising floors, buckling floors, or warping floors, there’s usually one common culprit: moisture.

Water is sneaky, and it doesn’t take much to create issues. Maybe you’ve got a hidden plumbing leak, or humidity levels in your house are through the roof (literally). Even condensation from something as simple as a poorly ventilated crawl space can lead to raising floors over time.

It’s not always about water, though. Temperature changes can also play a role, especially in Canada where the winters are unspeakable and the summers bring heat waves. Wood expands and contracts naturally with temperature shifts, and if your flooring wasn’t installed properly, those changes might cause it to buckle.

Another possible cause? Foundation problems. When the ground underneath your home shifts, it puts pressure on everything above it – including your floors. This is less common, but if your raising floors come with cracks in the walls or doors that suddenly don’t close right, it’s worth looking into.

How to Spot the Signs Early

It’s tempting to brush off small changes, but catching problems early can save you a lot of stress (and money) in the long run. If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it might be time to dig a little deeper:

• Bumps or ripples: If your once-smooth floor has suddenly developed little waves or uneven spots, that’s a red flag.
• Gaps between boards: Hardwood floors separating could mean your flooring is shifting due to moisture or temperature changes.
• Creaking or popping noises: Floors will naturally make some sounds, but if you’re hearing a lot more than usual, it could point to movement underneath.
• Visible water damage: This could show up as staining, discolouration, or even mold along the baseboards.

The earlier you spot these signs, the better your chances of addressing the issue before it turns into a bigger problem.

Steps to Take When Floors Are Raising

Now that you’ve noticed the problem, it’s time to take action. Raising floors aren’t going to fix themselves, so here’s what you should do:

1. Look for the source of the problem.
   Start by figuring out what’s causing the floor to lift. Check for leaks, inspect your basement or crawl space, and look for any signs of water pooling near your foundation. If you can’t find the issue on your own, calling a professional for an inspection is worth it.
2. Control the moisture.
   If water is the culprit, drying out the space is your top priority. Use dehumidifiers, improve ventilation, and repair any leaks ASAP. For areas like basements, you might need to look into better waterproofing solutions.
3. Repair or replace damaged flooring.
   Once the source of the problem is under control, you’ll need to assess the damage. In some cases, you can salvage the flooring with a little TLC, but if the warping or buckling is too severe, replacing it might be the only option.
4. Check your home’s foundation.
   If you suspect the problem goes deeper than surface moisture, it’s a good idea to have your foundation inspected. Shifting or settling can cause a lot of stress on your floors, and catching structural issues early can prevent more serious damage.
5. Get professional advice.
   Flooring problems can be tricky to diagnose, especially if multiple factors are at play. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Ez Con for advice. 

Preventing Raising Floors in the Future

Once your floors are back in shape, you’ll want to keep them that way. Preventative measures are key to avoiding the same problem down the road. Here’s what you can do:

• Keep an eye on humidity. Invest in a hygrometer to monitor indoor humidity levels, and aim to keep them between 30-50%. Dehumidifiers can make a big difference, especially in the summer.
• Address water issues quickly. Whether it’s a leaky pipe or a spill, deal with water problems as soon as they come up. The longer moisture sits, the more damage it can do.
• Leave space for expansion. If you’re installing new flooring, make sure there’s enough room for natural expansion and contraction. This is especially important for wood floors.
• Maintain your foundation. Regularly inspect the exterior of your home for signs of shifting or settling, and keep an eye on drainage to make sure water isn’t pooling near your foundation.

Final Thoughts

Raising floors might seem like a small issue at first, but they’re often a sign of a bigger problem. Whether it’s moisture, temperature changes, or something more serious like foundation issues, getting to the bottom of it is crucial.

At Ez Con, we understand how frustrating it is to deal with unexpected home repairs. That’s why we’re here to help. If you’re dealing with raising floors or other home concerns, reach out to us for advice or assistance. Together, we’ll make sure your home stays safe, comfortable, and exactly the way you want it.