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When you invest in new flooring, you expect it to not only look beautiful but also last for years to come. However, poor installation can quickly turn your dream floor into a daily frustration. Whether it’s squeaking planks, uneven surfaces, or visible gaps, improper flooring installation can lead to costly repairs, safety hazards, and even premature replacement.
At Cyndi's Floors N More, we understand how important it is for homeowners to feel confident in the quality of their flooring—and the people who install it. That’s why we’re sharing five telltale signs that your flooring may have been installed incorrectly. Knowing what to look for can help you catch issues early and avoid long-term damage.
Let’s dive in.
One of the most obvious signs of poor installation is visible gaps between planks, tiles, or boards. While some natural expansion and contraction of flooring materials (especially wood) is expected due to humidity changes, consistent or large gaps shouldn’t be ignored.
Improper acclimation of flooring material before installation.
Uneven subfloor.
Incorrect measurement or spacing techniques.
Rushed or careless installation work.
Gaps aren’t just unsightly—they can also collect dirt, moisture, and debris, leading to faster wear and tear or even mould growth underneath the flooring. If your brand-new floors are already showing gaps, it’s a red flag.
Consult a trusted flooring specialist like Cyndi's Floors N More to assess the situation. In some cases, gaps can be filled or patched, but severe issues may require reinstallation.
Have you ever walked across a room and felt a slight dip or rise beneath your feet? Uneven or sloping floors could be another sign of poor installation—or worse, an issue with your subfloor.
Failing to level the subfloor before installation.
Using the wrong underlayment.
Ignoring structural issues in the home (like joist damage).
Aside from being annoying, uneven flooring can become a tripping hazard—especially for children and elderly family members. Over time, it may also cause the flooring material itself to shift or crack.
This type of issue needs a professional evaluation. A company like Cyndi's Floors N More can inspect your subfloor and determine whether the flooring needs to be removed and reinstalled on a properly leveled base.
When two adjacent boards push against each other and form a peak at the joint, that’s called peaking. If floorboards lift entirely from the subfloor, it’s known as buckling. Both are clear indicators of something going wrong underneath.
Lack of proper expansion gaps during installation.
Excessive moisture or water damage.
Using the wrong adhesive or nails.
Exposure to extreme heat or sunlight.
Peaking and buckling don’t just look bad—they create unsafe walking surfaces and can permanently damage your flooring materials. In laminate or engineered wood floors, buckling is often irreversible.
Remove and reinstall affected sections—this time with proper expansion gaps and moisture protection. Cyndi's Floors N More recommends always working with experienced professionals who understand the environmental needs of different flooring types.
A little creaking from old hardwood is normal. But if your brand-new floors are already making a racket every time you take a step, it’s a strong sign something’s not right.
Loose floorboards due to improper fastening.
Uneven or unstable subfloor.
Moisture trapped under the floor.
Incompatible materials or poor installation methods.
Persistent squeaking isn’t just annoying—it often indicates friction between flooring components that could eventually lead to loosening, shifting, or even cracking.
Sometimes the fix is simple—like adding screws or fasteners. But in other cases, sections may need to be lifted and reinstalled. At Cyndi's Floors N More, we make sure all materials are tightly secured and tested for stability before we leave your home.
If you start to notice tiles cracking or vinyl planks chipping shortly after installation, don’t chalk it up to bad luck. It could be a sign that your flooring wasn’t installed correctly to begin with.
Using the wrong type of underlayment or none at all.
Uneven subfloor causing pressure points.
Poor handling of materials during installation.
Cutting corners to save time or cost.
Small chips can lead to larger cracks, water seepage, and eventual failure of the flooring material. This is especially problematic in high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways.
Get a flooring professional to assess whether the issue is isolated or widespread. If your installer is reputable—like the team at Cyndi's Floors N More—they’ll stand behind their work and help you with repairs or replacements.
While it’s tempting to hire the cheapest contractor or attempt a DIY job to save money, improper flooring installation can cost you more in the long run. Here’s what might be at stake:
Repair costs: Fixing incorrectly installed floors often means paying again to undo and redo the job.
Health concerns: Moisture trapped under flooring can lead to mold, which poses a serious health risk.
Resale value: Poor flooring installation can significantly lower your home’s appeal to potential buyers.
This is why partnering with a reputable company like Cyndi's Floors N More is worth every penny. Our licensed, insured, and experienced team ensures your flooring is installed correctly the first time, saving you stress, time, and money.
Avoiding a flooring nightmare starts before the first plank is even laid down. Here are some smart steps:
Don’t just go with the lowest bid. Check online reviews, ask for references, and look for a company with a strong local reputation—like Cyndi's Floors N More.
Make sure your flooring materials are stored in your home for at least 48–72 hours before installation, especially for wood or laminate, to adjust to temperature and humidity.
Your installer should always check that the subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Skipping this step often leads to long-term problems.
Your quote should clearly outline materials, labor, underlayment, moisture barriers, and prep work. Transparency now prevents headaches later.
Installing new flooring should be a rewarding experience—not a source of daily stress. If you’ve noticed any of the signs mentioned above, it’s time to act before things get worse. Improper flooring installation is more common than many homeowners realize, but the good news is that it’s also preventable.
At Cyndi's Floors N More, we pride ourselves on getting the job done right from start to finish. Whether you’re replacing carpet with hardwood or upgrading to luxury vinyl plank, our team is here to ensure your floors are functional, flawless, and built to last.
Minor issues like squeaks or small gaps might be DIY-friendly, but most installation errors require professional tools and expertise. It’s best to consult with a company like Cyndi's Floors N More for accurate repairs.
Signs like sloping floors, bouncing underfoot, or recurring cracks may point to subfloor problems. A qualified installer will inspect your subfloor before beginning any work to ensure a smooth installation.
Most reputable companies offer labour warranties ranging from 1 to 5 years. At Cyndi's Floors N More, we stand behind our work with a satisfaction guarantee and clear terms on all services.
