Why Your LVP Floors Are Peaking and Separating—And How to Stop It
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring has become a popular choice for homeowners and businesses due to its durability, affordability, and stylish appearance. However, like many flooring materials, LVP is susceptible to damage from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. If you’ve noticed your LVP starting to warp, separate, or fade, don’t worry—you’re not alone! Understanding the risks and taking a few simple steps can help keep your floors looking great for years to come.
Peaking, Separating, and Fading Due to Heat Exposure
Fading and Discoloration
If your floors are looking dull or washed out, the sun is likely to blame. UV rays gradually break down the color in LVP, leading to uneven patches and fading. Even products with UV-resistant coatings can show signs of wear over time.
Peaking and Separating
Have you noticed ridges forming between your planks? That’s called peaking, and it happens when heat causes your flooring to expand but there’s no room for it to go. Over time, planks push against each other and start to lift. Then, when temperatures cool and the planks contract, separation can occur, leaving visible gaps between planks. In severe cases, gapping between planks may become noticeable and require professional attention.
Premature Aging
Just like prolonged sun exposure can age your skin, excessive heat and UV rays can accelerate the breakdown of your LVP flooring. Over time, this can cause the material to become brittle, making it more prone to cracks and damage. In extreme cases, planks lifting from the subfloor may occur, requiring repair or replacement.
Why Sunlight Damages LVP More at High Altitudes (Like in Colorado)
If you live in a high-altitude area like Colorado, your flooring is exposed to even more intense sunlight than in lower elevations. With the thinner atmosphere, UV radiation is up to 25% stronger at 5,280 feet compared to sea level. That means your floors are absorbing more heat, which can lead to significant damage over time.
On hot summer days, LVP flooring in direct sunlight can exceed 120°F or more. If your flooring sits near a window or glass door, this heat exposure can cause warping, expansion, and other issues. Darker-colored LVP absorbs even more heat, making it particularly vulnerable to damage.
How to Protect LVP from Direct Sunlight
1. Use Window Treatments
Simple solutions like blinds, curtains, or solar shades can make a big difference. They help filter out harsh UV rays while still allowing in natural light.
2. Apply UV-Blocking Window Film
A high-quality UV-blocking window film is a great option if you have large windows or glass doors. It reduces UV exposure without obstructing your view, helping to protect your flooring.
3. Rearrange Furniture and Rugs
One easy way to minimize damage is to move furniture and rugs around periodically. This prevents certain areas from getting too much sun exposure and fading faster than others.
4. Use Exterior Awnings or Shades
Installing awnings, pergolas, or shade sails outside your patio door and windows can help cut down on the amount of direct sunlight hitting your floors. Plus, they can help keep your home cooler overall.
What to Do If Damage Has Already Occurred
If your LVP flooring has already been affected by sun exposure, hiring a professional flooring expert is the best way to restore and protect it. Specialists have the right tools and expertise to assess damage and recommend the most effective repairs.
Repair for Peaking and Separation
Inspection and Assessment: A flooring expert will evaluate the extent of peaking and separation, checking for underlying issues like insufficient expansion gaps or adhesive failure.
Plank Replacement: The most cost effective way to restore a sun-damaged floor is to replace only the affected planks. Expert installers can remove and seamlessly install matching planks if you have extras or if your flooring product is still in production, preserving the overall appearance while minimizing replacement costs.
Full Floor Replacement: If extensive damage has occurred and matching planks are unavailable, a full floor replacement may be necessary.
Professional repairs ensure that your flooring is repaired correctly and remains protected from further sun damage, giving you peace of mind and restoring the beauty of your home.
Conclusion
Your LVP flooring is an investment, and taking a few preventative steps can go a long way in keeping it in top condition. By using window treatments, UV-blocking films, and seeking professional repairs when necessary, you can protect against fading, peaking, and separation. A little effort now will save you from costly replacements down the road—so you can enjoy your beautiful floors for years to come!