Why are expansion gaps needed for HydroShield laminate flooring installation?

HydroShield is a wood-based water-resistant Laminate floor. The core is made of HDF (High Density Fiberboard) which is made from wood. As a result, it acts and performs like wood in many ways including expanding and contracting. As temperature and humidity conditions change in a home throughout the year, your flooring will expand and contract. Without adding in the necessary 5/16 in. – 3/8 in. required expansion gap, eventually your floor is most likely going to experience one or more of the following conditions: buckling & sagging or making creaking, cracking and other possible sounds. Buckling & sagging also weakens your floor’s locking joints which can disrupt the integrity of HydroShield’s water resistance.