What is buckling often caused by?

Buckling is a phenomenon that typically occurs when the carpet is not properly stretched during installation. When the carpet is not adequately tensioned, it can lead to a condition where the material does not lie flat against the subfloor. This lack of tension allows the carpet to move underfoot and can create waves or ripples in the surface, which is commonly referred to as buckling.

This improper stretching is crucial because it affects the carpet's appearance and performance. Correct stretching ensures that the carpet is securely held in place, which helps to prevent wear and tear, as well as other issues like fraying or lifting at the seams.

While excessive moisture can lead to other carpet-related problems, such as mold growth or delamination, it does not specifically cause buckling. Defective carpet material may create various issues but does not directly relate to the physical movement of the carpet like improper installation does. Additionally, incorrect installation can include many factors, but the specific mechanic of buckling is primarily attributed to the failure to stretch the carpet adequately during the installation process.