Install Laminate Flooring

DIY – Learn How To Install Laminate Flooring

Let's Change The Feel of Your Property With New Flooring

Materials Needed:

Laminate flooring planks
Underlayment (if not pre-attached to planks)
Measuring tape
Pencil
Spacers
Utility knife
Circular saw or jigsaw
Rubber mallet
Pull bar
Tapping block
Floor transition strips (if needed)
Quarter-round molding or baseboards (if needed)
Tape measure
Knee pads (optional, for comfort)
Safety goggles and gloves

Install Your Flooring Easily By Following Along

1. Prepare the Subfloor:

The first step in installing laminate flooring is preparing the subfloor to ensure a smooth and even surface.

Remove Old Flooring: If there is existing carpet, tile, or old laminate, remove it and thoroughly clean the subfloor. Ensure the subfloor is dry, clean, and free of debris.
Check for Level: Use a level to check the subfloor for any uneven spots. If there are high spots, sand them down. If there are low spots, fill them with a self-leveling compound.
Repair Any Damage: Fix any holes or cracks in the subfloor. Ensure that all nails or screws are flush with the surface to prevent bumps under the laminate.

2. Acclimate the Laminate Flooring:

Allow the laminate flooring to acclimate to the room’s environment to prevent expansion or contraction after installation.

Leave in Room: Leave the unopened boxes of laminate flooring in the room where it will be installed for at least 48 hours. This allows the flooring to adjust to the temperature and humidity of the room.

3. Install Underlayment (If Needed):

Underlayment provides a cushioning layer and sound barrier beneath the laminate.

Roll Out Underlayment: Lay out the underlayment across the subfloor. Cut it to fit the room, making sure it extends up to the walls. Use a utility knife to trim any excess.
Tape Seams: Use underlayment tape to secure seams between each row of underlayment. Ensure there are no gaps or overlaps.

4. Plan the Layout:

Plan the layout of the laminate planks for a balanced and visually appealing finish.

Measure the Room: Measure the length and width of the room to determine how many planks you’ll need and the size of the last row. Ensure the last row will be at least 2 inches wide to avoid awkward cuts.
Decide on the Pattern: Decide whether you want a staggered pattern (most common for laminate) or a straight pattern. Staggering helps the floor look more natural and provides more stability.

5. Start Laying the First Row:

Begin installing the laminate planks along the longest wall in the room.

Use Spacers: Place spacers along the wall to maintain a 1/4-inch expansion gap between the flooring and the wall. This gap allows for expansion and contraction due to temperature changes.
Lay the First Plank: Start in a corner and lay the first plank with the tongue side facing the wall. Press it firmly against the spacers.
Continue Laying Planks: Connect the next plank by aligning the tongue and groove edges and pressing them together. Use a tapping block and rubber mallet to gently tap the planks into place, ensuring a tight fit.

6. Cut Planks as Needed:

Cut planks to fit around corners, doorways, and the last row.

Measure and Mark: Measure the length needed for the last plank in the row. Mark the plank where it needs to be cut.
Cut the Plank: Use a circular saw or jigsaw to cut the plank to size. Make sure to wear safety goggles and gloves while cutting.
Install the Cut Plank: Install the cut plank in place, ensuring it fits snugly.

7. Continue Laying Rows:

Continue laying rows, staggering the seams for a natural look.

Stagger the Seams: Start the next row with a plank that is at least 6 inches shorter than the first plank in the previous row to stagger the seams.
Use a Pull Bar: As you reach the end of each row, use a pull bar to snug the planks together without damaging the edges.
Repeat the Process: Continue this process for each row, ensuring all seams are tight and the planks are securely locked together.

8. Install the Last Row:

Fit the final row of planks along the opposite wall.

Measure for Fit: Measure the width needed for the last row, accounting for the 1/4-inch expansion gap. Mark and cut the planks to the appropriate width.
Install the Last Row: Use a pull bar to secure the last row into place, ensuring it fits snugly against the spacers.

9. Install Transition Strips and Moldings:

Finish the floor installation by adding transition strips and moldings.

Transition Strips: Install transition strips where the laminate meets other flooring types (e.g., carpet, tile) or at doorways. Secure them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Quarter-Round or Baseboards: Reinstall baseboards or add quarter-round molding to cover the expansion gap around the perimeter of the room.

10. Final Touches and Clean-Up:

Complete the project by finishing up any remaining tasks.

Remove Spacers: Carefully remove the spacers along the walls.
Inspect the Floor: Check for any gaps or loose planks and make any necessary adjustments.
Clean the Floor: Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove any debris from the installation process. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions for at least 48 hours to allow the floor to settle.