Hello, homemakers! As a home decor enthusiast and a DIY enthusiast, I want to share with you something that transformed my home: installing laminate flooring. Let’s find out together how you can easily and efficiently renovate your spaces!
How to lay laminate flooring?
Whether on the floor of the kitchen or anywhere else, knowing how to lay laminate flooring is essential.
Measure the laminate flooring planks
To get the best results when installing laminate flooring, you should accurately measure the area you’re working on. Take measurements of the width of the room or wall perpendicular to how you’d like to align your planks.
It is important to acclimatize your new floor
- Before installing your new flooring, your laminate planks will first need to acclimate to the room.
- Place the laminate pieces in the room where you will install them and let them sit for at least 48 hours.
- This allows them to acclimate to the temperature and humidity conditions in the room prior to installation.
- Next, you will need to prepare the subfloor. You will know it is safe to install the flooring when the subfloor is clean and smooth.
You can often install laminate over old floor coverings, such as sheet vinyl, as long as it is flat, smooth, and not too soft. Most of the time, however, you will want to remove the existing flooring, as well as the baseboards and trim around the room. Sweep or vacuum up any debris, then check to see if the subfloor is level. For concrete basement floors, patch any chips in the subfloor with a patching compound. This tip is one of the most important when it comes to installing laminate flooring.
Trim the door jambs
When it comes to how to lay laminate flooring, when laying flooring around doorways, it is often a little easier to cut some door trim than it is to cut the flooring materials to fit an irregular shape.
- When you cut a little bit of wood from the bottom of your trim, allows your floor to fit underneath for a seamless result.
- First, place a piece of laminate over the base, then align it against the door frame.
- Use a pencil to mark where the top of the laminate meets the molding. This indicates where to cut.
- Then use a saw to remove the small piece of wood. When installing, you should be able to smoothly slide the flooring into the small space.
Install the base
Before you lay your laminate planks, you’ll need to install underlayment. This thin, dense foam is designed to help absorb sound and make your floor warmer.
It can also act as a bridge over any gaps or indentations in the subfloor layer below. Some laminate floors come with built-in underlayment, if so, you can skip this step. If your floor doesn't come with its own underlayment, start by laying down two rows of underlayment. Trim the pieces with a utility knife to fit the width of the room. Use masking tape or underlayment adhesive to adhere adjacent pieces together.
When laying sheets of underlayment next to each other, make sure they are not overlapping. You want to avoid having your underlayment stack on top of another layer, as this can create bumps in uneven sections of your floors. If you are installing laminate in high-humidity rooms, such as basements or kitchens, it is best to install a vapor barrier before laying the underlayment.
Lay your first row of laminate
Now, you need to decide which flooring you will start the installation on. It is a good rule of thumb to start laying the flooring against the longest wall. However, if there is a large focal point in the room, such as a fireplace or large windows, you may want to start laying the flooring parallel to that wall.
Start your first row by laying the planks tongue-side down against the wall. You can also cut the tongues of the planks in the first row with a utility knife. However, since the baseboard will cover some of the first and last rows, there is no need to trim the tongue.
Next, place the groove of the next piece in place and press down to fit it. Use ⅜-inch spacers along the wall to allow room for the flooring to expand and contract over time. Then, continue laying planks until you reach the last row. You may need to trim the final piece to fit snugly in the space, making sure to leave an expansion gap.
Continue placing planks
To start the second and subsequent rows, place a board that is either longer or shorter than the first board in the first row. (Use the piece you just cut from the last piece in the first row.)
Staggering the seams in each row helps create a more secure installation and an attractive appearance. Try to stagger at least a foot from the adjacent seam.
When installing subsequent rows, you may need to wiggle the planks to fit them into the groove and snap into place. Many manufacturers suggest using a knockout block or pull bar to secure the planks. These tools help ensure that they are securely fastened, with no gaps between them.
To install the last row, you may need to trim some of the width of your planks. When installing the last row, it helps to angle the planks so they fit into the tight space.
Add finishing touches
Once you’ve finished installing the flooring, remove the spacers from the walls. Install door sills and baseboards in your room. Be sure to caulk the edges of the baseboard for a smooth, finished look.
Curiosity: Did you know that laminate flooring was invented in Sweden in the 1970s? An innovation that revolutionized homes!
How to Install Laminate Flooring: For Beginners!
Conclusion
Installing your own laminate flooring can be a rewarding experience. In addition to saving money, you’ll gain skills and ensure that everything is done with your own personal touch. With these tips, you’ll be ready to transform your space!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does laminate flooring last?
With proper care, it can last up to 20 years!
Can I install laminate flooring over ceramic tiles?
Yes, as long as the surface is level.
Is laminate flooring water resistant?
There are options on the market that are, but it is always good to check before purchasing.
Does laminate flooring scratch easily?
It is sturdy, but dragging heavy furniture can cause scratches.
How to choose the ideal color for laminate flooring?
Consider the lighting in the room and the color of the furniture.
Is laminate flooring a good option for those with pets?
Yes, because it is resistant and easy to clean.
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