When installing laminate flooring, using a tapping block is highly recommended. A tapping block is a short piece of wood used in conjunction with a rubber mallet to protect the edges of laminate planks during installation. Using a tapping block can help prevent damage to the locking mechanisms on laminate planks. In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of using a tapping block for laminate flooring and explain when and how to use one.
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What is a tapping block?
A tapping block is a short piece of scrap wood, usually around 6-12 inches long, with a flat surface on one or both ends. It is used along with a rubber mallet to lock the joints of laminate flooring planks together. The tapping block is placed against the edge of the laminate plank and then struck with the mallet to securely join the plank edges.
Tapping blocks are typically made of wood like oak or pine. Softwoods like pine absorb more shock and are less likely to damage the laminate planks during installation. The ends of the block may be left flat or rounded over slightly. Having at least one flat end allows the installer to get better contact and leverage when tapping planks together.
Benefits of using a tapping block
Using a tapping block for laminate flooring installation provides the following advantages:
- Protects locking mechanism – Striking the edge of a laminate plank directly with a hammer risks damaging the delicate locking strips. The tapping block distributes the force evenly and prevents harm to the connectivity system.
- Prevents surface damage – Hitting the laminate surface directly could mar, dent or chip the laminate. The wood block protects the laminate surface from mallet impact.
- Allows secure connections – The leverage from the tapping block allows installers to achieve tight, secure seams between planks.
- Quickens installation – Using the right tapping techniques with a block allows laminate planks to be quickly joined during the installation process.
- Adds stability – Keeping the planks securely connected together with tight seams makes the entire floor more stable.
In summary, tapping blocks are an essential installation tool that allow floors to be assembled quickly and properly while protecting the flooring itself.Installers should always use a tapping block when installing laminate flooring of any kind.
When should you use a tapping block?
A tapping block should be used whenever joining together laminate flooring planks during the installation process. The main times when a tapping block is essential are:
1. When starting a new row
The first row of laminate flooring usually needs to be tapped into place by hand. But for subsequent rows, a tapping block should be used against the long edge to lock each plank into the previous row. This allows a tight, secure seam while protecting the locking strip and laminate surface.
2. When finishing a row
At the end of each row, use the tapping block against the short end of the plank to fully engage it with the previous plank in that row. The block allows you to tap the joints together for a tight fit.
3. When joining planks within a row
When additional planks need to be added within an existing row, connect the short end into the previous plank. Use the tapping block against the long edge to fully engage the locking mechanism without harming the flooring.
In general, if you need to lock a laminate plank into any other laminate planks, you should reach for the tapping block to complete the joint securely.
How to properly use a tapping block
Using a tapping block takes a bit of practice to get right. Follow these tips for best results:
1. Select an appropriate tapping block
Choose a softwood block around 6-12 inches long. Softwood like pine better absorbs the tapping impact. Make sure the block has at least one flat end to use for tapping.
2. Use an appropriate mallet
Always use a rubber mallet with the tapping block. The rubber absorbs excess shock and will not damage the laminate surface. A standard hammer is too hard and risks marring the flooring.
3. Angle the tapping block slightly
Place the block against the edge of the plank at a very slight inward angle, around 10-15 degrees. Never hold it completely perpendicular. Angling it directs the force inward toward the joint.
4. Tap lightly near the joints
Apply light, controlled taps near the joints you are trying to connect. Focus on tapping close to the intersection rather than in the middle of the block. Start with lighter taps and increase force as needed.
5. Never tap laminate directly
Always maintain the tapping block interface between the mallet and flooring surface. Never strike the laminate planks with the mallet directly as this risks damage.
6. Check for proper fit
After tapping a joint into place, inspect that the locking mechanism is fully engaged and no gaps are present. The planks should fit snugly together at the joints. Repeat the process if needed until a tight joint is achieved.
It may take some practice to get the right touch when tapping laminate planks together. But using the proper technique with an appropriate tapping block makes joining the flooring much easier and protects your investment in beautiful laminate.
Can you install laminate flooring without a tapping block?
It’s not recommended to install laminate flooring without using a tapping block. While it may seem possible to simply hammer the flooring planks together, this risks severely damaging the laminate in several ways:
- The locking strips may crack and break without the cushioning effect of the tapping block. This can completely destroy the ability to keep planks joined.
- Hammer blows can dent, chip and scratch the laminate surface, marring its appearance.
- Joints are likely to stay loose and unstable without controlled tapping, leading to gaps and movement later on.
- Trying to muscle planks together without a block often leads to using excessive force which further damages planks.
In nearly all cases, installers who forego tapping blocks end up with floors that have visible damage and unstable joints. The flaws become apparent quickly as cracks, gaps and buckling develop in the laminate. Using a quality tapping block as designed provides the control needed to properly install laminate flooring that remains beautiful and durable for years.
Tips for choosing a tapping block
Picking an appropriate tapping block makes the installation process smoother. Keep these tips in mind when selecting one:
- Choose a softwood like pine. Harder woods don’t absorb force as well.
- Select a wood block 6-12 inches long for best leverage and control.
- Make sure at least one end of the block has a flat surface for striking the flooring edge.
- Avoid blocks with cracks, knots or checks that could transfer more impact to the laminate.
- Replacement blocks are inexpensive. Change out blocks that get battered or warped.
- Some kits include a block purpose-made for that brand’s flooring system.
If your kit does not include a tapping block, they can be purchased for very little cost at any home improvement store. They may also be cut quickly from scrap softwood if desired.
What can be used instead of a tapping block?
In a pinch, some other items could potentially work instead of a standard tapping block:
Scrap flooring cutoffs
Short pieces cut from defect planks or unused full boards at the end could function like a tapping block. However, their smaller size makes them a bit trickier to use.
Trimmed stair treads
Discarded pieces of oak stair tread make decent substitutes since oak absorbs force well. But oak is harder than pine, so care is needed to not damage planks.
Flattened shoe heels
An old rubber shoe heel flattened on one side can cushion blows from the mallet. But it does not spread force as evenly as a wood block.
Rubber matting
Thin rubber matting can be cut into blocks and used in a similar manner. Rubber absorbs shock fairly well but will not last as long as solid wood blocks.
In an emergency, these items may get the job done. But for best results, inexpensive standard laminate tapping blocks are recommended.
Conclusion
Using a tapping block is considered absolutely essential by nearly all laminate flooring manufacturers and installers. The simple wooden block protects planks from damage while providing the leverage and control needed to properly fit laminate joints together. Never hammering laminate planks directly avoids costly mistakes. Investing in a quality tapping block saves time, frustration and repairs down the road. Understanding proper tapping block techniques allows DIYers to feel confident installing beautiful, long-lasting laminate floors.