Installing laminate flooring can transform the look of a room by adding beautiful, durable floors. While it may seem daunting, laminate flooring is actually one of the easiest flooring options for do-it-yourselfers to install. By following some simple steps, you can achieve professional-looking results. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to easily install laminate flooring in your home.
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What is Laminate Flooring?
Laminate flooring consists of synthetic flooring layers fused together to create a durable, attractive surface that replicates wood or stone. The top layer is a clear melamine resin that protects against scratches, stains, and fading. Below this is a photographic layer that creates the wood or stone pattern. The core layer contains high-density fiberboard (HDF) for stability, while the bottom layer is a melamine backing that repels moisture.
Compared to solid hardwood or engineered wood, laminate is very affordable. It also comes prefinished, so there is no need for sanding or staining on site. Laminate is easy to clean and highly resistant to moisture damage. However, it cannot be refinished like real wood. But the durability and low maintenance make laminate an excellent choice for homes with kids or pets.
Benefits of Laminate Flooring
- Durable and scratch-resistant surface
- Stain and fade resistant
- Affordable compared to wood flooring
- Easy DIY installation
- Wide variety of wood and stone looks
- Hygienic and easy to clean
- Minimal maintenance required
- Helps insulate against sound
- Floats over minor subfloor imperfections
Things to Know Before Installing Laminate
Here are some key things to keep in mind before installing laminate flooring:
- Subfloor requirements: The subfloor must be clean, dry, structurally sound, and flat. Any unevenness over 1/8″ must be sanded down or filled.
- Layout planning: Map out the room and determine the layout. Account for 1/4″ spacers around perimeter. Plan how planks will be distributed to avoid narrow end pieces.
- Acclimation: Leave sealed boxes of laminate laying flat in the room for 48 hours before installing to allow the planks to acclimate.
- Transitions: Ensure any required transitions like reducers are purchased ahead of time.
- Tools/materials: Gather all necessary tools like a saw, pulls bar, spacers, tapping block, etc. as well as underlayment, sweep/vacuum, and adhesive.
- Door jambs: Undercut all door jambs so flooring can slide underneath without any obstructions.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Follow these steps for smooth, successful laminate flooring installation:
1. Prepare the Subfloor
The subfloor must be thoroughly cleaned and prepped before laying laminate planks:
- Remove existing flooring if necessary, as well as baseboards and trim.
- Vacuum and sweep subfloor to remove all debris.
- Inspect for unevenness and fill any low spots with floor leveling compound if needed.
- Check for moisture on concrete subfloors, which requires sealing.
- Fill any cracks or gaps in the subfloor using caulk.
2. Lay Underlayment
Install underlayment per manufacturer’s instructions. Underlayment creates a smooth, even surface and helps with minor moisture protection and sound insulation. Use vapor barrier underlayment on concrete subfloors. Run underlayment in the opposite direction that the laminate planks will be installed. Tape seams with adhesive tape.
3. Measure Room and Map Out Layout
Carefully measure the length and width of the room. Come up with a layout plan accounting for 1/4″ expansion gap around all walls and vertical surfaces. Stagger end joints by at least 6 inches between rows. Try to avoid ending rows with pieces smaller than 6 inches. Cut planks as needed to optimize the layout.
4. Install First Row
Start installing planks in the left corner of the room with tongue sides facing the walls. The first row should be completely straight, as this dictates alignment of the entire floor. Use spacers against the wall, and drill holes for screws in the subfloor to anchor the first row in place if needed.
5. Click Subsequent Rows into Place
Once the first row is properly positioned against the spacers, install subsequent rows by angling planks and dropping the tongue edge into the groove of the previous row. Push down firmly to lock together. Use a tapping block if needed to gently tap planks flush at the seams. Stagger end joints from row to row by at least 6 inches.
6. Cut Final Row to Width
For the last row, lay a plank right on top of the previous row, with its edge against the wall spacer. Lay another plank upside down with the tongue side on top of the plank to be cut. Use this as a straight guide to cut the final row to the correct width with a utility knife. Remove wall spacers after final row is installed.
7. Install Transitions and Trims
Install any required transitions like T-moldings between rooms or reducer strips between floors. Reinstall baseboards and/or quarter round trim. Nail carefully into the wall, not the floor. Caulk along trim for clean, finished look.
8. Make Holes for Pipework
For any pipework, make holes in planks using a holesaw or drill prior to installation. Cut planks to fit around the pipes, leaving a 1/4″ gap. Install planks as normal. Apply silicone caulk around pipes after installing to seal gaps.
Tips for Easing Installation
Follow these tips to make laminate installation smoother:
- Use shims underneath doors to maintain needed expansion space.
- Check that all plank locking systems align properly when clicking together.
- Open several boxes at once during installation to mix appearances.
- Apply painter’s tape to joins for extra moisture protection and soundproofing.
- Save leftover planks in case future repairs are needed.
- Slide appliances out rather than unplugging when installing around them.
Laminate Flooring Maintenance
Caring properly for laminate floors will keep them looking like new for years. Here are some simple maintenance tips:
- Sweep, dust mop, or vacuum regularly to remove grit that can scratch.
- Damp mop occasionally with laminate-safe cleaner.
- Use felt pads underneath all furniture legs.
- Avoid excessive moisture which can warp planks.
- Clean spills promptly to avoid staining.
- Consider area rugs in high traffic zones.
- Rearrange furniture periodically to allow even aging.
- Trim pets claws to avoid scratches.
Conclusion
Installing laminate flooring is an achievable DIY project for most homeowners. Just be sure to properly prepare the subfloor, measure carefully, and work methodically row by row. Acclimate the planks in the install room, account for expansion space, and stagger joints between rows. With the right tools and techniques, you can transform any room with beautiful new laminate floors in a weekend. Follow the tips above for ease of installation and to get years of enjoyment from your new laminate flooring.