Best Way To Lay Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring can be an affordable, stylish, and durable option for your home. It is important to learn the best way to lay laminate flooring to ensure that you are getting the most out of your investment. In this article, we will show you the best way to lay laminate flooring so that your floor looks great and lasts for years.

Prepare the Subfloor

The first step in laying laminate flooring is to prepare your subfloor. This involves checking for levelness, cleaning the floor, and patching any cracks or holes. If your subfloor is not level, you may need to add a leveling compound or a self-leveling underlayment. Make sure that the subfloor is free of dust, dirt, and debris before you start laying your laminate flooring.

Choose the Right Underlayment

The next step is to choose the right underlayment for your laminate flooring. Underlayment is a thin foam that is placed underneath the laminate flooring to provide additional cushioning and soundproofing. There are several types of underlayment available, so make sure to choose the one that is best suited for your needs.

Acclimate the Laminate

Before you start laying your laminate, you should acclimate it to the room where it will be installed. This involves letting the laminate sit in the room for a few days before installation to allow it to adjust to the temperature and humidity of the room. This is especially important if you are installing in a basement or other area with higher humidity.

Lay the Laminate

Once the laminate is acclimated, you are ready to start laying it. Begin at one side of the room and use a chalk line to mark a straight line along the edge of the wall. Use this line to guide the installation of the laminate. Start with a full plank and make sure to leave a ¼ inch gap around the edges of the room. Use a tapping block and hammer to secure the planks together.

Cutting Laminate

When you come to an obstruction such as a door frame or a radiator, you will need to cut the laminate to fit. Measure the area and use a jigsaw to cut the laminate plank to size. Make sure to wear protective gear when cutting the laminate to avoid any accidents.

Finishing Touches

Once all the planks have been laid, you can add any finishing touches such as trim or baseboards. Make sure to use a spacer when installing the trim to ensure a gap between the laminate and the trim. This will help to prevent water damage and ensure a professional finish.

Conclusion

Laying laminate flooring can be a rewarding project and can add value to your home. By following the steps above, you can ensure that your laminate floor looks great and lasts for years. If you are unsure of any steps, it is best to consult a professional to ensure that your laminate is laid correctly.