How To Lay Down Laminate Flooring: A Step-By-Step Guide

Laminate flooring can be an attractive and durable addition to any home. It’s easy to clean and maintain, and it can last for years. But before you can enjoy the benefits of this type of flooring, you need to know how to lay it down correctly. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll have a beautiful laminate floor in no time.

Things You’ll Need

Installing laminate flooring is easy, but you’ll need a few supplies before you get started. You’ll need laminate flooring, underlayment, a utility knife, a tapping block, a hammer, a pull bar, spacers, and a level.

Step 1: Prepare the Subfloor

Before you lay down the laminate flooring, it’s important to make sure that the subfloor is clean and level. Start by sweeping the floor to remove any dirt or debris. Then, use a level to check that the floor is even. If there are any dips or bumps, use a self-leveling compound to even it out.

Step 2: Lay Down the Underlayment

Once the subfloor is prepped, you can start laying down the underlayment. This is a thin layer of foam or plastic that will provide cushion and insulation for the laminate flooring. Start in the corner of the room and unroll the underlayment, making sure it’s placed flat against the floor. Use a utility knife to trim the edges, if necessary.

Step 3: Place the Laminate Flooring

Now you’re ready to start laying down the laminate flooring. Begin in the corner of the room and work your way out. Use spacers to make sure the planks are evenly spaced. When you reach the end of a row, use a tapping block and hammer to fit the planks together. If the planks don’t fit together, use a pull bar to make sure they are tightly connected.

Step 4: Cut the Laminate Flooring

Once you’ve laid down the planks, you may need to cut them to fit around obstacles such as doorways or wall corners. Use a utility knife to make the cuts, being careful not to cut too deeply. Make sure the cut pieces fit correctly before continuing.

Step 5: Install the Transition Pieces

The transition pieces are the pieces that will go between the laminate flooring and other flooring types, such as carpet or tile. Measure the gap and cut the transition piece to size. Then, use a hammer and tapping block to fit the transition piece into place.

Step 6: Clean Up and Enjoy

Once you’ve finished laying down the laminate flooring, it’s important to clean up any debris or dust. Vacuum the floor and wipe down any surfaces to make sure the floor looks its best. Now you can enjoy the beauty and durability of your new laminate floor.