Installing laminate flooring is a great way to give your home a stylish makeover without breaking the bank. To complete the job properly, an essential tool is the tapping block. The tapping block is a tool used to protect the planks when joining them together. To ensure that your flooring looks perfect when completed, it is important to use the tapping block correctly. Read on to find out more about tapping blocks and how to use them for your laminate flooring.
What is a Tapping Block?
A tapping block is a tool used when laying laminate flooring. It is a flat block of plastic or wood with a rubber head on one end. The other end of the block has a handle for easy use. The tapping block is designed to fit between the tongues of the planks when you are joining them together. This prevents damage to the planks from the hammer used to secure them.
Using the Tapping Block
Once you have the planks lined up, insert the tapping block between the tongues of the two planks. Make sure the rubber head of the block is on the tongue of the plank you are joining. Use a hammer to tap the tapping block gently until the planks click together. The hammer should not hit the tongue directly, as this can cause damage. Once the planks are joined together, remove the tapping block and move onto the next plank.
Tips for Using a Tapping Block
When using a tapping block, it is important to take care. Here are some tips for using a tapping block correctly:
- Always wear protective gloves when using a tapping block to protect your hands.
- Make sure the rubber head of the tapping block is on the tongue of the plank.
- Use a hammer with a soft head to avoid damage to the planks.
- Tap the block gently and evenly to ensure a secure join.
- Check the planks are properly secured before continuing with the installation.
Advantages of Using a Tapping Block
Using a tapping block is essential when laying laminate flooring. The main advantage of using a tapping block is that it prevents damage to the planks. By using the tapping block, you are ensuring that the planks are securely joined together. This will also help to prevent gaps between the planks and make the flooring look neat and professional.
Conclusion
The tapping block is an essential tool for installing laminate flooring. It is designed to fit between the tongues of the planks to protect them from the hammer used to secure them. By using the tapping block correctly, you can be sure that the planks are properly joined together and your flooring looks perfect when completed.
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