You can’t do it. It isn’t very easy! Those are the words of people who don’t want you to read this quick starter guide on how to install laminate flooring. You will finally be ready to do it at the end of this blog.
How much does it cost to install laminate floor? What do I need to install laminate flooring? We googled all questions because we felt lucky to do it ourselves or because we just wanted to save some extra money. Check out what you need to know for easy-to-install flooring:
Step By Step Guide
Measurements
You will want to know how many laminate planks you need to cover the area.
To do so, you can start by calculating the room’s surface area by multiplying the linear footage of the room’s width by the linear footage of the room’s length. After that, add 10 to 15 percent for any waste or mistakes you might encounter.
Now, divide the area plus 10 percent by the square feet measurement on the laminate box you want to buy. Finally, you will know how many boxes you should buy.
Remove any trace of other materials.
A clean, smooth, level floor is necessary. Molding, baseboards, or previous floors should be removed first.
Prepare the base floor. | How to install laminate flooring
Acclimation, an underlay, and a vapor barrier might be needed.
Some specialists recommend installing an underlay to avoid heavy sounds, get a thermal barrier, and make it more comfortable. Make sure they are distinct when installing. A vapor barrier can be a good idea if you are installing over concrete.
Tip! Take off the laminate plank and wait 48 hours to acclimate the flooring to the conditions of the space.
Let’s place the first planks.
Cut the trim around the doorways or the laminate planks to make them fit in.
Sometimes it can be easier to cut the trim under the doorway carefully. Another option is to cut the laminate plank, which can be done with a table saw, miter saw, circular saw, hand saw, or laminate cutter.
Make sure to position the first plank with the trimmed edges facing the wall and flush to a corner of the room. Begin laying the first row on the longest wall.
For greater accuracy, it is a good idea to draw a chalk line where the groove edge will be on the first row, starting from the right to the left. In order to make sure the planks stay together, manufacturers recommend using a hammer or a tapping block to make sure they stay together.
Install the rest of the planks
The remaining laminate planks you cut at the end of the first row will start the next row, always longer than 1 foot. If it’s not, start the row with a plank cut to a length greater than 1 foot. Make sure to match tongues to grooves.
Installing the last row
Slowly slide the laminate planks, making sure to leave a ¼-inch space gap between the wall and the last row.
How To Cut The Laminate Flooring
Before actually cutting the planks, it can be seen as an impossible job. A task for professionals only. Following these tips, you should be able to do it in the blink of an eye. Remember, the cut edges will end up hidden, so your cutting technique does not have to be perfect.
Do not worry about the equipment; there are multiple options you can use to get the excellent result you are looking for. A table saw is a great option; a circular saw can also work. Some other alternatives are a miter saw, a hand saw, or a laminate cutter.
Once you have measured and know where to cut, the rest will be very straightforward.
Benefits of Laminate Flooring
Durable
Laminate is a strong, scratch-resistant, and highly durable floor surface. They are protected with a tough outer shell and resin coating. Perfect for high-traffic areas and homes with pets and children.
Easy to Install
Laminate is easy to install than other types of flooring. This is because the boards are designed to work together and are very easy to operate. Additionally, laminate can “float” over most existing floors, saving installation time over other floors requiring gluing, stapling, or nailing. Installation is effortless, and most people can do it themselves—an excellent project for DIY enthusiasts.
Great Price | How to install laminate flooring
Laminate floors are less expensive than traditional hardwoods, but they are by no means inferior in appearance and quality. We have a wide range of laminate floors in all price ranges.
Different Stylish Options
Laminate floors are available in various wood, stone, and tile finishes. These are available in multiple colors, finishes, thicknesses, and board styles.
Easy Maintenance | How to install laminate flooring
The moisture- and stain-repellent surface of laminate flooring makes cleaning up spills a breeze. No special cleaners are needed to keep laminate floors looking their best. Daily cleaning is just that!
Non-allergenic
Laminate flooring is a good choice as it has nowhere to collect dust and other particles that can cause allergies in some people. Underlays form a moisture barrier that not only protects floors from damage but also prevents the formation of mold and spores.
Get Professional Assistance
This is great! Now that you know how to install laminate flooring, taking care of your next flooring installation should go smoothly. Just remember to prep the floor well, follow every step of the guide, and enjoy fantastic, high-quality results.
If you need extra help, an experienced professional is always someone to count on. All you will need to take care of later is to keep it shiny and beautiful.