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Everything You Need to Know Before Laying Laminate Flooring
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Laminate flooring is a popular and affordable option for those who want the look of hardwood floors at low costs. However, installing laminate flooring can be a daunting task for DIY enthusiasts and first-time installers. From preparing the subfloor to laying the planks and adding finishing touches, there are many steps involved in the process.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through each step of the laminate flooring installation process with tips and tricks to help you achieve a professional-looking result. Whether you’re installing laminate flooring in a bedroom, living room, or kitchen, this guide will help you get started on the right foot.
Things to Consider Before Laying Laminate Flooring
Before installing laminate flooring, several important factors must be considered to ensure that the installation process goes smoothly and the flooring looks and functions great for years to come. Here are a few things to consider:
Budget: Determine your budget for the flooring project, including the cost of materials, installation, and any necessary tools or accessories.
Room Type: Consider the room where the flooring will be installed. Laminate flooring is suitable for most rooms but may not be the best choice for high-moisture areas like laundry rooms or bathrooms.
Subfloor: Ensure the subfloor is level, dry, and free of any debris before installing flooring. Any bumps or imperfections in the subfloor can affect the final result.
Underlayment: Consider installing an underlayment beneath the laminate flooring to provide cushioning, soundproofing, and moisture protection.
Traffic: Consider the amount of traffic the room will receive. Choose a laminate flooring with a wear layer that is suitable for the level of foot traffic in the room.
Colour and Style: Choose a laminate flooring colour and style that complements the room’s decor and your personal taste.
Installation Method: Choose the appropriate installation method for the laminate flooring, whether click-and-lock or glue-down.
Maintenance: Take the maintenance requirements into account, including cleaning and care instructions.
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Acclimatising The Laminate Flooring
Acclimatising laminate flooring is an important step in the installation process to prevent expansion or contraction of the planks after installation. Here’s how to properly acclimate laminate flooring:
Store the flooring in the room where it will be installed: Place the unopened boxes of laminate flooring in the room where it will be installed. Leave the boxes unopened for at least 48 hours to allow the planks to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity.
Maintain room temperature: During the acclimation period, maintain the room temperature at the same temperature that the room will be after installation. This will help the flooring adjust to the temperature and humidity of the room.
Maintain room humidity: During the acclimation period, maintain the room humidity at the same level that the room will be after installation. This will help the flooring adjust to the humidity of the room.
Stack the boxes: Stack the boxes of flooring horizontally on top of each other. This will allow air to circulate around the boxes and help the planks adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity.
Inspect the planks: After the acclimation period, inspect the planks for any warping, bowing, or other defects. If you notice any issues, return the defective planks to the manufacturer before installation.
Ideal Site Conditions for Laying Laminate Flooring
When laying the laminate flooring, it’s important to ensure that the site conditions are ideal to ensure that the flooring looks great and functions well. Here are some ideal site conditions to consider:
Moisture Levels:
Ensure that the moisture levels in the room are within the acceptable range for laminate flooring. Excessive moisture can cause the flooring to warp, buckle, or cup. Use a moisture meter to test the moisture levels in the room before installation.
Subfloor:
Ensure that the subfloor is level, dry, clean, and free of any debris. Any bumps or imperfections in the subfloor can affect the final result of the laminate flooring.
Temperature:
Ensure that the room temperature is within the recommended range for the laminate flooring. Sudden changes in temperature or humidity can cause the flooring to expand or contract, leading to gaps or buckling.
Acclimation:
Allow the flooring to acclimate to the humidity and the room temperature for at least 48 hours before installation. This will ensure the same humidity level and temperature for the flooring and the room, which can prevent expansion or contraction after installation.
Lighting:
Ensure that the lighting in the room is sufficient to inspect the flooring during installation. Proper lighting can help you identify any imperfections or issues before they become bigger problems.
Ventilation:
Ensure that the room has proper ventilation to prevent the buildup of moisture and humidity. Use fans or open windows to ensure proper ventilation during installation.
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Method of Installation of Laminate Flooring
The method of installation for laminate flooring depends on the type of locking system used by the manufacturer. However, here are the general steps for installing laminate flooring:
Prepare the Subfloor:
- Level the subfloor: Check the subfloor for any high spots or dips, and level it with a self-levelling compound if necessary.
- Dry the subfloor: Ensure that the subfloor is dry before installing the laminate flooring. Use a moisture meter to test the moisture content of the subfloor.
- Clean the subfloor: Clean the subfloor of any debris, such as dust or dirt, and remove any adhesive or residue.
Plan the Layout:
- Determine the direction of the planks: Consider the layout of the room and any natural light sources when determining the direction of the planks.
- Determine the pattern: If the laminate flooring has a pattern, determine how the pattern will align with the walls and other design elements in the room.
- Consider obstructions: Determine how the planks will fit around any obstructions, such as doorways or cabinets.
Install the First Row:
- Use spacers: Place spacers between the planks and the wall to create a gap of 1/4 inch to allow for expansion.
- Cut the planks: Cut the first plank in the first row to fit against the wall, leaving a 1/4-inch gap. Use the remaining cut-off piece to begin the next row.
- Secure the planks: Place the tongue of the first plank into the groove of the second plank and tap it together using a tapping block and hammer.
Install Subsequent Rows:
- Stagger the end joints: Stagger the end joints of the planks by at least 8 inches to create a random pattern and ensure that the planks are not cut to the same length.
- Use a tapping block: Use a tapping block and hammer to tap the planks together at the end joints.
- Use a pull bar: Use a pull bar and hammer to pull the planks together at the side joints.
- Use spacers: Place spacers between the planks and the wall to create a gap of 1/4 inch to allow for expansion.
Cut Planks:
- Measure and mark: Measure and mark the plank to be cut to fit around obstructions, such as doorways, vents, or pipes.
- Cut planks: Use a jigsaw or handsaw to cut the plank to fit around the obstruction.
Install the Last Row:
- Measure and cut the planks: Measure and cut the planks in the last row to fit against the wall, leaving a 1/4-inch gap.
- Secure the planks: Use a tapping block and hammer to tap the planks together at the end joints.
Install Trim and Moulding:
- Install baseboard trim or moulding: Install baseboard trim or moulding to cover the gap between the planks and the wall.
- Install transition strips: Install transition strips between the laminate flooring and any other flooring materials, such as carpet or tile.
Clean and Inspect:
- Clean the laminate flooring: Use a damp mop or cloth to clean the laminate flooring and remove any adhesive or residue.
- Inspect for defects: Inspect the laminate flooring for any defects or imperfections, such as scratches or chips.
