Are you planning to install laminate flooring in your home or office but don’t know where to start? Don’t worry; in this post, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to install laminate flooring like a pro.
Introduction
A lot of homeowners prefer laminate flooring because of its durability, affordability, and simplicity of upkeep. The laminate flooring installation can be a DIY project if you have some basic carpentry skills and the right tools. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of installing laminate flooring step-by-step, so you can achieve a professional finish.
Benefits of Laminate Flooring
Before we jump into the installation process, let’s discuss the benefits of laminate flooring. Laminate flooring is a cost-effective alternative to hardwood flooring and offers the following benefits:
Easy to clean and maintain
Durable and scratch-resistant
Resistant to fading and staining
A variety of colors and styles are available.
Easy to install
Suitable for most rooms, including kitchens and bathrooms
Things to Consider Before You Start
Preparing the Subfloor
The first step in installing laminate flooring is to prepare the subfloor. The subfloor needs to be level, clean, and dry. You must apply a self-leveling product to level out an uneven subfloor.
Installing the Underlayment
You can install the underlayment once the subfloor has been cleaned and ready. The underlayment provides a smooth and stable surface for the laminate flooring. You can use foam, cork, or felt underlayment.
Measuring and Cutting the Laminate Flooring
Before you start installing the laminate flooring, you need to measure the room’s dimensions and calculate how much laminate flooring you’ll need. When measuring, make sure to add 10% extra to account for waste.
Installing the First Row
To install the first row of laminate flooring, you’ll need to lay out the planks parallel to the longest wall in the room. To allow for expansion, leave a 1/4-inch space between the planks and the wall.
Start in the corner of the room and use spacers to maintain the gap between the planks and the wall. Use a pull bar and a tapping block to lock the planks together.
Installing the Remaining Rows
Once you’ve installed the first row, you can start installing the remaining rows. Stagger the planks in a brick pattern to create a more natural look.
To keep the space between the boards and the wall open, use spacers. Use a tapping block and a pull bar to lock the planks together.
Fitting the Last Row
When you reach the last row, you’ll need to measure and cut the planks to fit. Use a handsaw or a jigsaw to cut the planks to the right size.
Use a pry bar to gently lift the planks and fit them into place. Make sure to maintain the 1/4-inch gap between the planks and the wall.
Cutting and Installing the Door Jambs
To install laminate flooring around door jambs, you’ll need to cut the planks to fit around them. Use a handsaw or a jigsaw to cut the planks to the right size.
Use adhesive tape to hold the planks in place and then slide them under the door jamb. Remove the adhesive tape once the planks are in place.
Installing the Baseboards and Trims
Once you’ve installed the laminate flooring, you can install the baseboards and trims. Use nails or adhesive to secure them to the wall.
Make sure to leave a small gap between the baseboard and the laminate flooring to allow for expansion. Use caulking to fill in any gaps between the baseboard and the wall.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to help you install laminate flooring like a pro:
Use a circular saw with a fine-toothed blade for cleaner cuts.
Always wear safety glasses and ear protection when using power tools.
Make sure to use spacers to maintain the gap between the planks and the wall.
Use a tapping block and a pull bar to lock the planks together.
Stagger the planks in a brick pattern to create a more natural look.
Conclusion
Installing laminate flooring is a DIY project that can save you money and give your home a fresh new look. By following the step-by-step guide we’ve provided in this article, you can install laminate flooring like a pro.
Remember to prepare the subfloor, install the underlayment, measure and cut the laminate flooring, install the first row, install the remaining rows, fit the last row, cut and install the door jambs, and install the baseboards and trims.