Read our laminate installation essential tips to help you achieve a successful and professional-looking laminate floor installation.
Prepare the subfloor
Proper subfloor preparation is crucial for a smooth and durable laminate installation. Follow these steps:Clean and Level: Ensure the subfloor is clean, free of debris, and level. Remove any existing flooring and repair any cracks or uneven areas. A level subfloor ensures a uniform installation and prevents premature wear and damage.
Moisture Testing: Perform a moisture test on concrete subfloors to detect excessive moisture. High moisture levels can lead to warping or buckling of the laminate. Use a moisture meter to assess the moisture content and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for acceptable levels.
Acclimate the Laminate: Allow the laminate flooring to acclimate to the room's temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours before installation. This allows the planks to adjust to the conditions of the space, minimizing the risk of expansion or contraction after installation.
Laying laminate flooring tips: gather the right tools?
Having the proper tools on hand will make the installation process smoother and more efficient. Some essential tools include:Tape Measure and T-square: Accurate measurements are crucial for a precise installation. Use a tape measure and T-square to measure and mark the layout of the room, ensuring straight and properly aligned rows.
Underlayment: Install a suitable underlayment beneath the laminate flooring to provide cushioning, reduce noise, and improve moisture resistance. Choose an underlayment recommended by the laminate manufacturer for optimal performance.
Saw: A table saw or a circular saw with a fine-toothed blade is essential for cutting the laminate planks to fit around corners, doorways, and other obstacles.
Installation Kit: Invest in an installation kit that includes spacers, tapping block, and a pull bar. Spacers help maintain proper expansion gaps along the walls, while the tapping block and pull bar aid in fitting the planks tightly together.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions:
Every laminate flooring brand may have specific installation guidelines. It is crucial to carefully read and follow the manufacturer's instructions provided with the product.?Pay attention to details such as recommended acclimation periods, installation methods, and specific requirements for expansion gaps and underlayment.
Start with a Solid Foundation:
Begin the installation with a solid and straight starting row. This sets the foundation for the entire flooring project. Follow these steps:
Measure and Mark: Measure the width of the room and divide it by the width of a full plank. If the remainder is less than half the width of a plank, cut the first row accordingly to ensure a balanced appearance.
Install Spacers: Place spacers along the walls to maintain the required expansion gap. This gap allows the laminate to expand and contract with temperature and humidity changes.
Install the First Row: Lay the first row of planks with the groove side facing the wall. Use the tapping block and rubber mallet to ensure tight connections between the planks.
Stagger the Planks: For the subsequent rows, stagger the end joints by at least 12 inches for a more natural and visually appealing look. This also strengthens the overall floor structure.
Handle transitions & doorways?
Properly addressing transitions and doorways ensures a seamless and professional finish. Here are some tips:Install Transition Pieces: Use transition strips or moldings to cover the gaps between laminate flooring and different surfaces, such as doorways, baseboards, or other types of flooring. This creates a smooth and aesthetically pleasing transition between rooms.
Cut Door Jambs: When encountering door jambs, it's necessary to undercut them to allow the laminate planks to fit underneath. Use a handsaw or a jamb saw to carefully cut the door jambs at the height of the laminate flooring, ensuring a clean and precise fit.
Take time for finishing touches
To achieve a polished look, don't rush the finishing touches. Take the time to:Install Baseboards: After completing the laminate installation, reinstall or install new baseboards or molding to cover the expansion gap along the walls. This provides a neat and finished appearance.
Clean and Inspect: Thoroughly clean the installed laminate flooring, removing any adhesive residue or debris. Inspect the entire floor for any imperfections or loose planks. If necessary, use adhesive or reposition planks to ensure a secure and flawless result.
Add Floor Protectors: Place felt or rubber pads on furniture legs to prevent scratches and damage to the laminate flooring. This helps maintain its appearance and extends its lifespan.
Visit Big Carpet for quality laminate flooring in Farr West, UT
Installing laminate flooring can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to transform your space. However, it's important to follow proper techniques and guidelines to achieve a successful installation. At Big Carpet, we offer a wide selection of high-quality laminate flooring in Farr West, UT to suit your style and budget as well as expert installation experience.Give us a call or visit our showroom in Farr West, UT, and explore our range of laminate flooring options. Let our knowledgeable staff guide you through the selection process and offer valuable tips for a flawless installation. Trust Big Carpet for quality products and reliable service.
