Decided to give your home a fresh new look? Chosen the perfect laminate flooring? Great choice. Now it’s time to tackle the installation, which can be tricky if you don’t approach it the right way.
So before you dive headfirst into the project, let’s take a moment to explore the secrets to a flawless finish. There are some ins and outs of laminate flooring installation, from choosing the right underlayment to avoiding common pitfalls. Let’s discuss them in detail.
Preparation is Key
Before you even start laying the planks, proper preparation is essential. Start by clearing the room and removing any furniture and baseboards. Ensure the floor is clean, level, and free of debris. If your floor isn’t level, use a self-leveling compound to create a smooth surface.
It’s also important to acclimate the laminate planks to your home’s environment for at least 48 hours before installation. This allows the planks to adjust to the temperature and humidity. Preparing yourself well and avoiding any common mistakes when laying laminate flooring will result in a fine finish.
Choose the Right Underlayment
A good underlayment is essential for a successful laminate flooring installation. It provides insulation, soundproofing, and cushioning for the planks. The type of underlayment you choose will depend on the condition of your subfloor and your specific needs. Consider options like foam underlayment, cork underlayment, or vapor barriers.
Start at the Corner
When laying the planks, it’s generally recommended to start in a corner of the room. This allows you to work towards the doorway and avoid having to cut planks at the end. Begin by laying the first plank against a wall and securing it with a locking system. Continue laying the planks in rows, ensuring they are properly aligned and locked together.
Cutting and Fitting
You’ll likely need to cut planks to fit around doorways, corners, or other obstacles. Use a circular saw with a fine-tooth blade for precise cuts. Be sure to measure carefully to avoid making mistakes. When fitting planks around corners or obstacles, it’s often necessary to use a transition strip to create a smooth transition between the planks and the wall or other elements.
Staggering the Seams
To create a visually appealing floor, it’s important to stagger the seams between rows. This prevents the plank from aligning in a straight line, which can weaken the floor over time. Aim to stagger the seams by at least a few planks between rows.
Finishing Touches
Once you’ve completed the installation, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Install baseboards or trim to cover the gaps along the edges of the flooring. If desired, you can also add transition strips between different flooring types. Finally, clean the floor properly to remove any dust or debris.
Laminate Flooring Maintenance to Keep It Looking Great
Once you’ve successfully installed your laminate flooring, it’s important to maintain it properly to ensure its longevity and beauty. Let’s see some tips to keep your laminate floors looking their best.
Protect from Moisture
Laminate flooring is susceptible to moisture damage. Avoid placing rugs or mats that are backed with rubber or vinyl, as these materials can trap moisture. If you have a pet, be sure to clean up any spills or accidents promptly.
Avoid Scuffs and Scratches
To prevent scuffs and scratches, use felt pads under furniture legs and avoid dragging heavy objects across the floor. If you do get a scratch, you can fix it with a laminate flooring repair kit.
Protect from Sunlight
Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause laminate flooring to fade. If possible, use curtains or blinds to protect your floors from excessive sunlight. Avoiding harsh sunlight can also extend the life of your flooring.
Professional Cleaning
For deeper cleaning or to remove stubborn stains, consider hiring a professional cleaning service. They have specialized equipment and cleaning solutions that can restore your laminate flooring to its original luster.
Closing Remarks
While it seems like a challenge at first, installing laminate flooring can be an enjoyable task. You just need to be prepared well, pick the right underlayment, start from the corner, avoid common errors, and give your flooring the right finishing touch. If you don’t want to take on the project on your own, there are experts who are just a call away. So go ahead and update your space with a stylish look for years to come.
