Laminate wood flooring is an excellent choice for homeowners who want the look of hardwood floors without the high cost. It is also relatively easy to install, even for those who are not experienced with DIY projects. If you are considering installing laminate wood flooring in your home, here are some tips on how to do it like a pro.
Step 1: Acclimate the Flooring
Laminate wood flooring needs to acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours before installation. This process allows the planks to adjust to the environment and reduce the risk of warping or expanding later on. Place the unopened boxes of flooring in the room and keep them off the ground, stacking them no more than three boxes high.
Step 2: Measure and Cut
Measure the length and width of the room to determine how much flooring you need. It’s always best to buy extra, just in case. Use a saw to cut the planks to the right size, leaving a quarter-inch gap between the flooring and the walls to allow for expansion. When cutting, make sure to wear protective goggles and earplugs.
Step 3: Lay the Underlayment:
Lay down a foam or cork underlayment over the subfloor before installing the laminate floors. This will help reduce noise and cushion the floor. Cut the underlayment to fit the room, overlapping the seams by about an inch. Secure it in place using masking tape.
Step 4: Install the First Row
Start in the corner of the room and lay the first row of planks with the tongue facing out. Use spacers to maintain the quarter-inch gap between the planks and the wall. Snap the planks together, making sure they are tight and level. Use a saw to cut the last plank in the row to fit.
Step 5: Continue Installing
Continue installing the planks row by row, making sure to stagger the end joints by at least six inches between rows. Snap each plank in place, making sure they are level and tightly connected. Once you reach the last row, cut the planks to fit and install them as you did with the previous rows.
Conclusion:
Installing laminate wood flooring is a relatively simple process that can be done by anyone with some DIY experience. By following these tips, you can install the flooring like a pro and enjoy the look and feel of hardwood floors in your home.