Installing laminate flooring can significantly upgrade the look and feel of a room. With the right preparation and tools, putting in new laminate floors is a project many homeowners can tackle themselves. Follow this DIY guide for tips on how to properly install laminate flooring in your home.
Choose the Right Laminate
There are many types of laminate flooring on the market with prices ranging from less than $1 per square foot up to $6 or more per square foot. Consider factors like thickness, durability rating (AC rating), texture, and simulated wood look when selecting planks. An AC3-rated laminate that is 12 mm thick is a good choice for most home installations. Calculate the square footage of your space before going to the store so you know exactly how much to purchase.
Prepare the Subfloor
A clean, flat, and dry subfloor is key to proper laminate floor installation. Sweep and vacuum the installation area to remove dirt, nails, staples and other debris. Use floor leveler compound to fill any holes or cracks in the subfloor greater than 3/16 inches. Test moisture levels – excessive moisture below the floors can ruin laminates over time. A common DIY technique involves taping a 2 ft x 2 ft plastic sheet to the floor overnight to check if condensation forms underneath, which indicates a moisture issue.
Install Vapor Barrier Paper
Before laying any planks, roll out a vapor barrier paper or film over the entire subfloor, leaving about 1/4 inch extra paper around the perimeter. The vapor barrier prevents moisture from seeping up into the laminate boards. Tape down the edges so the paper stays securely in place as you install the flooring.
Allow Proper Expansion Space
One of the keys to laminate floor installation success is allowing 1/4 to 1/2 inch expansion space around the perimeter to accommodate natural floor movement. Take measurements at multiple spots along the wall since most walls are not perfectly straight. When laying boards, use spacers to maintain proper clearance. Do not nail or adhere planks directly against walls.
Snap Together Planks
Start in a corner by placing spacers along walls and connecting short and long side joints of the first row of planks together on top of the vapor barrier. Use a rubber mallet and tapping block to securely snap tongue and groove boards together. Avoid hitting plank edges directly with the mallet. Work outward from the first row, staggering joints at least 6 inches between rows. Cut boards as needed to fit using a jigsaw or circular saw.
Install Under The Door Jamb
Use a piece of matching laminate flooring to establish the correct height for undercutting the door jamb to allow the new flooring to move freely underneath. Cut through the door jamb with a handsaw or oscillating tool and remove interior trim pieces as needed. Slide boards under pre-cut jambs and re-install trim.
Finish With Transitions And Moldings
Apply silicone caulk along the 1/4 inch expansion gap left around the edges of the room. Install matching laminate quarter round molding using finish nails to cover expansion spaces once caulked. Transitions are useful for adapting height differences, joining laminates between rooms, or changing floor types.
Final Words
Once all boards are locked in place, the installation is complete! Sweep away any lingering dust and enjoy your DIY laminate floor makeover. With minimal tools and the right techniques, installing laminates is an achievable weekend project for savvy homeowners.