Installing laminate flooring can significantly enhance the look and feel of a room. With the right preparation and tools, putting in new laminate flooring is a project many homeowners can tackle themselves. Follow this step-by-step 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 under £10 per square metre to over £40 per square metre. When choosing planks, consider thickness, durability (AC rating), texture and wood-effect style. A 12 mm thick laminate with an AC3 rating is a solid choice for most domestic installations. Calculate the area in square metres before heading to the shop so you know how much to buy.
Prepare the Subfloor
A clean, flat and dry subfloor is essential for a successful installation. Sweep and vacuum the area to remove dust, nails, staples or other debris. Fill any holes or cracks greater than 5 mm with a floor levelling compound.
To check for excess moisture, tape a 60 cm x 60 cm sheet of plastic to the floor and leave it overnight. If condensation forms underneath, it may indicate a damp issue that needs addressing before continuing.
Install Vapour Barrier
Before laying planks, roll out a vapour barrier sheet or film across the entire subfloor, leaving an extra 6 mm around the edges. The vapour barrier helps prevent moisture from rising into the laminate. Tape the seams and edges to keep the barrier securely in place.
Allow for Expansion Gaps
One of the keys to laminate installation success is leaving a 6–12 mm expansion gap around the edges of the room. This allows for natural movement caused by temperature or humidity changes. Use spacers to maintain the gap and remember not to fix boards directly to the wall.
Snap Together the Planks
Begin in one corner, placing spacers along the walls, and connect the short and long edges of the planks on top of the vapour barrier. Use a rubber mallet and tapping block to click boards securely together — never strike the edges directly.
Stagger the joints by at least 150 mm between rows, and cut boards as needed using a jigsaw or circular saw.
Fit Under the Door Frame
Use a piece of laminate to mark the correct cutting height on the door frame. Use a hand saw or multi-tool to carefully undercut the frame, allowing the laminate to slide underneath. Remove any architrave or skirting as needed, then reinstall once the boards are laid.
Finish with Transitions and Mouldings
Apply flexible sealant into the 6 mm expansion gap around the perimeter. Install matching laminate beading or quarter-round moulding using finishing nails to conceal the gap.
Use transition strips where laminate meets other floor types or in doorways between rooms to allow for expansion and level differences.
Final Steps
Once all the boards are securely locked into place, give the floor a final sweep to remove dust and debris.
Enjoy your brand-new laminate flooring! With the right tools and a bit of patience, this DIY weekend job is a rewarding way to transform your home.