Conquer Your Flooring Project: How to Install Laminate Flooring Yourself
Ready to transform your home and save money in the process?
Installing laminate flooring yourself is easier than you might think! We’ll show you step-by-step how to install your new laminate yourself. When you’re ready, shop at Flooring Attic online for beautiful laminate floors. We will ship your new floors within 24 hours!
Before You Begin: Preparation is Key
Gather Your Tools & Materials
- Laminate Flooring: Calculate the square footage of your room and add 10% for waste to determine the amount of flooring needed.
- Underlayment: Choose an underlayment appropriate for your subfloor and laminate flooring type.
- Moisture Barrier: If installing over concrete, a moisture barrier is essential.
- Measuring Tape: For accurate measurements.
- Utility Knife: For cutting the laminate planks.
- Jigsaw or Circular Saw: For cutting around obstacles or intricate shapes.
- Tapping Block and Pull Bar: To ensure tight seams between planks.
- Spacers: To maintain expansion gaps along walls.
- Hammer: For tapping planks into place.
- Safety Glasses and Gloves: For protection during installation.
Prepare the Subfloor
Clean and Level: Ensure your subfloor is clean, level, and free of debris. Any unevenness can affect the stability and appearance of your laminate flooring.
Moisture Barrier: If installing over concrete, lay down a moisture barrier to prevent moisture from seeping into the laminate.
Acclimate Your Laminate Floors
Bring your laminate flooring into the room where it will be installed and let it acclimate for at least 48 hours. This allows the planks to adjust to the temperature and humidity, minimizing expansion or contraction after installation.
Step-by-Step Laminate Flooring Installation
Step 1: Install Underlayment
- Roll it Out: Roll out the underlayment perpendicular to the direction you plan to lay the laminate planks. Overlap the seams by a few inches and tape them securely.
- Trim Excess: Trim the underlayment to fit the room, leaving a small gap along the walls.
Step 2: Start the First Row
- Choose a Starting Wall: Choose a straight wall to begin your installation.
- Place Spacers: Place spacers along the wall to create an expansion gap of about ¼ inch. This allows the flooring to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity without buckling.
- Install the First Plank: Place the first plank against the spacers, with the tongue side facing the wall.
Step 3: Complete the First Row
- Connect Planks: Connect the next plank to the first plank by angling the tongue into the groove and pressing down until it clicks into place.
- Continue Connecting: Continue connecting planks to complete the first row.
- Trim the Last Plank: Measure and trim the last plank in the row to fit, ensuring you maintain the expansion gap at the end of the row.
Step 4: Start the Second Row
- Stagger the Joints: Start the second row with a plank that's cut to a different length than the first row's planks. This staggers the joints, creating a stronger and more visually appealing floor.
- Angle and Connect: Angle the tongue of the second-row plank into the groove of the first-row plank and press down until it clicks into place.
- Continue Connecting: Continue connecting planks to complete the second row.
Step 5: Continue Installing Rows
- Repeat the Process: Repeat the process of installing rows, ensuring you stagger the joints and maintain expansion gaps along the walls.
- Use a Tapping Block: If planks are difficult to connect, use a tapping block and hammer to gently tap them into place.
- Use a Pull Bar: For planks near the wall, use a pull bar to connect them securely.
Step 6: Install the Last Row
- Measure and Trim: Measure and trim the planks in the last row to fit, maintaining the expansion gap along the wall.
- Use a Pull Bar: Use a pull bar to connect the planks in the last row securely.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
- Remove Spacers: Remove the spacers along the walls.
- Install Transitions: Install transition strips at doorways and other areas where the laminate flooring meets different surfaces.
- Install Moldings: Install baseboards or quarter-round molding to cover the expansion gaps along the walls and create a finished look.
Tips for a Successful DIY Laminate Flooring Installation
- Read the Manufacturer's Instructions: Carefully read the manufacturer's instructions for your specific laminate flooring product.
- Start in a Corner: Starting in a corner or along a straight wall makes the installation process easier.
- Work in Small Sections: Install the flooring in small sections to ensure proper alignment and prevent mistakes.
- Use the Right Tools: Using the correct tools, such as a tapping block and pull bar, can prevent damage to the planks and ensure a secure installation.
- Take Your Time: Don't rush the installation process. Take your time to ensure each plank is properly connected and aligned.
Laminate Flooring Installation FAQs
Can a beginner lay laminate flooring?
Yes, laminate flooring is a popular DIY project for beginners due to its relatively easy installation. Many laminate planks feature click-lock systems that allow for straightforward assembly without requiring glue or nails. However, a smooth and level subfloor is essential, and beginners should carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions for optimal results.
What should I put down before laminate flooring?
Before installing laminate flooring, it's essential to put down an underlayment. This thin layer of material serves several purposes: it provides moisture protection, reduces noise, adds cushioning, and helps smooth out minor subfloor imperfections. Common underlayment choices include foam, cork, and felt, each offering different levels of moisture resistance, sound absorption, and comfort.
Is there a wrong way to lay laminate flooring?
Yes, there are definitely wrong ways to lay laminate flooring! Incorrect installation can lead to unevenness, gaps, buckling, and even moisture damage. Common mistakes include improper subfloor preparation, neglecting expansion gaps, and failing to acclimate the planks before installation. Following manufacturer instructions and considering professional installation can help avoid these issues and ensure a beautiful, long-lasting floor.
Does it matter which side you start laminate flooring?
Yes, it often matters which direction you start laying laminate flooring. It's generally recommended to install planks parallel to the longest wall or the primary source of natural light in the room. This creates a more visually appealing flow and can make the space feel larger. However, consider doorways, hallways, and the overall layout of your space to ensure a smooth and aesthetically pleasing installation.
How soon can you walk on laminate flooring after installation?
With most laminate flooring installations, especially those using a click-lock system, you can walk on the floor immediately after installation. However, it's best to avoid heavy furniture or concentrated weight for at least 24 hours to allow the flooring to settle properly. Always follow the specific manufacturer's recommendations for your chosen laminate product.
Are You Ready to Tackle Your Laminate Project?
Installing laminate flooring yourself can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to transform your home. By following this guide and taking the time to prepare your subfloor and gather the necessary tools, you can achieve a professional-looking installation that enhances the beauty and functionality of your space.
Call Flooring Attic, a part of Atlanta Flooring Design Centers, to explore our wide selection of laminate flooring options and get expert advice for your DIY installation. With 14 locations and over 39 years of experience, Atlanta Flooring Design Centers is a Top 10 Independent Flooring Retailer, dedicated to providing exceptional service and expertise to homeowners. Our knowledgeable team can help you choose the perfect laminate flooring, provide you with the necessary tools and materials, and offer valuable tips and guidance for a successful DIY installation.