Step 3: Prepare the Floor
Step 4: Acclimate the Laminate Planks
As with any home improvement project, prepping the surface is one of the most important steps. Start by removing old flooring. The exception here is vinyl flooring. Laminate planks can usually be installed over the top of vinyl if the laminate flooring creates a “floating floor”, which means the planks aren’t nailed into place. When installing laminate flooring, the surface needs to be clear of projecting nails, staples, or other elevated materials. Any lumps or dips can cause the laminate to buckle, separating at the seams. Therefore, it’s essential the surface is as smooth and flat as possible. Fill holes in subflooring and patch cracks in cement. Use a long level to ensure the subfloor is even. If there are any uneven areas, fill them with a floor-leveling compound and allow it to dry completely.
Laminate flooring has a tendency to expand and contract in different environments. For best results, bring the boxes of laminate planks into the room where they will be installed and leave them for 48-72 hours. This allows the planks to acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity, reducing the chance of warping or gaps later on.
Step 5: Install Underlayment
If your laminate flooring does not have a pre- attached underlayment, roll out the underlayment across the entire floor, ensuring it covers all areas. Trim any excess material with a utility knife. Make sure to tape the seams according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Step 6: Plan the Layout
Planks can lay in either direction, and it’s often a matter of preference. However, the eye naturally follows the length of the plank so typically, planks are installed parallel to the longest wall or the main light source. Think about how the flooring will connect to other rooms when making your decision. Before laying the first row, measure the width of the room and divide it by the width of your planks. If the last row leaves less than two inches of a plank, consider trimming the first row to ensure a balanced look.
20
HOME SWEET HOME Magazine
Powered by FlippingBook