How to Install Laminate Flooring: A Step-by-Step Guide

Installing laminate flooring can feel overwhelming at first, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right tools and clear instructions, you can upgrade your space and create a stunning new look. This guide will walk you through the installation process, ensuring you have everything you need to succeed.

1. Gather Your Materials and Tools

Before starting your laminate flooring installation, it’s important to make sure you’ve got all the necessary materials and tools ready to go. Being prepared from the outset will help the job go smoothly and avoid any unnecessary delays. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Laminate Flooring Panels: Make sure you’ve ordered enough to cover the full area, with around 10% extra to allow for cuts, mistakes, and future repairs.

  
  

• Underlay: Essential for cushioning, noise reduction and moisture protection. High-density foam or felt underlays are commonly used and provide a solid base.

  
  

• Cutting Tools: A fine-toothed hand saw, jigsaw, or circular saw is needed to trim planks to size—especially around door frames and edges.

  
  

• Basic Tools: You’ll need a tape measure, pencil, utility knife, spacers (for expansion gaps), hammer or rubber mallet, and a tapping block to ensure tight joints.

  
  

• Safety Gear: Don’t forget your safety goggles and gloves—cutting and installing can throw up dust and sharp edges.

  
  

Having everything to hand before you begin will make the whole installation process much more efficient and hassle-free.

2. Prepare the Room

Proper preparation is key to a successful flooring installation.

• Clear the Space: Remove all furniture and take off any existing flooring, if necessary.

  
  

• Clean the Subfloor: Take time to ensure the subfloor is completely dry, clean, and free of debris. Dust and dirt can affect the installation quality.

  
  

• Check for Moisture: Use a moisture meter to check the subfloor. A moisture level of less than 5% is ideal for laminate installation.

  
  

Installing laminate flooring over an underlay

3. Acclimatise the Flooring

Acclimating the laminate flooring is essential for preventing future issues.

• Timeframe: Lay all unopened boxes of flooring in the room for a minimum of 48 hours.

  
  

• Temperature: Keep the room temperature consistent between 60°F and 85°F. This will help the laminate adjust to the environment.

  
  

This step can significantly reduce the chances of expansion or contraction after installation, which is crucial for long-term durability.

4. Install the Underlay

With acclimatisation complete, it's time to lay down the underlay.

• Roll Out the Underlay: Start from one wall, unroll the underlay, and trim it to fit.

  
  

• Tape Down Seams: Secure seams with tape to maintain a smooth surface.

  
  

• Make Sure It’s Even: A flat and smooth underlayment ensures that the laminate lies evenly, avoiding bumps that can cause wear over time.

  
  

5. Plan the Layout

Planning your layout is a critical step for a professional look.

• Choose the Starting Point: Starting along the longest wall or a straight edge is often best.

  
  

• Dry Lay a Few Rows: Without locking them in, lay out a few rows of planks. This visual check can save you from layout mistakes.

  
  

• Consider Expansion Gaps: Leave about 1/4 inch of space between the laminate edges and walls to allow for expansion.

  
  

Laminate flooring being installed

6. Start Laying the Flooring

Now it's time for the fun part: laying the laminate flooring.

• Insert Spacers: Place spacers against the wall to maintain your expansion gaps.

  
  

• Begin with the First Plank: Lay the first plank down, ensuring it’s snug against the wall and spacers.

  
  

• Continue with Additional Planks: Engage the next plank by angling it and pressing down until it clicks into place with the first plank.

  
  

7. Cutting the Last Plank

When you approach the end of each row, cutting the final plank to fit will likely be necessary.

• Mark the Cut: Measure the remaining space and mark the plank accurately.

  
  

• Use a Saw for Cutting: Laminate flooring should be cut using a fine-toothed hand saw, jigsaw, or circular saw. This ensures clean, accurate cuts around corners, door frames, or to adjust plank lengths for a tight, professional finish.

  
  

8. Complete Each Row

Install each subsequent row using the same methods as before.

• Stagger Your Joints: A natural look is achieved by staggering the end joints of each row. Aim for at least 6 inches offset between end joints for better stability.

  
  

• Continue until Finished: Simply repeat the process until the entire area is beautifully covered.

  
  

9. Finishing Touches

With your flooring installed, the final steps are crucial for a polished look.

• Remove Spacers: Carefully take out the spacers that were used to maintain the expansion gap.

  
  

• Finish with Skirting or Beading: Refit the skirting boards or install scotia beading around the perimeter to neatly cover the expansion gaps and give the floor a polished, finished look.

  
  

• Cleaning Up: Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove dust and debris from the installation process.

  
  

Well-installed laminate flooring with matching baseboards.

Wrapping Up How to Install Laminate Flooring

Installing laminate flooring can greatly enhance your home’s look and functionality. By following this detailed step-by-step guide, you can achieve professional results and add to your home's value.

Remember, take your time, plan carefully, and enjoy the rewarding process of transforming your space! You’ll not only improve aesthetics but also create a durable floor that can stand the test of time. Now you know how to install laminate flooring.