Laying laminate flooring can be tricky if you don’t know what you’re doing. Many people make common mistakes that can ruin their new floors and cause frustration. The good news is, that by following a few simple steps, you can avoid the most common mistakes when laying laminate flooring. This article will guide you through these steps to ensure your project is a success.
In this article, you will learn:
- The key steps to properly prepare your floor before installation
- How to correctly install laminate flooring
- Tips for taking care of your new floor to keep it looking great
Let’s dive in and make sure your laminate flooring project goes smoothly from start to finish!
Preparation Mistakes
Proper preparation is key to a successful laminate flooring installation. Here are the most common preparation mistakes and how to avoid them:
Failing to Prepare the Subfloor
One of the biggest mistakes is not preparing the subfloor correctly. The subfloor needs to be clean, dry, and level. If the subfloor is not in good condition, your laminate flooring will not sit properly, leading to uneven surfaces and potential damage over time.
Solution:
- Clean the subfloor thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Ensure the subfloor is completely dry to prevent moisture damage.
- Use a level to check for any uneven spots and sand them down or fill them in as needed.
Not Allowing the Laminate to Acclimatize
Laminate flooring needs time to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity before installation. Skipping this step can cause the planks to expand or contract after installation, leading to gaps or buckling.
Solution:
- Leave the laminate flooring in the room where it will be installed for at least 48 hours before starting the installation. This allows the material to acclimatize to the room’s conditions.
Not Checking for Subfloor Moisture
Moisture in the subfloor can cause significant issues, including warping and mould growth. It’s essential to check for moisture before laying the laminate flooring.
Solution:
- Use a moisture meter to check the moisture levels in the subfloor. If the moisture level is too high, take steps to dry it out before proceeding with the installation.
Installation Mistakes
Installing laminate flooring correctly is crucial to ensure a beautiful and durable finish. Here are some common installation mistakes and how to avoid them:
Skipping the Manufacturer’s Instructions
Every laminate flooring product comes with specific instructions from the manufacturer. Ignoring these instructions can lead to improper installation and void any warranties.
Solution:
- Carefully read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions provided with your laminate flooring. This ensures you’re using the correct methods and materials for your specific product.
Using the Wrong Tools and Materials
Using incorrect tools or materials can damage the laminate flooring and result in a poor installation.
Solution:
- Ensure you have all the necessary tools, such as a saw, measuring tape, spacers, and a tapping block. Using the right materials, like the recommended underlay and vapour barrier, is also essential.
Laying the Floor in Moisture-Heavy Locations
Laminate flooring is not ideal for areas with high moisture, such as bathrooms or basements, as it can warp and swell.
Solution:
- Avoid installing laminate flooring in moisture-heavy locations. If you must install it in such areas, use a moisture-resistant laminate and proper sealing techniques.
Not Using an Underlay
An underlay is essential for laminate flooring as it provides cushioning, reduces noise, and acts as a moisture barrier.
Solution:
- Always use a high-quality underlay suitable for your specific type of laminate flooring. Lay the underlay smoothly and evenly across the subfloor before installing the laminate.
Not Using a Vapor Barrier When Needed
In areas where moisture is a concern, a vapour barrier is necessary to protect the laminate flooring from moisture damage.
Solution:
- Install a vapour barrier under the laminate flooring in areas prone to moisture, such as basements or kitchens. This extra layer helps prevent moisture from seeping into the laminate.
Not Leaving Room for Edge Expansion
Laminate flooring needs space to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity. Failing to leave an expansion gap can cause the floor to buckle.
Solution:
- Leave a small gap (usually about 1/4 inch) around the edges of the room when installing the laminate flooring. Use spacers to maintain a consistent gap.
Not Using Expansion Joints
In large rooms or areas where the laminate flooring extends into multiple rooms, expansion joints are necessary to allow for natural movement of the floor.
Solution:
- Install expansion joints where needed, especially in doorways and between large spaces. This helps accommodate the natural expansion and contraction of the flooring.
Laying Planks Straight from the Packet
Installing laminate planks directly from the packet without allowing them to acclimatize to the room’s environment can lead to problems.
Solution:
- Open the packets and let the planks sit in the room for at least 48 hours before installation. This helps the planks adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity.
Improper Installation of Underlay
Incorrectly installing the underlay can lead to uneven surfaces and reduce the effectiveness of the underlay.
Solution:
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for laying the underlay. Ensure it is laid flat and covers the entire subfloor without overlapping or gaps.
Post-Installation Mistakes
Once the laminate flooring is installed, proper care and finishing touches are essential to ensure longevity and a polished look. Here are some common post-installation mistakes and how to avoid them:
Not Caring for Your Flooring After Installation
After installing laminate flooring, proper care is crucial to maintain its appearance and durability. Neglecting this can lead to damage and reduced lifespan.
Solution:
- Regularly clean your laminate flooring with a damp mop and avoid using excessive water. Use furniture pads to prevent scratches and avoid dragging heavy objects across the floor.
Adding Fixtures and Fittings Immediately After Laying
Installing fixtures and fittings, such as baseboards or trim, immediately after laying the laminate can interfere with the floor’s natural expansion and contraction.
Solution:
- Allow the laminate flooring to settle for at least 24 hours before adding any fixtures or fittings. This ensures the floor has time to adjust and reduces the risk of buckling.
Neglecting Good Aftercare
Proper aftercare is essential to keep laminate flooring looking its best. Ignoring aftercare can lead to wear and tear.
Solution:
- Follow a regular maintenance routine, including sweeping or vacuuming to remove dirt and debris. Use laminate floor cleaners recommended by the manufacturer to avoid damaging the surface.
Conclusion
Properly laying laminate flooring requires attention to detail and following specific steps to avoid common mistakes. By preparing the subfloor, using the right tools and materials, and taking care of your flooring after installation, you can ensure a beautiful and long-lasting result.
To recap, here are the three most important takeaways:
- Preparation is key: Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level, and allow the laminate to acclimatize.
- Follow proper installation techniques: Use the correct tools, leave room for expansion, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Maintain your floor: Regular cleaning and proper aftercare will keep your laminate flooring looking great for years to come.
FAQs
Is there a wrong way to install laminate flooring?
Yes, there are several ways to incorrectly install laminate flooring, such as not preparing the subfloor properly, not leaving enough room for expansion, or skipping the manufacturer’s instructions. These mistakes can lead to problems like buckling, uneven surfaces, and damage over time.
Does it matter where you start laying laminate flooring?
Yes, it does matter. You should start laying laminate flooring from the left corner of the longest wall and work your way across the room. This helps ensure that the planks are installed evenly and that the joints are staggered correctly for stability.
What is a common problem with laminate flooring?
A common problem with laminate flooring is moisture damage. If the laminate is exposed to water or installed in high-moisture areas without proper precautions, it can warp, swell, or develop mould. Proper installation and maintenance are key to preventing these issues.
Should you always stagger laminate flooring?
Yes, you should always stagger the joints of laminate flooring. Staggering the planks not only enhances the appearance but also adds strength and stability to the floor. It prevents weak points where the joints align and help distribute weight more evenly across the floor.
