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

Laminate flooring is one of the most popular flooring choices for homeowners due to its affordability, durability, and easy installation. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or tackling your first flooring project, this guide will walk you through how to lay laminate flooring like a pro.

Why Choose Laminate Flooring?

Before we dive into the installation process, let’s go over some key benefits of laminate flooring:

Affordable: Costs significantly less than hardwood while providing a similar aesthetic.
Durable: Scratch-resistant, water-resistant options available, and suitable for high-traffic areas.
Easy Installation: Click-lock system allows for a floating floor, eliminating the need for nails or glue.
Low Maintenance: Simple to clean and maintain with regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping.

Tools & Materials You’ll Need

Before getting started, gather these essential tools and materials:

Laminate flooring planks
Underlayment (if not pre-attached)
Tape measure
Spacers
Utility knife
Flooring installation kit (including a tapping block and pull bar)
Circular saw or jigsaw
Rubber mallet
Pencil and chalk line
Level
Moisture barrier (for concrete subfloors)

Step 1: Prepare the Subfloor

A smooth and clean subfloor is key to a successful installation. Follow these steps to prepare the area:

Remove old flooring, baseboards, and any nails or staples.
Clean the subfloor thoroughly to remove dust and debris.
Check for levelness; use a leveling compound if necessary.
If installing over concrete, lay a moisture barrier to prevent damage.

Step 2: Acclimate the Laminate Flooring

Laminate planks need to adjust to the temperature and humidity of your home. Let them sit in the room where they will be installed for at least 48 hours before installation.

Step 3: Install the Underlayment

If your laminate flooring does not come with a pre-attached underlayment, roll out the underlayment and secure it with tape. This provides a cushion, reduces noise, and prevents moisture damage.

Step 4: Plan Your Layout

Measure the room and determine the best direction for the planks (usually parallel to the longest wall or towards natural light sources).
Stagger the joints by at least 12 inches to create a natural appearance and improve stability.

Step 5: Begin Laying the Laminate Flooring

Start with spacers: Place spacers along the walls to allow for expansion (typically 1/4 inch gap).
Lay the first row: Begin in a corner and work left to right, connecting planks with the click-lock system.
Cut planks as needed: Use a circular saw or jigsaw to cut the last plank in the row to fit.
Continue with the next rows: Stagger the joints and gently tap planks together using a tapping block and rubber mallet.
Work around obstacles: For doorways and odd corners, measure and cut planks carefully to fit.

Step 6: Install the Final Row & Remove Spacers

When you reach the last row, you may need to rip cut the planks to fit. Once installed, remove the spacers along the walls.

Step 7: Reinstall Baseboards & Clean Up

Reattach baseboards to cover the expansion gap.
Use a vacuum or damp mop to remove dust and debris.
Enjoy your brand-new laminate flooring!

Final Tips for a Professional Finish

✔️ Always check manufacturer instructions for specific product requirements.
✔️ Keep extra planks for future repairs.
✔️ Avoid excessive water when cleaning laminate floors.

By following these steps, you’ll achieve a flawless laminate flooring installation that looks stunning and lasts for years. If you need professional assistance, FLOORecki is here to help with expert flooring installation services! Contact us today for a free consultation.

Need professional flooring services? Get in touch with FLOORecki today and let our experts handle your flooring project with precision and care!