How to Install a Laminate Floor
Posted on January 1st, 2009 by monsterguide
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Installing the flooring of your house is very easy. There are different types of flooring you can use. Laminated flooring is the type of flooring that simulates marble, wood or granite.
Laminated floors usually have an inner and outer core. It is composed of plastic or wood veneer. It can be installed on top of an existing floor. This is possible as long as the floor is solid and flat. You can use an underlayment or foam pads to minimize the noise.
It is best to measure the area you will be working on before you buy laminated flooring. Measure the proximity where you will install it accurately. You then add 10% to that.
This will be the total allowance for wastage. You can buy the regular type that uses glue to attach the floor together.
One possible alternative is the glue-less variety. You will only snap the floor together like a puzzle. Make sure you remember to check the door clearances for the area covered.
It is also imperative to allot 1/4 of an inch between the wall and the laminate floor. This is for unexpected expansion. This should be done if you will be installing this into the whole area.
Clean the surface of any debris before installing the underlayment. The underlayment not only minimizes the noise but also offer protection against moisture. It can also allow you to walk more comfortably.
These can be bought in a large roll or separate pieces. Make sure you do not overlap the underlayment. You also need to tape the pieces together. This will prevent it from moving.
Installing the underlayment requires you to initially apply a polyethylene plastic vapor whenever you intend to install your laminated floor on top of a concrete slab. Store the laminated floor indoors a few days before you install it so as to prevent unnecessary contractions or expansions upon installation. This should be done in order for your laminated floor to properly adapt to the room temperature together with the humidity of the house.
This also avoids the accumulation of moisture. Check for damages to each plank before installation. It is quite hard to undo them when already installed. Plan your installation of the laminated floor carefully.
Start with your beginning wall. It should be your most visible wall. It is the end wall that is used to facilitate adjustments and hide improper installation.
Install the laminated floor by either using glue or by snapping them together. Use a tapping board to tap the planks much tighter. Install the first three rows if you are using glue to attach the plank together.
Allow the glue to set in for about an hour. You can then install your floorboard. The transitioning of the strips will finish the installation process.
Ask a question
on June 3rd, 2009 at 1:58 pm
Can laminate be put over a cement floor if the room is not heated in the winter?
Can laminate be put directly over vinyl flooring?