Overview

PROJECT OVERVIEW
WORKING TIME	3.5 hrs
TOTAL TIME	4.5 hrs
YIELD	7 square feet
SKILL LEVEL	Intermediate
ESTIMATED COST	$180 to $380

These are all estimates and can change depending on the skill and speed of the person completing the job.

Can I Install Laminate Flooring Myself?

Absolutely! Installing laminate flooring is a doable DIY project that doesn't require extensive experience. With the right tools, materials, and a bit of patience, you can achieve professional-looking results. By following the step-by-step instructions provided in this guide, you'll be well-equipped to tackle the installation process and enjoy the satisfaction of transforming your space with your own hands.

Easy Steps To install a laminate floor, follow these steps:

1. Gather Materials and Tools: Before you start, ensure you have all the necessary materials, including laminate flooring planks, underlayment, spacers, a tapping block, a mallet, a saw (circular or handsaw), measuring tape, pencil, and safety equipment.

Item	Description	Average Cost
Laminate flooring planks	The type of flooring you will be installing.	$2 - $5 per square foot
Underlayment	A layer of material that is placed between the subfloor and the laminate flooring to provide soundproofing and insulation.	$0.50 - $1 per square foot
Spacers	Small pieces of wood or plastic that are used to create a gap between the laminate planks. This helps to prevent the planks from expanding and contracting due to changes in humidity.	$0.50 - $1 per square foot
Tapping block	A block of wood that is used to tap down the laminate planks without damaging them.	$5 - $10
Mallet	A tool for driving nails and tacks.	$5 - $10
Saw (circular or handsaw)	A tool for cutting the laminate planks to size.	$50 - $100
Measuring tape	A measuring tool for measuring the length and width of the room.	$5 - $10
Pencil	A writing implement for marking the subfloor.	$1 - $2
Safety equipment (gloves, eye protection)	Personal protective equipment to wear while working with power tools and sharp objects.	$10 - $20

2. Prepare the Subfloor: Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Remove any existing flooring and baseboards. Install a vapor barrier or underlayment to provide cushioning and moisture protection.

3. Acclimate the Flooring: Allow the laminate planks to acclimate to the room's temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours before installation. Keep the boxes flat and open.

4. Plan the Layout: Decide on the direction of the planks, considering the room's layout and natural light. Measure the room's dimensions and mark the centerlines.

5. Install Underlayment: Lay the underlayment over the subfloor, ensuring it covers the entire area. Tape the seams and edges to secure it in place.

6. Start Installing: Begin at a corner of the room and lay the first row of planks along the starting wall. Place spacers between the planks and the wall to allow for expansion. Make sure the grooved sides face the wall.

7. Interlock Planks: Install subsequent rows by interlocking the tongue of one plank into the groove of the previous row at an angle. Use a tapping block and mallet to gently tap the planks together, ensuring a snug fit.

8. Cutting Planks: Measure and mark planks for areas around doorways, vents, and corners. Use a saw to make precise cuts. Remember to leave a small gap (about 1/4 inch) around walls and obstacles to accommodate expansion.

9. Continue Installation: Continue installing rows of planks, ensuring the end joints are staggered by at least 12 inches for a natural appearance. Maintain the expansion gap around the perimeter of the room.

10. Fit Around Door Frames: When you encounter door frames, carefully cut the planks to fit around them. This may require making relief cuts for a proper fit.

11. Complete the Installation: As you approach the final row, measure and cut planks to fit the remaining space. Make sure to maintain the expansion gap along both walls. Use a pull bar to help close gaps between the last row and the previous one.

12. Install Baseboards and Trim: Once all planks are in place, remove the spacers and install baseboards or trim to cover the expansion gap. Attach the trim to the wall, not the flooring.

13. Clean and Inspect: Clean the laminate floor to remove any dust or debris. Inspect the entire installation for gaps, uneven areas, or imperfections.

14. Enjoy Your New Floor: Your laminate floor is now installed and ready to be enjoyed. Remember to follow proper cleaning and maintenance guidelines to keep it looking its best for years to come.

Do You Need Underlayment for Laminate Flooring?

Yes, using underlayment is a crucial step in the laminate flooring installation process. Underlayment serves multiple purposes, including providing a cushioning layer for comfort underfoot, reducing noise transmission, and acting as a moisture barrier. It also helps to smooth out minor imperfections in the subfloor, ensuring a more even surface for the laminate planks. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the type of underlayment to use based on your subfloor and the specific laminate flooring product.

Do You Glue or Nail Laminate Flooring?

Laminate flooring is not typically glued or nailed down like traditional hardwood flooring. Instead, it features a click-lock or tongue-and-groove mechanism that allows the planks to be easily interlocked during installation. This "floating" installation method means the planks are not attached directly to the subfloor. Instead, they expand and contract naturally with temperature and humidity changes. This approach makes laminate flooring a versatile and easy-to-install option for various spaces.

Is It Better to Glue Down Laminate Flooring?

While gluing down laminate flooring is possible, it's not the most common installation method and may not be recommended by all manufacturers. Gluing down laminate flooring can limit its ability to expand and contract naturally, which could lead to issues over time. It's essential to follow the manufacturer's installation guidelines and recommendations to ensure the longevity and performance of your laminate floor. In most cases, the click-lock or tongue-and-groove installation method is preferred for its ease and reliability.

How to Install a Laminate Floor on Concrete?

Installing laminate flooring on concrete follows a similar process to other subfloors, with some additional considerations. Concrete subfloors must be clean, dry, and level before installation. To create a moisture barrier, lay down an appropriate underlayment with an attached vapor barrier or install a separate moisture barrier film. Follow the steps outlined in this guide for installing the laminate planks, and remember to leave the necessary expansion gap around the perimeter of the room.