Installing Your Own Laminate Floor

Many homeowners choose laminate flooring as a durable material that resists scratches, is low maintenance, and is much less expensive than hardwood.  Its easy installation makes it a practical choice if you plan on saving $3 to $8 per square foot in labor costs.

Planks of laminate flooring snap together in a tongue and groove fashion, and float over the sub floor.  It does not need to be glued or nailed down.  High and direct pressure versions are available, but high pressure is more resistant to wear.

Prior to purchasing your laminate, perform a moisture test on your sub floor.  Tape a 2’x2’ piece of plastic to the floor, creating an airtight seal.  After 24 to 48 hours, you should not notice any condensation on the plastic.  If you do, your sub floor may have too much moisture, and needs to dry out.

Measure the room for square footage, then add 20% to that total for your laminate needs.  Next, measure the perimeter of the room to determine how much quarter round you will need. 

First, you will install a moisture barrier, which is simply a thin plastic sheet.  Next, you will install the underlayment, or thin foam-like padding.  These layers help to prevent moisture build-up and reduce hollow sound when walking on the laminate.

Some experts suggest laying your laminate planks in the direction the light falls in order to make joints less visible.  Others claim you should lay the planks in the same direction as the longest wall, but this will vary from room to room.

Begin laying the first row of planks along any wall, leaving a ¼ gap for expansion.  You will also want to stagger the seams in order to add strength and prevent buckling.  Depending on what type of saw you use, you may want to cut the planks from different sides to prevent chipping.

After snapping the planks together, use a rubber mallet to tighten the joints.  Finally, finish the room with the quarter round and clean with a designated laminate cleaner.