Laminate flooring is a type of engineered wood flooring that has become very popular over the last decade or so. The main advantage of laminate flooring is its durability and ease of maintenance.
In addition, it comes in various styles and designs. But how do you lay it? Sure, it looks easy, but once the boards are out of the box, you are met with a challenge and you aren’t quite sure what to do.
You hit the internet, but no matter what you search for, the answers don’t seem to appear. You sit, surrounded by flooring, unsure how to lay it or what to do next.
Well, no more! We are here to save the day. This article will discuss how to lay your own laminate flooring. Just keep reading to find out more.
What Is Laminate Flooring?
Laminate floorings are manufactured from high-quality materials such as MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) and HDF (High-Density Fiberboard).
These materials are then pressed together under extreme pressure to create a strong and durable surface.
The most common types of flooring include:
Hardwood Floors
This is one of the most popular choices for homeowners because they look like real hardwood but are much more affordable than solid hardwoods.
Engineered Wood Floors
Another popular choice for homeowners who want a realistic-looking floor with all the benefits of a laminated floor.
Vinyl Flooring
This is an ideal option if you’re looking for a low-maintenance floor that will not require any special care. It can be installed on almost any kind of subfloor.
Luxury Vinyl Tiles
This is a great choice for those who want a luxurious appearance at a reasonable price.
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tiles offer many advantages including being easy to clean, resistant to moisture and staining, and long-lasting. They come in different sizes, shapes, and colors.
Stone
Stone provides a natural look that is both elegant and timeless. It also adds value to your home.
Carpet
Carpets add warmth and comfort to your home. They are available in different textures, patterns, and colors.
Other Options
There are other options available depending on your needs and preferences. For example, there are ceramic tile liners that provide a seamless transition between the floor and wall.
Installing Laminate Flooring
Before installing laminate flooring, make sure that you have properly prepared the area where the floor will be laid.
You should remove all furniture and appliances before laying down on the floor. Make sure that the room is free from dust, dirt, and debris. If possible, use a vacuum cleaner to get rid of these particles.
Preparation
After removing all obstacles, sand the floor using fine-grit sandpaper. Remove all scratches and marks using a damp cloth. Wipe away any remaining dust using a dry rag.
Apply The First Layer Of Adhesive
Once the floor is ready, apply a thin coat of the adhesive using a roller brush. Use enough adhesive to cover the entire floor. Allow the adhesive to dry completely.
Install The Second Layer Of Adhesive
When the adhesive has dried, install the second layer of adhesive using a roller. Again, use enough adhesive to cover the whole floor.
Press The Boards Into Place
Next, press the boards into place using a hand tamper. Start by pressing the board in the center of the room. Then, work towards the edges until the whole floor is covered.
Clean Up
Finally, when the installation is complete, clean up the excess adhesive using a wet rag or sponge.
Seal The Floor
Now that the floor is finished, it is time to seal the floor. First, spray the floor with water to moisten the adhesive. Let this sit for about 10 minutes.
Sand The Floor
Using fine-grit sandpaper, lightly sand the floor to remove any bumps caused by the previous step.
Buff The Floor
The final step is buffing the floor. A soft-bristled pad works best for this purpose. Buff the floor to give it a smooth finish.
Done!
Your new laminate floor looks beautiful. Enjoy your new floor!
Laminate Flooring: Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy to maintain – you don’t need to worry about sanding or touching them up!
- Durable – these boards are meant to last and you won’t have to worry about replacing them quickly
- Low maintenance – once they are down, they are down, making them ideal for those that want stress-free flooring.
Cons
- Expensive – their higher cost isn’t suitable for every budget.
- Not suitable for high traffic areas – you might notice that they wear quicker in places where you walk a lot, like hallways.
- Can scratch easily – you will want to avoid shoes or furniture that could drag and scratch the flooring.
Caring For Laminate Flooring
To keep your laminate floor looking great, follow these steps:
Vacuum Regularly
Vacuuming helps to prevent dust build-up and stains. Also, vacuuming keeps the floor surface clear of loose particles. This prevents damage to the floor’s surface.
Sweep Daily
Sweeping removes small pieces of dirt and debris that may cause stains.
Mop Weekly
Mops help to keep floors clean and sanitized. Mopping can also extend the life of the floor.
Keep Floor Out Of Direct Sunlight
Direct exposure to sunlight causes fading of colors and discoloration of the floor.
Avoid Spills
Spills can leave sticky residue behind. Spilled liquids such as juice, coffee, wine, and soda are especially damaging to laminate flooring.
Avoid Dragging Heavy Objects
Dragging heavy objects over the floor can cause permanent dents and scratches.
Don’t Use Steam Cleaners
Steam cleaners can cause excessive wear and tear on the floor.
Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals
Harsh chemicals can permanently stain the floor’s surface.
Never Wax The Floor
Waxing will only make the floor slippery. It can also cause scratching.
Never Scrub The Floor
Scrubbing the floor can cause scratches and dull the appearance of the floor.
Be Careful With Pets
Pets have sharp claws which can scratch the floor.
Check The Warranty
Most laminate floors come with a limited warranty. Read the terms and conditions before installing the product.
Use Protective Mats
Protective mats protect the floor from the furniture and other items. They can be placed under appliances and furniture.
Remove Shoes At Doorways
Shoes should always be removed before entering a home. This reduces the risk of tracking dirt inside the house.
Inspect The Floor Periodically
Inspect the floor periodically to check for signs of wear and tear.
Final Thoughts
If you want a durable, low-maintenance floor, then laminate flooring is the right choice for you. Be sure to follow our tips for installing and caring for it and you will be good to go!
