Laminate flooring in Akron, OH offers a beautiful, durable, and cost-effective alternative to traditional hardwood. One of its greatest advantages is that it's often designed for DIY installation, making it a popular choice for homeowners looking to save on labor costs and tackle a rewarding home improvement project.
If you're ready to take on the challenge, this comprehensive guide will walk you through how to install laminate flooring yourself, step by step.
Before you begin: gather your tools & materials
- Laminate flooring planks
- Underlayment (if not attached to the planks)
- Moisture barrier (if installing in a moisture-prone area)
- Tapping block
- Pull bar
- Spacers
- Hammer
- Saw (circular saw, jigsaw, or handsaw)
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Safety glasses
- Knee pads
Step-by-step laminate flooring installation directions
#1: Prepare the subfloor:
Start by ensuring your subfloor is clean, level, and dry. Remove any existing flooring, nails, or debris. If necessary, use a self-leveling compound to smooth out any imperfections. If installing over concrete, lay down a moisture barrier.
#2: Acclimate the flooring
Acclimate the Flooring: Let your laminate flooring acclimate to the room's temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours before installation. This helps prevent warping or gapping later.
#3: Install the underlayment
Roll out the underlayment, if it's not attached to the planks, ensuring a tight fit between the seams. Trim any excess with a utility knife.
#4: Plan your layout
Decide on the direction you want to lay the planks. Laying them parallel to the longest wall in the room can create a sense of spaciousness.
#5: Start with the first row
Begin in a corner, leaving a small expansion gap (about 1/4 inch) between the planks and the wall. Use spacers to maintain this gap. Lay the first plank with the tongue side facing the wall.
#6: Connect the planks
Connect the Planks: Angle the next plank and insert its tongue into the groove of the first plank. Gently press or tap down until it clicks into place. Continue this process across the first row.
#7: Trim the last plank
Measure the remaining space and cut the last plank to fit. Use the cut-off piece to start the next row, ensuring a staggered pattern.
#8: Continue laying rows
Follow the same process, working your way across the room. Use a tapping block and hammer to gently tap the planks together, ensuring a tight fit.
#9: Install the final row
You may need to cut the planks in the last row lengthwise to fit. Use a pull bar to help get them into place.
#10 Finishing touches
Once the flooring is installed, remove the spacers. Reinstall baseboards and trim to cover the expansion gaps.
Tips for a successful DIY laminate installation
- Read the Manufacturer's Instructions: Always follow the specific instructions that come with your laminate flooring.
- Work in Sections: Don't try to tackle the entire room at once. Work in smaller sections to make the process more manageable.
- Use a Miter Saw: A miter saw will give you the most precise cuts for a professional-looking finish.
- Stagger the Joints: Be sure to stagger the joints between rows to create a more visually appealing and stable floor.
Enjoy your new flooring!
Installing laminate flooring yourself can be a rewarding DIY project. With careful planning and the right tools, you can transform your home and enjoy the beauty and durability of laminate for years to come.
If you're unsure about any step of the process or prefer to leave the installation to the professionals, Barrington Carpet & Flooring Design in Akron, OH, is here to help. We service the areas of Akron, Copley, Hartville, North Canton, and Uniontown, and proudly serve all of Ohio and bordering states. With a history dating back to 1978 and a team of expert installers, we offer a LIFETIME WARRANTY on every carpet installation, giving you peace of mind and the assurance of a job well done.
