DIY Laminate Flooring Installation: A Step-by-Step Guide

Installing DIY laminate flooring is a rewarding home improvement project that can transform the look of your space. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a beginner, this flooring installation guide will walk you through the process, ensuring a professional finish. With the right tools and preparation, you can achieve stunning results that will enhance your home. 

Here’s how to do it

Planning and Preparation

Before you begin the installation process, it’s crucial to plan and prepare adequately. This stage involves measuring your space, gathering the necessary tools, and ensuring the subfloor is ready for installation.

Measure Your Space: Start by measuring the area where you will install the laminate flooring. Calculate the square footage to determine how much flooring you need. It’s a good idea to purchase an extra 10% to account for wastage and cuts.

Gather Tools and Materials: For a successful DIY laminate flooring installation, you will need the following tools and materials:

• Laminate flooring planks
• Underlayment
• Tape measure
• Utility knife
• Spacers
• Hammer or mallet
• Saw (circular, jigsaw, or handsaw)
• Tapping block
• Pull bar
• Pencil
• Safety glasses and gloves

Prepare the Subfloor: Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Remove any old flooring, nails, and debris. Use a floor-levelling compound to create a smooth surface if the subfloor is uneven. Laminate flooring can be installed over concrete, plywood, or existing vinyl flooring.

Acclimate the Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring needs to acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity before installation. Place the unopened boxes of laminate planks in the room where they will be installed for at least 48 hours. This step prevents the planks from expanding or contracting after installation.

Install the Underlayment

The underlayment provides a moisture barrier and cushioning for the laminate flooring. Follow these steps to install the underlayment:

• Roll out the underlayment and cut it to fit the length of the room.
• Lay the underlayment in rows, ensuring the edges butt up against each other without overlapping.
• Tape the seams together using underlayment tape.
• Trim the excess underlayment along the edges of the room.

Plan the Layout

Before laying the first row of laminate flooring, plan the layout to ensure a professional finish. Determine the direction of the planks based on the shape of the room and the location of the windows. 

Typically, laminate planks are installed parallel to the longest wall or toward the main source of light.

Install the First Row

Starting from one corner of the room, follow these steps to install the first row of laminate flooring:

• Place spacers along the walls to create an expansion gap of about 8-10mm. This gap allows the flooring to expand and contract with temperature changes.
• Lay the first plank with the tongue side facing the wall.
• Connect the next plank by inserting its tongue into the groove of the first plank at an angle and then laying it flat. Continue this process until you reach the end of the row.
• Cut the last plank to fit, ensuring you maintain the expansion gap.

Continue Laying the Flooring

Once the first row is complete, continue laying the rest of the flooring:

• Start the second row with the leftover piece from the first row if it is at least 30cm long. This creates a staggered pattern that adds stability to the floor.
• Insert the tongue of the first plank of the second row into the groove of the first row at an angle and lay it flat.
• Use a tapping block and mallet to gently tap the planks into place, ensuring tight seams.
• Continue this process row by row, maintaining the staggered pattern and the expansion gaps.

Cut and Fit Around Obstacles

As you progress, you may encounter obstacles such as door frames, vents, or pipes. Here’s how to cut and fit laminate flooring around these obstacles:

• Measure and mark the plank where it needs to be cut to fit around the obstacle.
• Use a jigsaw or handsaw to make the necessary cuts.
• For door frames, you can undercut the frame using a handsaw to slide the laminate plank underneath.

Install the Last Row

Installing the last row can be challenging due to the limited space. Here’s how to do it:

• Measure the width of the remaining gap and subtract the expansion gap.
• Cut the planks to the appropriate width using a saw.
• Insert the planks into the groove of the previous row at an angle and lay them flat.
• Use a pull bar to pull the planks into place, ensuring a tight fit.

Remove Spacers and Install Moulding

After all the laminate flooring is installed, remove the spacers from around the edges of the room. Install moulding or baseboards to cover the expansion gaps and give the room a finished look. Use a nail gun or finishing nails to secure the moulding to the wall, not the flooring.

Clean and Enjoy

Finally, clean the newly installed laminate flooring to remove any dust or debris. Use a damp mop or a laminate floor cleaner to keep your floor looking pristine. Now, step back and admire your handiwork!

SUMMARY

Installing DIY laminate flooring is a manageable home improvement project that can dramatically enhance the look of your space. With this flooring installation guide, you can achieve professional results that you’ll be proud of. Whether you’re in Sydney or Stanmore NSW, finding DIY flooring near me and gathering the necessary tools and materials will set you on the path to success. Follow these steps carefully, and enjoy the beauty and functionality of your new laminate flooring.