Little Known Secrets for Installing Laminate Flooring

Installing laminate flooring is a straightforward process. Laminates are called "floating floors" because they are not fastened directly onto the sub floor. Instead, squares or planks are attached to each piece of laminate. These laminate squares or planks use connectors or locking systems that are designed to click boards together.

Laminate floors look like stone or wood, but with less maintenance and more durability. Installing laminate flooring is relatively easy, allowing users to save both time and money. There are three kinds of laminate flooring - glue laminates, glue-less laminates and pre-glued laminates, each of which is installed in a slightly different way.

How to Install Laminate Flooring

Be aware that the method you use in installing laminate flooring will greatly influence the life and performance of your floors.

Installing laminate floors using the glue technique is easy even for beginners. The glue is manually applied to the tongue or the groove of each square or plank during installation. On the other hand, installing laminate flooring using a glue-less techniques uses a type of locking system that snaps, clicks or hooks pieces together. Each piece of flooring has a tongue and groove for the flooring to lock tightly together.

An advantage of the glue-less technique is that the locking systems provide you with a simple and straightforward process of installing laminate floors. Not only do you enjoy installing without the messy glue, you can also use the floors immediately after installation. Pre-glued laminates combine the two installing techniques of laminate flooring. The flooring has a pad glued to it.

Checklist before Installing Laminate Flooring

Before installing laminate flooring, it is important that you follow several steps to ensure your installation will be successfully. First, ensure that you remove all "breakables" from the area where you will install the floors. For instance, remove pictures from your walls so you don't hit them with a piece of flooring.

Next, if necessary, remove all appliances, furniture and the sub-floor. It is also important that you disconnect gas appliances to avoid possible fire accidents. When you want to change the height of your floors, make the necessary adjustments to your doors for them to open and close properly.

Check your items in closets and other storage areas and remove everything that will interfere with installing your laminate flooring. Lastly, double-check if the temperature inside your home is appropriate for laminate installation. Most flooring must sit in your home for at least 48 hours before installation so it can adapt to your home's climate.

Although there are many professionals willing to install your laminate flooring, you could save hundreds of dollars by doing the installation yourself. Many home improvement stores have free classes, where you can learn everything you need to know. Installing new laminate floors can also be a great investment because they can last for years and increase the value of your home. Their great looks and easy maintenance will provide years of enjoyment.