Laminate Flooring Installation: A Step-by-Step Guide

Laminate flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners. It combines affordability, durability, and style, offering the elegant look of hardwood at a fraction of the price. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your living room or refresh a high-traffic area, laminate’s scratch and stain-resistant qualities make it a perfect flooring selection. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to install.

If you want a simple guide to laminate flooring installation, you’ve come to the correct page. This guide will teach you how to install laminate flooring, so installing laminate flooring is easy and fun. Fitting laminate flooring is just one of the ways that you can quickly and inexpensively make a new room, and with forward-thinking, you can create professional-looking results. Whether you are a beginner or an accomplished individual, correct learning of how to install laminate flooring ensures a fashionable and durable finish.

Important: Before installation, ensure that the subfloor is clean, dry, and level, and that the room is acclimatized to the laminate flooring’s recommended temperature and humidity levels. This step prevents shifting or warping of the planks after installation.

Before You Begin to Laminate Installation

While laminate can be installed in most areas of your home, spaces with high moisture levels, such as kitchens and bathrooms, require extra caution. That’s because laminate is water-resistant, but it isn’t waterproof. In such areas, large spillages and prolonged exposure to moisture cause lasting damage to your flooring. Laminate is ideal for high-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms due to its durability. Its HDF (high-density fiberboard) core and scratch-resistant wear layer provide extra strength. Now, before you begin, you should carry out some preparation.

Check the packs!

It’s important to inspect each plank for defects. If you find any, address them before starting the installation. For commercial use, it’s better to consider laminate rated either AC4 or AC5, which makes it perfect for rooms such as office spaces (AC4) or large department stores and public buildings (AC5).

Subfloor preparation is crucial. Ensure that the subfloor is clean, dry, and level. If there are any imperfections or uneven surfaces, they should be addressed using self-leveling compounds or leveling boards. This is vital for achieving a smooth and stable surface for the laminate to perform at its best.

Why Laminate Flooring is a Great Choice for DIY Installations

Laminate flooring is an excellent option for DIY enthusiasts who would like a cost-effective and attractive floor solution. Laminate floor installation is simple and does not require professional assistance, making it an exceptional option for individuals who prefer to do it themselves. With the proper tools and understanding of the process, even beginners can achieve a professional-looking result.

 Installation is simple, and anyone can install laminate floors on their own with proper preparation and tools. When installing, pay attention to expansion gaps, proper alignment, and staggering of seams to ensure a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish.

For the UK, how to fit laminate flooring is a common query, and the fit is simple enough for a novice. With click-lock systems of fit, laminate flooring offers a simple way of having a smart, durable floor without nails or adhesive. Whether you’re renovating a small space or a larger space, laminate flooring is a quick, affordable choice for an attractive, durable floor.

Site Conditions for Laying Laminate Flooring

The good installation of laminate flooring depends on the site conditions. These essential checks should always be made:

• Humidity levels should be between 45% and 65%. High humidity can cause the laminate to swell, while too low humidity can lead to gaps and buckling.
  
• Concrete or timber subfloors should have a moisture content of no more than 12% MC on a surface prong test, or below 3% on a concrete moisture meter. Different meters have different scales, so it’s important to check their documentation.
  For timber subfloors, ensure they are free from any excessive moisture. Use a moisture meter specifically designed for wood to ensure it is within acceptable limits.
  
• Subfloor levels should be no more than 3 mm over a 1m distance in any direction. Use a long spirit level and ruler to check. For accurate leveling, it’s recommended to use a laser level for large areas to ensure precision.
  
• Uneven floors should be leveled using leveling boards, plywood, or self-leveling compounds. If the unevenness is severe, sanding or grinding the subfloor may be required to bring it to a smooth, even surface.
  When using self-leveling compounds, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and allow the compound to dry completely before proceeding with installation.
  
• If there is old adhesive on the subfloor, it should be removed by scraping or sanding before installation. Ensure that all residue is completely removed to avoid interfering with the laminate’s ability to lock properly.
  
• Remove any old carpet or cushioned vinyl flooring, as laminate should be installed on a firm, stable surface. If installing over existing tiles, ensure the grout lines are not too deep, as this can affect the laminate’s stability.

When fitting laminate flooring, ensuring these site conditions are met is crucial for a successful laminate flooring installation. Proper preparation of the subfloor and moisture control will ensure that your laminate flooring performs well and lasts for years.

Acclimating A Laminate Floor

Like solid wood flooring, your laminate flooring should remain in its packaging and lie flat in the room where it will be installed. This is crucial to prevent any warping or damage during the acclimation process. Most manufacturers recommend a 48-hour acclimatization period.

Do not stack the boxes on top of each other, and ensure the room’s temperature remains consistent with the heating on. Avoid placing the laminate in direct sunlight or near heat sources like radiators, as extreme fluctuations in temperature can cause improper acclimation.

It’s okay if you notice any bowing in the planks after acclimatization. It’s simply the laminate’s HDF core adjusting to the heat and humidity of the room. Once the planks acclimate fully, this should resolve.

Acclimation Time and Temperature Conditions

Before installing laminate floors, it’s extremely crucial to acclimate the laminate to the room’s temperature and humidity. This allows the planks to expand or contract appropriately to match the room’s environment. This process helps prevent issues like warping or gaps after installation. Ideally, laminate flooring should remain in the room for at least 48 hours to acclimate to the environmental conditions.

For optimal results, maintain a temperature range of 18-22 °C (64-72 °F) in the room, with a humidity level between 30-50%. Using a hygrometer or thermometer can help you monitor the room’s humidity and temperature levels to ensure they stay within the recommended range.

In addition to acclimation, make sure to leave a small expansion gap along the edges for laminate flooring, which allows the planks to expand naturally without causing buckling. This gap should be at least 8-10 mm. By following these simple steps, you’ll ensure a smooth and durable installation.

Choosing the Right Underlay for Laminate Flooring (if needed)

Selecting the appropriate underlay is crucial for the longevity and performance of your floor. A high-quality underlay can improve the comfort, insulation, and overall soundproofing of your laminate flooring. Foam underlay is a common option, ensuring that the edges butt together without overlapping. Secure the seams with underlay tape to prevent movement during installation.

For flats or upper floors, consider using sound-reducing underlay for better noise insulation. This is especially important in apartments or multi-story homes to minimize the sound of footsteps.

If you’re installing over concrete, use a DPM (damp-proof membrane) to prevent moisture damage. Concrete floors tend to retain moisture, which can affect laminate flooring if not properly protected. Ensure the DPM is installed correctly with no gaps or overlaps.

For wooden subfloors, choose underlays specifically designed for wood, offering added benefits such as insulation and surface leveling. Some underlays for wooden subfloors also provide soundproofing and moisture resistance, which is particularly important in areas with fluctuating humidity.

Underlay thickness is also an important consideration. Thicker underlays generally provide better soundproofing and insulation, but they can reduce the locking strength of the laminate, so it’s essential to choose the right thickness for your needs.

Proper underlay selection ensures both protection from moisture and improved overall flooring performance, contributing to the longevity and durability of your laminate flooring.

How to Choose the Right Laminate Flooring for Your Space

Selecting the correct laminate flooring for your room is crucial to both aesthetics and durability. Start by considering your room’s function and traffic patterns. For high-traffic areas such as hallways, living rooms, or offices, opt for laminate with a higher AC rating (AC3, AC4, or AC5) for long-term durability. AC ratings measure the laminate’s wear resistance, so choosing a higher rating will ensure longevity in areas with heavy foot traffic.

Installation of the laminate floor must also take into account the type of underlay needed, which may have implications for sound insulation and comfort. If you’re installing laminate in an upstairs room or apartment, you may want to consider an underlay designed specifically to reduce noise transmission between floors.

When asking how to install laminate flooring in specific rooms, keep in mind factors like moisture levels, particularly in kitchens or bathrooms, and opt for water-resistant laminate. In moisture-prone areas, make sure the laminate has a waterproof core, or use a laminate designed specifically for wet conditions. Additionally, ensure the underlay provides moisture protection if you’re installing over concrete floors or in humid environments.

Secondly, the look of the laminate should complement your room’s décor. Consider your room’s existing colors and furniture when choosing the laminate’s texture, pattern, and color. If planning for a classic wood look or a modern finish, picking the correct texture and color guarantees that your flooring will enhance the overall aesthetic. For a timeless design, lighter oak or walnut tones work well, while darker finishes like espresso or grey offer a modern touch.

Finally, don’t forget to consider the room’s lighting. Darker floors can make a room feel smaller and cozier, while lighter floors can open up a space and create a sense of airiness. Test the laminate color in the room’s natural light before making your final decision.

Measuring a Room

Before you start your laminate flooring project, it’s essential to know the exact area of the room in square metres. To calculate how many packs you’ll need, divide the room’s area by the pack size. Then round up to the nearest whole number to determine the total number of packs required.

For example, if your room measures 24.75m² and the pack size is 2.39m², divide 24.75 by 2.39, which equals 10.3. Round it up to 11 packs, which is the final number of laminate flooring packs you’ll need. To account for waste, we recommend adding 10% to the total area.

This preparation is vital when fitting laminate flooring to ensure you have enough materials for a smooth laminate flooring installation. Proper calculations will help avoid delays and extra costs during your project.

Read more: How to measure a room for flooring?

Tools for laying laminate wood floors

Tool	Purpose
Circular saw / jigsaw / or handsaw	For cutting laminate planks to size.
Utility knife	For cutting underlay or making small cuts in laminate.
Hammer	For tapping the tapping block or pull bar to connect planks.
Tapping block or pull bar	For joining laminate planks securely without damaging them.
Rubber mallet	For tapping planks into place without damaging the laminate.
Tape measure	For measuring the room and planks to ensure accurate cutting.
Straightedge ruler	For guiding cuts and ensuring straight lines.
Set square	For ensuring accurate right angles during cuts.
Pencil	For marking cut lines on laminate and underlay.
Undercut jamb saw	For trimming door jambs or moldings to allow laminate to slide underneath.
Scrap wood spacers	For maintaining consistent expansion gaps during installation.
Underlayment and tape (if required)	For providing moisture protection and cushioning under the laminate.
Knee pads	For comfort and protection while working on your knees.
Moisture meter	For checking the moisture level of the subfloor before installation.
Spacers	For leaving necessary expansion gaps between the laminate and walls.
Clamps	For holding planks while cutting.
Drill	For making holes, especially when installing around pipes.
Underlay tape	To secure seams of the underlayment.
Moisture meter	For checking the moisture level of the subfloor.
Wooden scrap pieces	To use as spacers for consistent expansion gaps.

How to lay laminate flooring step by step 

Before you begin, ensure your subfloor is clean, dry, and level. The most co

on method of laminate installation is the floating method, which uses an underlay. This method allows laminate to be fitted over almost any type of subfloor without the need for adhesive, simply click the planks together.

However, if you prefer a more secure installation, you can opt for flooring adhesive; to bond the planks to the subfloor, ensuring extra stability.

Step 1: Plan the Layout

Begin the layout along the longest wall of the room. It’s important to plan a staggered pattern for the planks to ensure that the joints in adjacent rows do not align. Always leave an 8-12 mm expansion gap around the walls and fixed objects using spacers to allow for the natural expansion and contraction of the laminate. This expansion gap should be maintained all around the perimeter of the floor, including walls, door frames, and other fixed objects. As you lay the planks, make sure the cut planks are at least 30 cm long for added stability in the overall flooring structure.

Step 2: Install the First Row

Trim the tongue edge of the planks to create a clean edge against the wall. Lay the planks with the cut edge facing the wall, ensuring that the 8-12 mm expansion gap is maintained. You can use the offcut from this plank to start the second row, ensuring that the rows are properly staggered. This method prevents the joints from aligning between rows, maintaining a strong and stable floor.

Continue the installation of Rows

Continue to hold each plank at a 45-degree angle and insert the tongue of the plank into the groove of the previous row. Lower the plank into place, allowing it to click securely. If necessary, use a pull bar and tapping block to ensure the joints are tightly secured. Remember to maintain a staggered pattern throughout the installation process, making sure that the joints are offset by at least 30 cm from row to row. This staggering of the joints adds structural integrity to the floor. Additionally, leave a 10 mm gap around obstacles such as walls, radiator pipes, door frames, and skirting boards to allow for natural expansion.

Fitting Around Obstacles

Installing laminate flooring around common obstacles such as corners, door frames, radiator pipes, and stairs requires extra attention. In these areas, precise measurements and careful cutting of planks are essential for a professional finish.

Fitting Around Corners

Place the laminate plank against the corner. Where the plank meets the wall, add the expansion gap and mark it with a pencil. This gives you the width of the cut needed.

To measure the length, place the plank along the adjoining wall and mark the required length. Use a set square to mark a clear-cutting line. Secure the plank to a workbench using clamps and cut along the marked lines with a jigsaw. Fit the board into place and ensure a tight fit.

Fitting Around Door Frames

To fit laminate wood flooring around the door frame, it’s better to undercut the door frame so the laminate slides underneath for a seamless look.
Take a piece of laminate and your underlay, then put these up against your door. Make a pencil line across the width of your door at the line where your flooring and underlay reach.

Then, take a hand saw to cut into your door frame at the pencil line. Using a chisel and hammer, tap the wood below the wood line to create a gap where your flooring will fit under.

Remove the excess wood, ensuring there’s enough space for the laminate and underlay to fit underneath. Test the fit by sliding a piece of laminate under the frame. If necessary, trim more for a perfect fit. Make sure the underlay is also fitted properly around the door frame, as this ensures continuous moisture protection and a seamless floor installation.

Fitting Around Radiator Pipes

Lay a laminate plank next to the radiator pipe with its short side against the wall.

Use a pencil and ruler to draw a horizontal line along the plank, aligned with the center of the pipe.

Now, move the plank so that the short side is against the pipe. Draw a vertical line along the plank, again aligned with the pipe’s center. These two intersecting lines mark the center point of the pipe. Secure the plank to a workbench with clamps. Use a drill and spade bit or hole saw to create a hole at the marked center point. The hole should be slightly larger than the pipe to allow for expansion.

Draw two straight pencil lines from the hole to the nearest short edge of the plank.

Use a jigsaw to cut along these lines and remove the small wood section.

Fit the laminate around the pipe and reattach the removed section using wood glue, flexible caulk, or a matching putty to create a seamless finish.

Fitting Around Stairs

For a fit laminate around the bottom of staircases, you can use the same technique as fitting around door frames.

Trim the bottom of the staircase to allow the laminate to slide underneath. Measure and cut the plank, leaving a small expansion gap, then slide it into place and use a tapping block for a snug, professional finish.

Install the Last Row

Once you reach the final row, measure the planks to fit the remaining space and cut them lengthwise using a jigsaw or saw. Use a pull bar to gently lock the planks into place, ensuring a snug and secure fit. It may be helpful to tap gently with a hammer to ensure the planks align correctly with the previous row.

Final touch

After the planks are all laid and secured, remove the spacers and cover the gaps with skirting boards or beading, making sure the skirting is not fixed directly to the floor. This ensures that the floor can expand naturally without being restricted by the trim. Finally, clean the floor using a dry mop or vacuum to remove any dust or debris from the installation process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid and Tips for a Professional-Looking Finish

When installing laminate flooring, there are several common mistakes that can affect the overall quality and durability of your floor. Here’s what to avoid:

• Ignoring Expansion Gaps: Failing to leave proper expansion gaps around the perimeter of the floor can lead to buckling or gaps as the laminate expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity. Always leave a 10-15 mm gap between the floor and walls.
  
• Not Acclimating the Laminate: Laminate floor fitting works best when the planks are allowed to acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours before installation. Skipping this step can cause warping or expansion issues later. Ensure that the humidity in the room is between 45% and 65% to avoid any issues with moisture absorption.
  
• Installing Over an Uneven Subfloor: Ensure that your subfloor is clean, dry, and level before starting laminate floor installation. Any unevenness can result in an unstable surface, which can damage the laminate over time. Check for any remaining dust, debris, or moisture on the subfloor that could affect the laminate’s performance.
  

• Cutting Laminate Incorrectly: Use the right tools to cut your laminate flooring. A fine-tooth saw or a laminate cutter will give cleaner, smoother edges than a power tool with a coarse blade. If using a power saw, ensure that you use a fine-tooth blade designed for laminate to prevent rough edges and to protect the locking system of the planks.

Tips for a Professional-Looking Finish

• Use a Tapping Block: To ensure each plank fits snugly into place without damaging the edges. Make sure to place the tapping block perpendicular to the plank edge to distribute the force evenly and prevent damaging the laminate or locking mechanism.
  
• Align the Planks Correctly: Start the installation in a straight line and continue row by row to ensure perfect alignment. If the walls are uneven, it’s best to start from the straighter wall to ensure uniformity throughout the installation.
  
• Finish with the Right Trim: Use quality transition strips and moldings to cover the expansion gaps and give a polished, finished look. Ensure that transition strips are installed properly to allow for natural expansion and contraction of the laminate floor. These strips should not restrict the movement of the floor.

Laminate Flooring Installation: Dos and Don’ts

Dos

Action	Description
Do ensure a clean, dry, and level subfloor.	Proper preparation is crucial for successful laminate floor installation. A clean subfloor prevents uneven flooring.
Do leave an expansion gap.	Always leave at least a 10-15 mm gap between the flooring and walls to allow for natural expansion and contraction of laminate.
Do acclimate your laminate flooring.	Let the laminate sit in the room for 48 hours before installation to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity.
Do use the right underlay.	The underlay is essential for sound insulation and can help prevent moisture damage. Choose an underlay suited for your specific flooring and climate.

Don’ts

Action	Description
Don’t install laminate over an uneven subfloor.	A level surface is essential to avoid cracks, creaks, and damage to your laminate flooring.
Don’t use excessive force when fitting planks.	Forcing planks can lead to cracks or damage the locking system. Use a tapping block to fit them gently.
Don’t skip the cleaning process.	Always clean the subfloor before installation to remove dust and debris that could interfere with the laminate’s adhesion and durability.
Don’t forget to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.	Each laminate product may have specific requirements for installation and care, which should be followed for the best results.

By following these dos and don’ts, your laminate flooring will not only look great but also last longer. If you’re unsure about the installation process, Flooring Surgeons offers professional guidance and installation services to ensure a flawless finish every time.

Need expert help with your flooring project?

If you’re looking for expert help with your flooring project, look no further. We provide top-notch floor installation services and a wide range of premium flooring solutions to suit every style and budget.

Let us take the stress out of your flooring installation. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us help you transform your space with the perfect floor!

Cleaning and Maintenance After Installation

To keep your laminate flooring in top condition:

• Regular Sweeping or Vacuuming: Remove dust and debris to avoid scratches. Use a vacuum without a beater bar. A vacuum designed for hard floors is best, as the beater bar can damage the laminate surface.
  
• Damp Mopping: Clean with a damp mop and a mild solution—avoid excess water. Use a laminate floor cleaner or a mild detergent to prevent damaging the surface.
  
• Clean Spills Immediately: Wipe up spills quickly with a dry or slightly damp cloth. For sticky or colored spills, clean them right away to prevent staining or damage to the laminate.
  
• Use Mats and Rugs: Place mats at entry points to reduce dirt and moisture. Ensure that the mats have a non-slip backing to avoid movement and to prevent moisture from reaching the laminate.
  
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Don’t use wax-based or abrasive cleaners. Never use strong chemicals that can damage the finish or make the floor slippery.

With these simple steps, your laminate flooring will stay beautiful and durable for years.

Conclusion

Laminate floor installation is a budget-friendly way to provide any room with a professional, fashionable finish. Whether you’re wondering how to lay laminate flooring UK or prefer expert help, the proper steps and materials are key to achieving a long-lasting result. It’s important to acclimatize the laminate and leave proper expansion gaps for the best outcome. Whether you are a DIY beginner or hiring a professional, taking these precautions ensures your laminate floor will continue to dazzle for years to come. If you need any assistance, Flooring Surgeons is here to help you with professional installation and quality flooring materials.

Mina Asgari

I’m an SEO Specialist and Content Strategist focused on sustainable business growth. I design data-driven content strategies by deeply analyzing user intent, search behavior, and SEO best practices, ensuring every piece of content serves a clear purpose for both users and search engines.