When it comes to updating your home’s flooring, laminate can be an excellent choice. It’s durable, stylish, and more affordable than many other options. However, even a relatively straightforward installation process has potential pitfalls. At H&W Carpets Inc., a family-owned business proudly serving Beaverton, OR, since 1975, we’ve helped countless customers select and install laminate flooring successfully. Here, we’ll share some of the most common mistakes people make when installing laminate flooring – and how to avoid them to achieve a flawless finish.
1. Skipping Acclimation
One of the most overlooked steps in laminate installation is acclimating the flooring to the room’s climate. Laminate expands and contracts based on humidity and temperature, so allowing the planks to adjust is crucial. Let your laminate sit in the room for at least 48 hours before installation. This simple step helps prevent gaps, buckling, or separation issues after installation.
Tip from H&W Carpets Inc.: Place your laminate boxes flat in the room, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, for best acclimation results.
2. Failing to Level the Subfloor
Laminate flooring needs a flat surface for a proper fit. If the subfloor has bumps or depressions, your laminate planks may shift or warp over time, compromising the stability and appearance of your floor. Many homeowners skip this step, only to face uneven floor issues down the road.
Solution: Use a leveling compound to fill in low spots, and sand down high spots. At H&W Carpets Inc., we carry everything you need to level your subfloor properly, and we’re always happy to guide you through the process.
3. Not Using an Underlayment
Underlayment is vital for a smooth installation, providing a buffer between the laminate and the subfloor. This layer helps reduce noise, adds cushion, and prevents moisture damage. While some laminate products come with pre-attached underlayment, many don’t.
Advice: If your laminate doesn’t have a built-in underlayment, make sure to purchase one that’s compatible with your flooring type. Our team at H&W Carpets Inc. can help you select the right underlayment for your needs, ensuring your flooring’s longevity.
4. Ignoring Expansion Gaps
Laminate floors expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity, so leaving expansion gaps around the edges of the room is essential. Without these gaps, your flooring may start to buckle or lift.
Key Rule: Leave a gap of about ¼ inch around the edges of the room, including around obstacles like pipes and door frames. Use spacers to keep the planks steady as you install, then cover the gaps with trim or molding.
5. Not Planning for Door Clearance
When you’re installing laminate in a room with doors, make sure to consider the clearance under the door. Adding an underlayment and new flooring could create an obstruction, preventing doors from opening and closing smoothly.
Solution: Measure the door clearance before starting, and if necessary, trim the bottom of the doors to accommodate the new flooring height.
6. Forgetting About Room Layout and Direction
The direction in which you lay your laminate planks can make a big difference in the room’s look and feel. Many people overlook this step, but taking a moment to plan the layout can transform the space.
Pro Tip: Laying laminate planks parallel to the longest wall or toward a focal point (like a window) can enhance the room’s appearance, making it look larger and more cohesive.
7. Cutting Costs on Tools
The right tools can make the difference between a smooth, professional-looking finish and a sloppy job. Some DIYers try to cut corners by using household tools instead of flooring-specific equipment, which can lead to mistakes.
Our Recommendation: Invest in quality tools, or consider renting them. H&W Carpets Inc. provides guidance on the essential tools for laminate installation and can help you choose the best options for your project.
8. Not Protecting the Finished Floor
Once the laminate flooring is installed, many people jump straight into using the space without taking steps to protect it. Moving furniture or walking on it with heavy shoes can cause scuffs or scratches, especially right after installation.
Best Practice: Use furniture pads to prevent scratches and avoid dragging items across the floor. If possible, keep the area free of heavy foot traffic for the first 24 hours.
Wrapping Up: Get Expert Guidance from H&W Carpets Inc.
Laminate flooring installation can be a straightforward DIY project, but avoiding these common mistakes will save you time and stress in the long run. At H&W Carpets Inc., we’re proud to have served the Beaverton, OR, community since 1975. As a family-owned business, we’re here to support you every step of the way, from selecting the best laminate flooring to providing installation tips and tools.
