Putting Down Laminate Wood Flooring

Laminate wood flooring is a popular choice for homeowners who want the look of hardwood floors without the high cost. Laminate flooring is made of a fiberboard core with a photographic image of wood grain on top. It is then coated with a clear, wear-resistant layer.

Laminate flooring is easy to install and can be done by do-it-yourselfers with basic tools. Here are the steps on how to put down laminate wood flooring:

1. Prepare the subfloor

The first step is to prepare the subfloor. The subfloor should be level, smooth, and dry. If the subfloor is not level, you will need to level it using a self-leveling compound. If the subfloor is not smooth, you will need to sand it down. If the subfloor is not dry, you will need to let it dry completely before installing the laminate flooring.

2. Install the underlayment

Once the subfloor is prepared, you will need to install the underlayment. The underlayment will help to protect the laminate flooring from moisture and noise. There are many different types of underlayment available, so be sure to choose one that is appropriate for your needs.

3. Start laying the laminate flooring

Once the underlayment is installed, you can start laying the laminate flooring. Start by laying a row of flooring along one wall. Be sure to stagger the joints in the flooring so that they do not line up. Once the first row is laid, you can continue laying the flooring in rows until the entire floor is covered.

4. Trim the flooring

Once the flooring is laid, you will need to trim the edges of the flooring so that it fits snugly against the walls and other obstacles. You can use a jigsaw or a circular saw to trim the flooring.

5. Install the moldings

Once the flooring is trimmed, you can install the moldings. The moldings will help to hide the expansion gap around the edges of the flooring. There are many different types of moldings available, so be sure to choose one that matches the style of your flooring.