How to Install Laminate Flooring

Laminate is a durable and cost effective flooring option that adds great aesthetic to any room. One of its benefits is that you can install it yourself with the 8 easy steps below:

  1. Remove Tongue

For the first row along straight walls, remove the tongue on all long side joints and the short side of the first plank using a table saw.

  1. Assemble First Row

Assemble the first row with tongue side way from the wall. Insert the end tongue into the end of the adjacent plank’s groove at an angle and rotate downward to assemble. Keep planks aligned and joints closed.

  1. Provide Space for Expansion

Provide a 1cm space for expansion on all sides using wooden spacers.

  1. Assemble Second Row

Insert the tongue of the second-row plank into the groove of the first-row plank at a slight angle until the laminate edges meet. Next, rotate down until the joints lock

Pro Tip: To keep installed planks in place during installation, place the box of planks flush against the end of the row you’re installing.

  1. You can also try…

Align tongues into the grooves of the long and short sides of the planks and tap lightly along the long side until the joint is closed tightly

Pro Tip: Using excessive force may damage the joint.

  1. Apply Sealant

Once the floor is completed, apply a flexible, 100-percent silicone sealant to the entire perimeter to create a watertight seal.