How to lay laminate flooring: A step by step guide

Materials needed:

• Laminate flooring planks
• Underlay
• Tape measure
• Jigsaw with laminate blade
• Hammer
• Spacers
• Pull bar
• Tapping block
• Utility knife
• Safety goggles

Step 1: Acclimate the Flooring

Place the boxes of laminate flooring in the room where you plan on installing it. This allows the planks to acclimate to the temperature and humidity of the room. Leave them there for at least 48 hours.

Step 2: Prepare the Room

Remove the skirting boards and any existing flooring. Make sure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level before laying down the underlayment.

Step 3: Install the Underlay

Lay the underlay down across the entire floor, making sure to overlap the seams by about 8 inches. Use tape to hold the seams together.

Step 4: Plan the Layout

Measure the length and width of the room and calculate how many planks you will need. Also, decide on the direction you want the planks to run. It's usually best to install them parallel to the longest wall.

Step 5: Install the First Row of Planks

Starting along the longest wall, lay down the first row of planks. Make sure to use spacers along the wall to allow for expansion. Cut the last plank in the row to fit using a saw.

Step 6: Continue with the Following Rows

For the following rows, stagger the seams of the planks and use a tapping block and pull bar to click the planks together. Use a saw to cut the last plank in each row to fit if needed and continue until the whole floor is covered.

Step 7: Install the Baseboards

Once you have finished installing the laminate flooring, reinstall the baseboards and add any additional finishing touches you desire.

That's it! Just follow these steps and you'll be enjoying your new laminate floors in no time. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to ask!