Installing laminate flooring can transform the look and feel of your home, providing a fresh and modern appearance. Preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and efficient installation process. This blog will show you through the necessary steps to prepare your home for laminate flooring installation, helping you to avoid common pitfalls and setting the stage for a successful project.
Clear the area
Before the installation can begin, it is essential to clear the area where the laminate flooring will be installed. Remove all furniture, decorations, and appliances from the room. This not only makes it easier for the installers to work but also protects your belongings from dust and damage. If you have heavy items that are strenuous to move, consider hiring professional movers to assist.
Address the subfloor
The subfloor is the foundation for your new laminate floors. Ensure that it is clean, dry, and level. Sweep or vacuum to remove any debris and dust. Check for any uneven spots or damage. Minor issues can be fixed with a patching compound, but more significant problems may require professional attention. A level subfloor will help prevent issues like warping or creaking in your new floor.
Acclimate the floors
Laminate flooring needs to acclimate to the environment of your home to prevent warping after installation. Leave the unopened boxes of laminate in the room where the floors will be installed for at least 48 hours prior to installation. This allows the laminate floors to adjust to the temperature and humidity levels of your home, which is crucial for a successful installation.
Plan for waste and cuts
During installation, some amount of material will be wasted due to cuts, particularly in rooms with irregular shapes or a lot of corners. It’s a good idea to purchase 5-10% more material than your square footage measurements to ensure that you have enough flooring to complete the job without unexpected trips back to the store.
Prepare doors and baseboards
Check if the existing doors and baseboards will interfere with the laminate flooring installation. Doors may need to be trimmed to accommodate the height of the new flooring. Remove baseboards carefully if they are to be reused, or plan for new ones if they will be replaced. This step is crucial to ensure a clean, professional finish.
Arrange for installation tools and access
Ensure that you or the installers have all the necessary tools for the job, including saws, spacers, and a tapping block. Also, provide clear access to electrical outlets and a space for cutting materials as needed. Having everything organized and accessible will speed up the installation process and help avoid delays.
Contact us for top-quality laminate flooring in Nashville, TN
Proper preparation is crucial for a smooth and successful laminate flooring installation. By clearing the area, preparing the subfloor, acclimating the laminate wood flooring, planning for waste, preparing doors and baseboards, and arranging for necessary tools and access, you can ensure that your new flooring is installed efficiently and effectively. With these steps, you’ll be ready to enjoy your beautiful new floors in no time.
L&L Flooring Company proudly offers a stunning selection of laminate flooring in Nashville, TN. We serve Nashville, Franklin, Brentwood, Nolensville, and Spring Hill, TN, from our showroom in Nashville, TN.
