How to Avoid Common Problems when Installing Laminate Flooring

Steps Method 1 Preparing for Installation

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Are all of the planks the same length?

wikiHow Contributor

All the planks from a manufacturer are one length, but you should cut them to fit your floor.

Do I have to have a lock on each end of the laminate, or can I use scraps from time to time with no locks to reduce waste?

wikiHow Contributor

When you get one row done and you need to saw a piece of the laminate off, you can use it as the beginning of the next row. Then the part without a lock is facing the wall anyway.

Can I install laminate on top of ceramic tiles?

wikiHow Contributor

Yes, but only if the tile is in good condition and level. If it is damaged or starting to come up, then you should remove it first or you will end up with a disaster and it will waste your money. There could also be a height issue with the doors.

Do I need to lay polythene under the underlay on a wooden ground floor before installing the laminate?

wikiHow Contributor

Follow the manufacturer's recommendation. Some require polyethylene in addition to padding, some allow it, and others will void the warranty if you use plastic on a wood sub floor.

Will there be short pieces at the end of a row?

wikiHow Contributor

When you cut the pieces, yes, there will be shorter pieces at the end. You may then use the other part of that cut piece as the beginning of the next row.

I have just discovered some bulges in my newly installed laminate floor. Is there any way to repair this?

wikiHow Contributor

The bulges probably mean that the floor is not flat, which means starting over again, I'm afraid. You must check and control the flatness. Also check for any damp areas -- this would swell the laminate (if wood). And don't forget to lay an underlay -- felt or a rubber-composite-type floor covering.

How should I treat the edge finishing at the front door?

wikiHow Contributor

Use a t-molding or other transition strip made for joining carpet, tile etc.

Do I have to glue the laminate onto a tile floor, or will be the underlayment be enough?

wikiHow Contributor

It is best to fit a laminate floor as a floating floor, with expansion gaps around the edges. If you glue the laminate down, you will run into problems as the humidity and temperature naturally changes.

What do I do when an ending wall has too big of a gap?

wikiHow Contributor

Ideally, use a table saw to rip the width down to fit, otherwise carefully use a jigsaw or circular saw - cutting from the underside, with masking tape along the cut line. Try a small cut first to see which way minimizes chipping.

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How to Avoid Common Problems when Installing Laminate Flooring