Laminate flooring is a cost-effective and attractive way to improve the look and feel of any room. However, if you’re not careful, you could find yourself making some common mistakes that can cause your laminate installation to go wrong. Knowing what to watch out for will help you avoid them and ensure your installation is successful.
The first and most common mistake when laying laminate flooring is failing to prepare the subfloor. It’s important to make sure the surface is completely clear of debris and dust, as any remaining dirt could prevent the adhesive on the laminate flooring from setting properly. Also, any unevenness in the subfloor should be addressed beforehand with self-leveling compound, as this will create a flat surface for the flooring to be installed on.
Another mistake to be aware of is failing to check for moisture before installing the flooring. Moisture in the subfloor can cause the adhesive to fail and the laminate to start buckling and swelling. You should use a moisture meter to test the floor to ensure it’s dry and is below 80% relative humidity. If the moisture content is above this, you should address the issue before proceeding with the installation.
It’s also important to properly space the boards when laying the laminate. This is so that the expansion and contraction of the floor occurs evenly. The boards should have a minimum gap of 5mm all the way around, which can be done either with spacers or a tapping block. If the boards clash together, this can cause them to lift or buckle.
Finally, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when it comes to the adhesive or waterproofing material. If not applied or used correctly, this could cause the laminate to swell or buckle as well. You should also take care not to overfill the grooves. If you do, the excess material can seep out and cause the laminate to look uneven.
In conclusion, laying laminate flooring correctly takes some time and effort. However, by following the advice outlined above and knowing what the common mistakes are, you’ll be able to successfully install your laminate flooring and enjoy the new look and feel of your room.