Laminate flooring installation in Fort Lauderdale

If you’re looking for a simple and affordable way to enhance the appearance of your home, laminate flooring is the perfect alternative. In this step-by-step guide, we will provide you with everything you need to know to carry out this project like a pro.

Laminate flooring installation tools in Fort Lauderdale

• Laminate flooring
• Rubber mallet
• Miter saw
• Wedges
• Pry bar
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Table saw
• Nail gun

Step 1: Area Preparation

Ensure that the floor is clean, level, and free from moisture. Remove the moldings from the walls and make sure you have enough space for laminate floor expansion. It’s recommended to leave a 1/4-inch gap around the edges to allow for expansion.

Step 2: Placing the First Row

Start in a corner of the room and place the first laminate board with the tongue facing the wall, leaving the appropriate expansion gap at the edge. Use wedges to maintain a consistent space between the board and the wall, allowing the floor to expand and contract as needed. Continue placing the boards of the first row, fitting the tongues and grooves together.

Step 3: Installing the Remaining Rows

For the second row, cut a board in half and begin placing it, ensuring that the seam of the boards is not vertically aligned with the seam of the previous row, providing better stability to the floor. Continue placing the rows of boards, making sure the seams are snug, and the boards are level.

Tip: Use the rubber mallet and pry bar to assist in fitting the boards together.

Step 4: Cutting and Installing Around Obstacles

Measure and mark the boards that need to be cut to fit around doorways, columns, or other obstacles. Use a miter saw or circular saw to make the necessary cuts with the decorative face down.

Tip: Be sure to leave the appropriate expansion gap around the cutouts.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once all the boards are installed, remove the wedges and reattach the moldings to the walls. Perform a final inspection to ensure the floor is level and there are no visible gaps between the boards.

AC rating for laminate flooring in Fort Lauderdale

The AC (Abrasion Class) rating is a standard measure used to assess the resistance and durability of laminate flooring. This classification is based on tests of resistance to abrasion, impact, stains, cigarette burns, and other factors that can affect the appearance and lifespan of the floor. The AC rating is divided into different levels, ranging from AC1 to AC6, and each level is intended for specific use:

Residential use

• AC1: Suitable for areas with light traffic, such as bedrooms or low-traffic areas in the home.
• AC2: Recommended for areas with moderate traffic, like living rooms and dining rooms in residential homes.
• AC3: Ideal for areas with heavy traffic in homes, as well as for light commercial use, such as offices or small stores.

Commercial use

• AC4: Designed to withstand heavy traffic in commercial settings, such as restaurants, shops, and offices.
• AC5: Recommended for highly trafficked commercial applications, like large retail stores or public buildings.
• AC6: The highest resistance rating, designed for extremely heavy commercial use, such as airports or highly crowded shopping centers.

Pros and cons of laminate flooring in Fort Lauderdale

Consider these advantages and disadvantages when deciding if laminate floors are the right option for you… Evaluate your needs and lifestyle before making a final decision.

Pros of laminate flooring

• Variety of Designs: Laminate floors offer a wide range of designs and styles that mimic the look of natural materials such as wood, tiles, or stone. This allows you to find the style that best suits your home’s aesthetics.
• Durability: Laminate floors are highly durable and resistant to wear, stains, and scratches. They are ideal for high-traffic areas and can withstand daily wear without losing their original appearance.
• Easy Maintenance: The surface of laminate floors is easy to clean and maintain; they only require regular sweeping or vacuuming and occasional wiping with a damp cloth to remove stains. There’s no need for waxing or special products.
• Easy Installation: Laminate floors often feature click or lock systems that make installation easy. You can save time and money by choosing DIY installation without the need to hire a professional.

Cons of laminate flooring

• Sensitivity to Moisture: Laminate floors are not suitable for wet or moisture-prone areas such as bathrooms, laundries, or unfinished basements because constant exposure to moisture can damage the laminate flooring.
• Difficulty in Repairs: If a section of laminate flooring gets damaged, it can be challenging to repair. Typically, you need to replace the affected board instead of repairing it, which can be complicated if the floor is installed throughout the room.

Areas we serve

We have various service areas in Fort Lauderdale, and, of course, its surroundings, so you can find the perfect laminate flooring.

• Coral Ridge, Poinciana Park, Shady Banks, Tarpon River, River Oaks, Victoria Park, Middle River Terrace, Riverside Park, Lake Ridge, Sailboat Bend, Central Beach, Dorsey Riverbend, Harbordale, City View, Edgewood, South Middle River, Lauderdale Isles, Boulevard Gardens, Sunset, Roosevelt Gardens, Melrose Park, Washington Park and Lauderdale Manors.