Laminate flooring buying guide

We also show you what you need to consider for your perfect purchase. These 5 tips show you what not to forget.

Tip #1: Moldings

If you are renovating, it will probably be necessary to remove the old moldings. Or, if it is a new home project. You will certainly need to include the moldings in your purchase. You can also choose them to match your floor or in basic colors.

Tip #2: Transition moldings

Also, it will require transition moldings. For the joints between your laminate flooring and other living spaces. Or to finish with the gap where you are going to install your floor. These should match the design of your laminate floor.

Tip #3: Children and pets

According to the specific needs of your project. Consider if your home will have children or pets. Choosing water-resistant floors is a good idea. Also, scratch and stain-resistant.

Tip #4: Spaces in your home

Likewise, take into account the space where you want to install your laminate flooring. They are mainly recommended for living rooms, halls, bedrooms, and dining rooms.

Tip #5: Flooring quality

Finally, don’t forget that laminate flooring has different AC ratings. For this reason, choose AC1 if they are low traffic areas. Or, choose AC2 and AC3 for residential traffic areas.

Laminate flooring installation cost

One of the main questions that come up when you apply for this service. Is the cost you will have. First of all, it is worth saying that, Laminate floors have a great variety of styles and colors. Besides, their appearance is similar to hardwood floors. However, they are more affordable in terms of cost. As well as in their installation.

Average total project costs for laminate flooring are between $3.30 – $4.30 per square foot.

These costs include:

• Installation: $1.50 – $2.50 per square foot.
• Materials: $1.60 per square foot.
• Underlayment: $0.20 per square foot.

Therefore, when you request your quote. Keep in mind to include the floor, underlayment, materials, and labor. Also, it is important to consider that installation costs may vary. According to the particular needs of your project.

Laminate flooring installation guide

Below are the guidelines for laminate flooring installation. These 6 steps will allow you to check the quality of our service.

Step 1: Prepare the installation

In this step, the laminate flooring and the underlayment are prepared. Therefore, you must acclimatize the pieces to be installed for 72 hours. These instructions will be given by your professional installer at the measurement appointment. During this time you can mix the pieces from different boxes. Besides, you can design the pattern you want.

For the underlayment, you must remove everything from the room. Also, remove the old moldings. And if you wish also the door frames. Also, in this step, it will be important to read the manufacturer’s instructions. Because you may need some additional equipment or material.

Step 2: Underlayment Installation

Once you have your space free of any items. And that, also, you have thoroughly cleaned the floor where you are going to install your laminate floor. We start laying the underlayment or anti-acoustic base on the floor. Then, spread the roll out completely. After this, if you need more material, extend a second roll.

Finally, the tape is used to join the ends of the rolls. In this way, the whole subfloor is covered. The underlayment’s importance is focused on being a thermal and acoustic barrier. Besides, it helps to save small imperfections of the subfloor that could affect your floor.

Step 3: Start the laminate flooring installation

To begin, place the planks in the first row. It is recommended to start with the longest wall of the room. This will save time and materials. Then, lay the first plank, and don’t forget to place the spacers. Then, for the second piece, place the tongue in the groove. Lift the piece at an angle. Once you have set the groove, lay the piece down on the floor. Finally, you will hear a click to ensure that they are adjusted.

Repeat these steps for all the planks in the first row. Finally, you must measure the last piece. It will most likely not be the size of the room. Therefore, measure the space taking into account the 3/8″ for expansion. Then, cut the piece and fit it in the same way as the previous ones. You can also secure the last row with the drawbar. Because the space can be small to turn it.

Step 4: Install the next floor rows

With the piece leftover from the first row, start the second row. Be sure to stagger the joints. This will give the floor firmness and stability. Also, improve the design of the floor.

To begin, take the piece and place the groove in the tab again. But this time on the long side of the plank. Once you have fitted it, turn to the floor to adjust.

Continue with the second plank in this row and finish it. Then repeat these same steps for the rows you require. Likewise, do not forget to place the spacers on all the edges. Because your laminate floor will expand over time.

Step 5: Install the last row

When you reach the end of the room, measure the space available. Then pass this measurement to the width of the plank. Likewise, don’t forget to leave the expansion space. Next, cut the planks to length in the measure you took. Finally, for the flooring installation, use the pull bar and the rubber hammer to adjust.

In this step, keep in mind to hit evenly along the board. Also, check that there are no spaces between the tables. Finally, remove all spacers from the floor.

Step 6: Installation of final parts

With your laminate flooring installed, only the finishing touches remain. Initially, place the molding you chose around the room. Also, secure them with nails and a hammer. Then, if you have removed the door jambs. Replace them. Finally, locate the transition moldings.

Frequently asked questions about laminate flooring installation

In this section, we answer the frequently asked questions about laminate flooring installation.

Is the molding installation required with my laminate flooring?

Definitely yes. The moldings are an essential part of your project. Our professionals will install not only your laminate flooring. They will also install the chosen moldings.

Where can laminate flooring be installed?

The laminate flooring installation can be done in all your rooms. Also, they are perfect for people traffic in halls and living rooms. On the other hand, we do not recommend their installation in kitchens or bathrooms. Because they are not waterproof. However, for these spaces, there are other suitable flooring options.

How much does laminate flooring installation cost?

The installation cost of your laminate flooring will depend on the size of your space. Also, the materials you require. This means, moldings and transition pieces. Therefore, in your quote, you will receive the detail of the associated costs.

When does the installation or laminate flooring require a moisture barrier?

If you are installing your laminate flooring on concrete. Besides, the underlayment. It is recommended to install a moisture barrier. Due to the fact that laminate flooring contains wood.

Is underlayment required for installing laminate flooring?

Although, it is not necessary for the installation. It is recommended to install underlayment with the laminate flooring. Because it allows to reduce moisture and sound. It also improves the comfort under your feet.

Why choose Best Laminate Flooring?

First, because our laminate flooring collections are of a wide variety. Therefore, you will find the design and style you are looking for. Also, we offer excellent quality and warranty. On the other hand, our installers are certified. Besides, they are highly experienced. In all kinds of projects. From your beautiful living room and bedrooms. Going through garages, yards, kitchens, and bathrooms. 

The quality of our service will be seen in your result. We are known for our quality of service, performance, and guarantee. Undoubtedly, the budgets will be in accordance with your needs. To offer our over 15 years of experience at your disposal.