Beginners' Guide to Installing Laminate Flooring in Easy Steps

Laminate Flooring Installation: A Step-by-Step Guide to a Successful Project

Anthony Arphan
January 1, 1
25 min read

Are you ready to give your home a fresh new look? Installing laminate flooring is a great way to transform any room with minimal effort. Whether you’re a beginner DIY enthusiast or have never picked up a hammer before, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, making it easy and stress-free.

Before you start, it’s important to gather all the necessary tools and materials. You’ll need a tape measure, a pencil, a circular saw or a jigsaw, a tapping block, a pull bar, and a hammer. Don’t forget to purchase enough laminate flooring, underlayment, and transition pieces to cover your space.

Once you have everything you need, it’s time to plan your installation. Start by measuring the room and calculating the square footage of laminate flooring you’ll need. Remember to account for any closets or alcoves. Next, decide on the direction you want the planks to run, as this will affect the overall look of the room. It’s generally recommended to lay the planks parallel to the longest wall for a visually pleasing result.

Preparing the Area

Before installing laminate flooring, it’s crucial to properly prepare the area to ensure a seamless installation process. Here are the steps to take:

1. Clear the room: Remove all furniture, rugs, and any other items from the room. This will create an empty space to work with and prevent any obstructions during the installation.

2. Clean the subfloor: Thoroughly clean the subfloor by sweeping or vacuuming any dirt, dust, or debris. It’s important to have a clean and smooth surface for the laminate flooring to adhere to.

3. Level the subfloor: Inspect the subfloor for any unevenness or dips. Use a leveling compound to fill in any low spots and create a flat surface. Allow the compound to dry completely before proceeding.

4. Acclimate the laminate flooring: Remove the packaging from the laminate flooring and let it sit in the room for at least 48 hours to acclimate to the temperature and humidity of the space. This will help prevent any buckling or warping of the planks after installation.

5. Check for moisture: Use a moisture meter to test the moisture levels of the subfloor. Ensure that it is within the manufacturer’s recommendations for laminate flooring installation. If the moisture levels are too high, take the necessary steps to reduce it before proceeding.

6. Lay down a vapor barrier: Install a vapor barrier over the subfloor to prevent moisture from seeping up and damaging the laminate flooring. Overlap the seams and secure the barrier using tape, ensuring it covers the entire floor area.

By following these steps to prepare the area, you’ll be ready to move on to the next stage of installing laminate flooring – laying the underlayment.

Gather Materials and Tools

To install laminate flooring, you will need a variety of materials and tools. Here are the essential items you should gather before starting your project:

Laminate planks: Purchase enough laminate planks to cover the square footage of your desired area. Make sure to buy extra for any potential mistakes or future repairs.

Underlayment: This material is installed under the laminate planks to provide cushioning and sound absorption. Choose an underlayment suitable for your specific flooring type.

Tape measure: Accurate measurements are crucial for a successful installation. Use a tape measure to measure the dimensions of the room and calculate the amount of laminate flooring needed.

Saw: A saw is necessary for cutting laminate planks to the correct size. You can use a handsaw, circular saw, or a jigsaw, depending on your preference and availability.

Installation kit: An installation kit typically includes spacers, a tapping block, and a pull bar. These tools are essential for properly installing laminate flooring and ensuring tight joints.

Hammer: A hammer is useful for tapping the planks into place and securing them properly. Choose a hammer with a rubberized handle to prevent damage to the flooring surface.

Utility knife: A utility knife is handy for cutting the underlayment and making precise cuts on the laminate planks. Make sure to use a sharp blade for clean and accurate cuts.

Level: A level is essential to ensure that the subfloor is even and the laminate planks are installed correctly. Use a long level to check for any uneven areas and make necessary adjustments.

Mallet: A rubber mallet is useful for gently tapping the planks into place without damaging their surface. This tool helps ensure a snug fit and tight seams between the planks.

Protective gear: Wear safety goggles, gloves, and a dust mask to protect yourself from potential hazards during the installation process.

Having all the necessary materials and tools ready before you start the installation will make the process smoother and more efficient. Make sure to gather everything you need to avoid interruptions and delays.

Clean the Floor

Before installing laminate flooring, it is essential tostart with a clean and smooth surface. Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove anydust, dirt, or debris. Use a damp mop or cloth to clean any stains or spills onthe floor. It is important to ensure that the floor is completely dry beforeinstalling the laminate flooring.

Additionally, inspect the floor for any unevenness or damage. Fill in any gaps or cracks with a suitable floor filler and allow it to dry completely. This will ensure that the floor is level and prepared for the installation of the laminate flooring.

Remember, a clean and smooth floor is crucial for the proper installation and longevity of your laminate flooring. Take the time to properly clean and prepare the floor before starting the installation process.

Remove Baseboards and Trim

Before installing laminate flooring, it is important to remove the baseboards and trim from the walls. This step will create a clean and even surface for the new flooring to be installed.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to remove baseboards and trim:

By following these steps, you will successfully remove the baseboards and trim, preparing the space for the installation of the laminate flooring. It is important to take your time and work carefully to avoid any damage to the walls during this process.

Acclimating the Laminate Flooring

Before beginning the installation process, it is essential to acclimate the laminate flooring. Acclimating the flooring is an important step as it allows the laminate planks to adjust to the humidity and temperature of the room where they will be installed. This helps to prevent the planks from expanding or shrinking after installation.

Here are the steps to acclimate the laminate flooring:

Unbox the laminate flooring: Start by carefully unboxing the laminate flooring and removing any packaging materials. Be sure to handle the planks with care to avoid any damage.
Separate the planks: Once the laminate flooring is unboxed, separate the planks and lay them flat on the floor in the room where they will be installed. Leave a small gap between each plank to promote airflow.
Allow time for acclimation: Let the laminate flooring acclimate to the room’s conditions for at least 48 hours. This will allow the planks to adjust to the humidity and temperature, ensuring a more stable installation.
Maintain the room’s conditions: During the acclimation period, it is important to maintain the room’s conditions as close as possible to the normal living conditions. Keep the room’s temperature and humidity levels within the manufacturer’s recommended range.

By acclimating the laminate flooring properly, you can ensure a successful and long-lasting installation. Skipping this step can result in gaps or buckling in the planks, which can affect the overall appearance and performance of the floor.

Unbox the Flooring

Before you start installing your laminate flooring, you’ll need to unbox it and let it acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours. This is important to ensure that the flooring is able to expand or contract based on the environment it will be installed in.

Follow these steps to unbox the flooring:

Clear a space in the room where you’ll be installing the flooring. Make sure the area is clean and free from any obstacles that may interfere with the installation process.
Carefully open the boxes of laminate flooring. Take care not to damage the planks as you remove them from the packaging.
Inspect the planks for any visible defects or damages. If you notice any issues, contact the manufacturer or retailer to resolve the problem before continuing with the installation.
Place the unboxed laminate flooring in the room where it will be installed. Leave a small gap between each box to allow air to circulate around the planks.
Let the flooring sit in the room for at least 48 hours. This will allow it to adjust to the temperature and humidity of the space.

By unboxing the flooring and letting it acclimate to the room, you’re ensuring that it will be in the best possible condition for installation. This step is crucial to the overall success and durability of your laminate flooring project.

Allow Flooring to Adjust to Room Conditions

Before you begin installing your laminate flooring, it’s important to allow the flooring to adjust to the room conditions. Laminate flooring needs time to acclimate to the temperature and humidity of the space it is being installed in to prevent any issues with expansion or contraction later on.

First, make sure that the room where you will be installing the flooring is at a consistent temperature and humidity level. This will help ensure that the laminate flooring adjusts properly and avoids any potential damage.

Unbox the laminate flooring and remove any packaging materials. Lay the flooring out in the room where it will be installed, allowing for a gap between each plank. This will allow the planks to adjust to the environment and prevent them from warping or buckling once they are installed.

It’s recommended to let the flooring acclimate for at least 48 hours, but you should check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific recommendations. During this time, keep the room at the proper temperature and humidity level to ensure the best results.

Important: Do not skip the step of allowing your laminate flooring to adjust to the room conditions. Skipping this step can lead to problems with the installation and may void any warranties provided by the manufacturer.

Take the time to properly acclimate your laminate flooring before installation. This step will help ensure a successful and long-lasting installation.

Store Flooring in the Room

Before beginning the installation process, it is important to store your laminate flooring in the room where it will be installed for at least 48 hours. This is necessary to allow the flooring to acclimate to the temperature and humidity levels of the room.

Make sure the room is clean, dry, and free from any debris before bringing in the boxes of flooring. It is best to keep the boxes stacked flat on the floor, with a small gap between each box to allow for proper air circulation. Avoid storing the flooring in direct sunlight or near any heating or cooling vents.

By allowing the flooring to acclimate in the room, you minimize the risk of any warping or buckling that may occur if the flooring is installed without proper acclimation. This step ensures the longevity and durability of your laminate flooring.

Measuring and Layout

Before starting the installation process, it’s crucial to measure the space where you’ll be installing the laminate flooring. This will help you determine the amount of flooring materials you’ll need to purchase.

First, measure the length and width of the room, taking into account any alcoves or nooks that may require additional flooring. It’s recommended to use a tape measure for accuracy.

Next, calculate the square footage of the room by multiplying the length by the width. For example, if the room is 10 feet by 12 feet, the square footage would be 120 square feet.

When purchasing laminate flooring, it’s advisable to buy an extra 10% of flooring materials to account for waste and potential mistakes during installation. This ensures that you’ll have enough materials to complete the project.

After measuring the room, decide on the layout of the laminate planks. You can choose to lay the planks parallel to the longest wall in the room, which can create a visually appealing effect. Another option is to lay the planks perpendicular to the longest wall, which can make the room appear wider.

Consider the direction of natural light and how it will affect the appearance of the laminate flooring. It’s recommended to install the planks parallel to the principal source of light for a more uniform look.

Take note of any obstacles or features in the room, such as doorways, vents, or cabinets. Plan the layout accordingly to ensure that the laminate flooring fits neatly around these obstacles.

Once you’ve measured the room and decided on the layout, it’s time to purchase the laminate flooring and gather the necessary tools for installation.

Tip: It’s always a good idea to have a few extra laminate planks on hand, just in case any repairs or replacements are needed down the line.

Measure the Room Dimensions

Before you can begin installing laminate flooring, it’s important to measure the dimensions of the room. This will ensure that you purchase the correct amount of flooring and have a clear idea of how it will fit into the space.

Here are the steps to measure the room dimensions:

Clear the room: Remove any furniture, rugs, or other obstacles from the room so that you have a clean and clear space to work with.
Measure the length: Use a tape measure to determine the length of the room by measuring from one wall to the other. Make sure to measure at the longest part of the room, as this will give you the most accurate measurement.
Measure the width: Measure the width of the room by measuring from one side wall to the opposite side wall. Again, be sure to measure at the widest part of the room for accuracy.
Account for any alcoves or indentations: If your room has any alcoves or indentations, measure these separately and subtract their dimensions from the total length and width measurements. This will give you the correct dimensions for the main area of the room.
Calculate the square footage: To determine how much laminate flooring you’ll need, multiply the length by the width of the main area of the room. This will give you the square footage that you’ll need to cover with laminate flooring.

By taking the time to accurately measure the room dimensions, you’ll be well-prepared to purchase the correct amount of laminate flooring and ensure a smooth installation process.

Plan the Layout

Before you start installing laminate flooring, it’s important to plan the layout of your project. This will help ensure a smooth and seamless installation process. Here are some steps to follow:

Measure the room: Start by measuring the dimensions of the room where you’ll be installing the laminate flooring. This will help you determine how much material you’ll need.
Consider the direction: Think about the direction in which you want the laminate planks to run. Typically, they are installed parallel to the longest wall in the room. This can make the room appear larger.
Think about transitions: Take into account any transitions you’ll need to make, such as doorways or areas where the laminate flooring will meet another type of flooring. Plan how you’ll handle these transitions for a seamless look.
Layout the planks: Use a measuring tape and chalk line to lay out the first row of planks along the starting wall. This will help you visualize the layout and make any necessary adjustments before installation.
Plan for expansion gaps: Laminate flooring needs room to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity. Make sure to leave a gap of about 1/4 inch around the perimeter of the room to accommodate for this movement.

By taking the time to plan the layout of your laminate flooring project, you’ll set yourself up for success and ensure a beautiful end result.

Calculate the Amount of Flooring Needed

Before you begin the installation process, it’s important to determine the amount of laminate flooring you’ll need. This will help you avoid any unnecessary trips to the store and ensure that you have enough material to complete the project.

To calculate the amount of flooring needed, you’ll first need to measure the square footage of the room. Start by measuring the length and width of the room and multiplying these two measurements together. For example, if the room is 12 feet long and 10 feet wide, the square footage would be 120 square feet.

Next, you’ll need to consider the waste factor. It’s a good idea to add an extra 10% to account for any mistakes, cuts, or future repairs. So, in this case, you would multiply the square footage by 1.10 to get a total of 132 square feet.

Now, you’ll need to check the packaging of the laminate flooring you’ve chosen to see how many square feet are in each box. Divide the total square footage by the square footage per box to determine how many boxes you’ll need to purchase. Round up to the nearest whole number to ensure that you have enough material.

It’s always a good idea to purchase an extra box or two, just in case. This will ensure that you have enough material for any future repairs or modifications that may be needed.

Pro Tip: Keep in mind that this method assumes you have a square or rectangular room. If your room has a unique shape or features, you may need to divide it into sections and calculate the square footage for each section separately.

By following these steps to calculate the amount of flooring needed, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle your laminate flooring installation with confidence and ease.

Preparing the Subfloor

Before installing laminate flooring, it’s important to ensure that the subfloor is clean, level, and free from any imperfections. Here are the steps to prepare the subfloor:

Clean the subfloor: Remove any dust, dirt, or debris from the existing subfloor. Use a broom, vacuum, and a damp mop to thoroughly clean the surface.
Check for moisture: Use a moisture meter to check the moisture levels of the subfloor. Laminate flooring requires a moisture content of below 12% to avoid any issues with expansion or contraction. If the moisture levels are too high, it’s important to address the issue before proceeding with the installation.
Repair any damage: Inspect the subfloor for any damage, such as cracks, holes, or uneven areas. Fill in any cracks or holes with floor patching compound, and level any uneven areas using a self-leveling compound. Allow the compounds to dry and cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Remove any existing flooring: If there is any existing flooring, such as carpet, vinyl, or hardwood, remove it before installing laminate flooring. Use a utility knife, pry bar, and other appropriate tools to carefully remove the old flooring. Dispose of the old flooring according to local regulations.
Acclimate the laminate flooring: Once the subfloor is ready, acclimate the laminate flooring to the room. Leave the unopened boxes of laminate flooring in the room for at least 48 hours, allowing them to adjust to the temperature and humidity of the space.

By properly preparing the subfloor, you can ensure a smooth and successful installation of laminate flooring. Taking the time to clean, repair, and level the subfloor will help to avoid any issues with the laminate flooring in the long run.

Check and Repair the Subfloor

Before installing laminate flooring, it is crucial to check the condition of the subfloor. The subfloor should be clean, dry, and level to ensure the proper installation of the laminate flooring. Follow these steps to check and repair the subfloor:

Inspect the subfloor for any visible damage such as warping, water damage, or cracks. If you notice any issues, it is important to fix them before proceeding with the installation.
Ensure that the subfloor is free of any dust, dirt, or debris. Use a broom or vacuum cleaner to clean the surface thoroughly.
Check the moisture levels of the subfloor using a moisture meter. The moisture content should be within the acceptable range specified by the laminate flooring manufacturer.
If there are any high or low spots on the subfloor, use a leveling compound to even out the surface. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to apply the leveling compound properly.
Inspect the subfloor for squeaks or loose boards. If you find any, reinforce the subfloor by screwing down loose boards or adding additional support where needed.
Once the subfloor is inspected, cleaned, and repaired, you can proceed with the installation of the laminate flooring with confidence that the foundation is secure and suitable for the installation.

By taking the time to check and repair the subfloor before installing laminate flooring, you can ensure a smooth and successful installation process. Skipping this step can lead to future issues and damage to your new laminate flooring. So, it’s always better to be proactive and address any subfloor issues before moving forward.

Install Vapor Barrier (If Required)

Before you begin installing laminate flooring, it’s important to check whether a vapor barrier is needed for your specific installation. A vapor barrier is a thin layer of material that helps to prevent moisture from seeping up through the subfloor and damaging your new flooring.

To determine if a vapor barrier is necessary, you should first consider the type of subfloor you have. If you have a concrete subfloor, a vapor barrier is usually recommended as concrete can retain moisture. On the other hand, if you have a plywood or particleboard subfloor, a vapor barrier may not be needed if the subfloor is in good condition and there are no signs of moisture issues.

If a vapor barrier is required, you will need to purchase a roll of plastic sheeting that is specifically designed for this purpose. The vapor barrier should be laid out over the entire subfloor, ensuring that it covers the entire surface and extends up the walls by a few inches.

To install the vapor barrier, start by cleaning the subfloor and removing any debris. Then, roll out the plastic sheeting, ensuring that it is flat and smooth. Use a utility knife to trim the sheeting to size, leaving enough material to extend up the walls. Secure the sheeting in place by using tape or staples.

Once the vapor barrier is installed, you can proceed with the installation of the laminate flooring. Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take your time to ensure a proper installation. Installing a vapor barrier can help prolong the life of your laminate flooring by protecting it from moisture damage.

Important: Always check the specific requirements of your laminate flooring manufacturer as well as any local building codes to ensure you follow the correct installation procedures.

Level the Subfloor (If Necessary)

Before installing laminate flooring, it’s important to ensure that your subfloor is level. Uneven subfloors can result in a bumpy and unstable laminate floor installation. To level the subfloor, follow these steps:

Step 1: Inspect the Subfloor

Start by examining the subfloor for any visible signs of damage or unevenness. Look for dips, bumps, or cracks in the subflooring material.

Step 2: Remove Obstacles

If there are any obstacles or barriers in the way, such as nails, screws, or adhesive residue, remove them to create a smooth surface.

Step 3: Fill in Low Spots

If there are any low spots or holes in the subfloor, fill them in with a leveling compound. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to properly apply the leveling compound and ensure that the surface is flat.

Step 4: Sand High Areas

If there are any high spots on the subfloor, use a sander or sanding block to smooth them down. This will help create a level surface for the laminate flooring to be installed on.

Step 5: Clean the Subfloor

Once the subfloor is level, thoroughly clean it to remove any dust or debris. A clean surface is essential for proper installation of the laminate flooring.

Step 6: Test the Subfloor

After leveling the subfloor, test its levelness by placing a long level or straightedge across the floor. If there are any areas that are not level, make the necessary adjustments before proceeding with the installation.

Note: It’s important to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific laminate flooring product to ensure that you follow their recommended subfloor preparation procedures.

By taking the time to level your subfloor before installing laminate flooring, you will ensure a smooth and stable foundation for your new floor. This will help prolong the lifespan of your laminate flooring and ensure a professional-looking installation.

Installing Underlayment

Before you begin installing your laminate flooring, it’s important to first install the underlayment. The underlayment is a thin layer of material that is placed between the subfloor and the laminate flooring to help smooth out any imperfections and reduce noise. Follow these steps to install the underlayment:

Step 1: Start by cleaning the subfloor thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. This will ensure that the underlayment adheres properly.

Step 2: Roll out the underlayment across the entire floor, with the edges overlapping by about 2 inches. Make sure the underlayment is in line with the direction you plan to lay your laminate flooring.

Step 3: Secure the underlayment to the floor using a staple gun or double-sided tape. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best method of installation.

Step 4: Trim off any excess underlayment using a utility knife. Make sure to leave a gap of about 1/4 inch around the edges of the room to allow for expansion.

Step 5: Inspect the underlayment to ensure it is smooth and free of any wrinkles or bumps. These imperfections can affect the final appearance of your laminate flooring.

Step 6: Once the underlayment is properly installed, you are ready to proceed with the installation of your laminate flooring. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.

By taking the time to install the underlayment correctly, you can ensure that your laminate flooring will have a durable and smooth surface to rest on. This will help to extend the lifespan of your flooring and provide a more comfortable and quiet space in your home.

Roll Out the Underlayment

Before you begin installing the laminate flooring, you’ll want to roll out the underlayment. The underlayment is a thin, resilient material that helps to reduce noise and provide a smooth surface for the laminate to be installed on.

Start by unrolling the underlayment along the longest wall of the room, making sure to leave a small gap between the edge of the underlayment and the wall. This gap will allow for any expansion of the laminate flooring.

If you need to join multiple pieces of underlayment together, overlap them by about 1-2 inches and use a piece of tape to secure the seams. Make sure the seams are flat and smooth to avoid any imperfections in the laminate flooring.

Once the underlayment is rolled out, use a utility knife to trim any excess material along the edges of the room. Be careful not to cut into the walls or baseboards.

If you’re installing the laminate flooring over a concrete subfloor, you may need to add a moisture barrier between the underlayment and the concrete. This will help to prevent any moisture from seeping up into the laminate and causing damage.

After the underlayment is in place, you’re ready to start installing the laminate flooring. The underlayment will provide a smooth and stable surface for the laminate, ensuring a professional-looking installation.

Materials Needed	Tools Needed
- Underlayment	- Utility knife
- Tape	- Measuring tape
- Moisture barrier (if needed)	- Straight edge

Cut and Fit the Underlayment

Before installing laminate flooring, it is important to prepare the subfloor by installing an underlayment. The underlayment provides a smooth and even surface for the laminate planks to lay on, as well as helps to reduce noise and increase insulation.

To cut and fit the underlayment, start by measuring the dimensions of the room and roll out the underlayment. Use a utility knife or scissors to cut the underlayment to the correct size, leaving a gap of about 1/4 inch around the edges to allow for expansion.

Next, lay the cut pieces of underlayment on the subfloor, making sure to overlap the edges by about 2 inches. This will help to create a continuous barrier against moisture. Secure the underlayment to the subfloor using a staple gun or adhesive, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Once the underlayment is properly cut and fitted, you are ready to start installing the laminate flooring. Remember to always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific installation guidelines for your particular laminate flooring product.

Secure the Underlayment in Place

Before you begin installing the laminate flooring, it’s important to secure the underlayment in place. The underlayment acts as a barrier between the subfloor and the laminate flooring, providing cushioning and reducing noise.

To secure the underlayment, start by rolling it out across the entire floor. Make sure to overlap the seams by several inches to create a tight seal. Next, use a utility knife to trim any excess underlayment along the edges of the room.

Once the underlayment is in place, use a staple gun or flooring tape to secure it to the subfloor. If you’re using a staple gun, insert staples every 6-8 inches along the edges and every 12 inches in the field. Make sure the staples are flush with the underlayment to avoid any bumps or unevenness.

If you prefer to use flooring tape, simply peel off the backing and press the tape firmly onto the underlayment, making sure it adheres securely. Repeat this process until the entire underlayment is secured.

By securing the underlayment in place, you’ll create a smooth and stable surface for the laminate flooring installation. This step is essential for ensuring a successful and durable end result.

Installing the First Row

Before you begin installing laminate flooring, it’s important to start with the first row. This is a crucial step that sets the foundation for the rest of the installation process.

Here are the steps to install the first row of laminate flooring:

Measure the width of the room to determine the width of the last row. Divide this measurement by the width of the laminate planks to get the number of rows needed.
Remove any existing baseboards or trim from the walls where you’ll be installing the laminate flooring.
Start in a corner of the room and lay out the first row of laminate planks. Make sure to leave a 1/4-inch gap between the edge of the planks and the wall to allow for expansion.
Use spacers to maintain the 1/4-inch gap between the planks and the wall. This will ensure a clean and professional-looking installation.
Connect the planks together by inserting the tongue of one plank into the groove of the next. Use a tapping block and mallet to gently tap each plank into place.
Continue installing the first row until you reach the end of the room. If needed, cut the last plank to fit using a saw.
Once the first row is complete, proceed to install the subsequent rows following the same process. Make sure to stagger the planks to create a more natural and visually appealing look.

By taking the time to properly install the first row, you’ll ensure a smooth and successful laminate flooring installation