Select Surfaces Driftwood Laminate Flooring Installation

Essential Aspects of Select Surfaces Driftwood Laminate Flooring Installation

Installing Select Surfaces Driftwood Laminate Flooring can transform your living space. With its realistic woodgrain texture and durable construction, this flooring offers an elegant and practical addition to any home. To ensure a successful installation, it's crucial to consider several essential aspects.

1. Subfloor Preparation

Laminate flooring requires a smooth, level subfloor for optimal performance. Remove any existing flooring, ensure the subfloor is flat, and repair any imperfections. Use a level to check for any uneven areas and make necessary adjustments.

2. Moisture Barrier

To protect your flooring from moisture, install a plastic moisture barrier over the subfloor. Start by overlapping the barrier by at least 6 inches and secure it with tape. Fold the excess barrier up along the walls to create a moisture-resistant barrier.

3. Underlayment

Underlayment provides additional support and insulation for the flooring. Choose an underlayment specifically designed for laminate flooring, as it helps reduce noise and unevenness.

4. Plank Assembly

Start laying the planks from the farthest corner of the room. Begin by connecting two planks with the male end of one plank inserted into the female end of another. Continue connecting planks row by row, tapping them together with a tapping block and hammer.

5. Expansion Gaps

Laminate flooring expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity. To prevent buckling, leave a small expansion gap around the perimeter of the room. Use spacers to maintain a consistent gap of approximately 1/4 inch.

6. Cutting and Fitting

You may encounter areas where you need to cut the planks to fit. Use a circular saw or jigsaw with a fine-tooth blade to make precise cuts. For tight fits, use a pull bar to gently pull the planks together.

7. Transitioning

If you're installing the flooring in multiple rooms or connecting it to other flooring types, use transition strips. These strips cover the gap between different surfaces and create a seamless transition.

8. Final Touches

Once the flooring is installed, remove the spacers and install baseboards to conceal the expansion gap and give the room a finished look. Vacuum the floor and add furniture to complete the installation.

By following these essential aspects, you can ensure a successful Select Surfaces Driftwood Laminate Flooring installation that enhances the beauty and functionality of your home for years to come.