Best Way To Lay Laminate Flooring On Concrete

Best Way to Lay Laminate Flooring on Concrete

Installing laminate flooring on concrete is a popular and budget-friendly option for homeowners looking to upgrade their floors. While the process may seem daunting, it's relatively straightforward when following the appropriate steps. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you achieve a professional-looking and long-lasting result.

### Materials You'll Need: * Laminate flooring * Underlayment * Concrete screws or nails * Circular saw or miter saw * Spacers * Tap block and pull bar * Hammer or nail gun ### Surface Preparation: * Ensure the concrete subfloor is clean, dry, and level. * Remove any existing flooring, baseboards, or moldings. * Repair any cracks or uneven areas with concrete patching compound. * Install a moisture barrier, such as polyethylene sheeting, to prevent moisture from rising from the concrete. ### Installing the Underlayment: * Roll out the underlayment over the concrete subfloor, starting from the corner of the room. * Overlap the seams by 6 inches and tape them together. * Trim the excess underlayment along the walls and around any obstacles. ### Laying the Laminate Flooring: * Begin laying the laminate flooring in the corner of the room where the underlayment is installed. * Align the planks parallel to the longest wall. * Tap the planks together tightly using a tap block and pull bar. * Use spacers at the wall to maintain a uniform gap. * Stagger the end joints of the planks for a more natural look. ### Cutting and Fitting: * Use a circular saw or miter saw to cut the planks to length. * Measure and mark the cuts carefully to ensure a precise fit. * For complicated cuts around obstacles, use a jigsaw or hole saw. * Trim the planks around door jambs and baseboards as necessary. ### Securing the Flooring: * Pre-drill holes into the concrete subfloor along the perimeter of the room. * Insert the appropriate concrete screws or nails into the holes and tap them into place. * Avoid over-tightening the screws as this can damage the laminate. ### Finishing Touches: * Install baseboards or moldings to hide the expansion gap and enhance the finished look. * Trim the excess flooring around the baseboards and door jambs. * Use caulk to seal any gaps between the flooring, baseboards, and walls. ### Maintenance and Care: * Sweep or vacuum the flooring regularly to keep it clean. * Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. * Wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining or damage. * Place rugs or mats in high-traffic areas to protect the flooring from scratches or wear.