Gluing Laminate Flooring Joints

Gluing Laminate Flooring Joints: An Essential Guide for a Durable Installation

Laminate flooring is a popular choice for homes and businesses alike due to its durability, ease of installation, and affordability. While most laminate flooring can be installed using a click-lock system, some situations, such as repairing damaged areas or installing around obstacles, may require gluing the joints. Proper gluing techniques are crucial for ensuring a strong and long-lasting installation.

Choosing the Right Adhesive

The first step is to select the appropriate adhesive for your specific laminate flooring. Look for a product that is specifically designed for laminate flooring and provides a strong, waterproof bond. Some common types of adhesives used for laminate flooring include:

Pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs)
Polyvinyl acetate (PVA) glues
Cyanoacrylate (super) glues

Surface Preparation

Before applying adhesive, ensure that the laminate flooring surfaces to be joined are clean, dry, and free of any dirt or debris. Sweep or vacuum the floor thoroughly and remove any existing glue residue. For optimum adhesion, you may also lightly sand the edges of the planks to create a rougher surface.

Applying the Adhesive

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the adhesive. Typically, you will apply a thin, even layer of adhesive to one edge of the plank, being careful not to get any adhesive on the surface of the planks. Align the planks and press them together firmly, ensuring they are level. Use a tapping block or a hammer and a scrap piece of wood to avoid damaging the laminate flooring.

Clamping and Drying

To ensure a secure bond, use clamps or weights to hold the planks together while the adhesive dries. The drying time will vary depending on the type of adhesive used and the ambient temperature. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific drying times. Ensure the clamps are applied evenly and carefully to avoid damaging the planks.

Cleaning Up Excess Adhesive

Once the adhesive has dried, remove any excess that may have seeped out of the joints. Use a damp cloth or a plastic scraper to gently wipe away the excess adhesive. Be careful not to scratch or gouge the laminate flooring surface. Allow the flooring to cure completely before walking on it or placing furniture on it.

By following these steps and using the appropriate materials and techniques, you can ensure that your laminate flooring joints are properly glued and create a durable and long-lasting installation.