How Do You Fit Laminate Flooring Around A Toilet Bowl

How Do You Fit Laminate Flooring Around A Toilet Bowl?

Installing laminate flooring is a popular DIY project, offering a stylish and durable flooring option for many rooms. However, navigating obstacles like toilet bowls can pose a challenge, especially for beginners. Properly installing laminate flooring around a toilet bowl requires careful planning, precise cuts, and the right tools. This article provides a step-by-step guide to help you successfully install laminate flooring around this common bathroom fixture.

1. Preparing for the Installation

Before beginning the installation, ensure you have the necessary tools and materials. These include a tape measure, a circular saw or jigsaw, a utility knife, a pencil, a hammer, a flooring underlayment, a rubber mallet, and spacers. Also, ensure the toilet bowl is secured and the floor beneath it is clean and dry.

Next, carefully measure the area around the toilet bowl, taking into account the base and any curves or angles. Measure the distance from the wall to the toilet bowl on each side, ensuring to note any differences in the measurement. Additionally, measure the distance from the front of the toilet bowl to the wall, making sure to account for the toilet bowl's shape.

Once the measurements are complete, create a template for your laminate flooring pieces. You can use cardboard or a similar material to create a template that accurately matches the shape of the toilet bowl. Create two separate templates – one for the front of the bowl and one for the back.

2. Cutting the Laminate Flooring

With your templates in hand, you can begin cutting the laminate flooring. Use your saw to make cuts in the laminate flooring strips according to the template. Carefully mark your laminate pieces with a pencil, ensuring to be precise. Utilize the circular saw for straight cuts and the jigsaw for more intricate cuts around the toilet bowl base.

When cutting laminate flooring, strive for precise cuts. A small error can lead to a gap around the toilet bowl, impacting the flooring's look and functionality. Remember to use the saw's guide to create straight cuts and avoid applying excessive pressure that could damage the flooring.

3. Installing the Laminate Flooring

Begin the installation process by laying the underlayment around the toilet bowl. This layer provides cushioning and soundproofing, ensuring a smooth and comfortable floor. Be sure to cut the underlayment to match the shape of the area around the bowl, leaving no unwanted gaps beneath the laminate flooring.

Once the underlayment is installed, position the first laminate piece in the corner of the room. Ensure the groove is facing the wall and the tongue is facing the center of the room. Place the next piece alongside the first, aligning the tongues and grooves. Tap them together using the rubber mallet.

Proceed with the installation, working your way toward the toilet bowl. Remember to leave a slight gap between the flooring and the wall, as the laminate flooring expands and contracts with changes in temperature. Use spacers to maintain this gap. When you reach the toilet bowl, insert the pre-cut laminate pieces, aligning the edges. Use a rubber mallet to tap the pieces into place, ensuring a snug fit around the toilet bowl.

4. Finishing Touches

After installing the laminate flooring around the toilet bowl, complete the installation process. Remember to check for any misalignment or gaps, correcting these issues before moving forward. Next, install the baseboards around the toilet bowl, ensuring they are carefully aligned.

Once the baseboards are installed, apply a sealant around the toilet bowl to protect the laminate flooring from water damage. Caulking the areas around the toilet will prevent water from seeping underneath the laminate flooring and causing damage.

By following these steps, you can successfully install laminate flooring around a toilet bowl.