How To Lay Laminate Flooring Over Hardwood

Many of us who prefer hardwood floors may wonder if we can install laminate flooring over pre-existing hardwood flooring. Doing so is convenient when you want to update the look of your living space on a budget without removing the hardwood flooring.

Laying laminate flooring over hardwood can also provide some added benefits, such as increased durability, moisture resistance, and easier maintenance. If you're considering installing laminate flooring over hardwood, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Check the condition of your hardwood floor

Before you start installing laminate flooring, it's important to check the condition of your hardwood floor. Make sure it's level, smooth, and free of any major cracks or gaps. If there are any problems with the hardwood floor, you'll need to repair them before you can install the laminate flooring.

2. Choose the right type of laminate flooring

Not all laminate flooring is created equal. Some types of laminate flooring are more durable than others, and some are more resistant to moisture. When choosing a laminate flooring, be sure to consider the amount of traffic the floor will receive and the amount of moisture it will be exposed to.

3. Install an underlayment

An underlayment is a thin layer of material that is installed between the hardwood floor and the laminate flooring. The underlayment helps to cushion the laminate flooring and reduce noise. It can also help to prevent moisture from seeping up into the laminate flooring.

4. Start in the center of the room

When installing laminate flooring, it's best to start in the center of the room and work your way out. This will help to ensure that the laminate flooring is installed evenly and that there are no gaps between the planks.

5. Use a tapping block and hammer

A tapping block and hammer are used to tap the laminate flooring planks into place. Be sure to tap the planks gently so that you don't damage them. You may also want to use a rubber mallet to avoid damaging the laminate flooring.

6. Trim the excess laminate flooring

Once you've installed the laminate flooring, you'll need to trim the excess flooring around the edges of the room. You can use a utility knife or a circular saw to do this.

7. Install baseboards and moldings

Baseboards and moldings help to finish off the look of the laminate flooring. They also help to hide any gaps between the laminate flooring and the walls.