Installing Laminate Flooring Over Hardwood Floors

Installing Laminate Flooring Over Hardwood Floors: A Step-by-Step Guide

Laminate flooring is a popular choice for homeowners looking for a durable and affordable flooring option. It is also relatively easy to install, even over existing hardwood floors. By following these steps, you can install laminate flooring over hardwood floors yourself in a weekend.

Before you begin, you will need to gather the following materials:

Laminate flooring
Underlayment
Moisture barrier
Tapping block
Pull bar
Circular saw
Tape measure
Pencil

Once you have all of your materials, you can begin the installation process:

Prepare the subfloor. The first step is to prepare the subfloor by removing any existing flooring, baseboards, and quarter-round. You will also need to level the subfloor if it is not already level.
Install the underlayment. The underlayment will help to cushion the laminate flooring and reduce noise. Roll out the underlayment over the subfloor and tape the seams together.
Install the moisture barrier. The moisture barrier will help to protect the laminate flooring from moisture damage. Roll out the moisture barrier over the underlayment and tape the seams together.
Start installing the laminate flooring. Start by laying out the first row of laminate flooring along one wall. Tap the planks together using a tapping block. Continue laying out the laminate flooring, row by row, until you reach the other wall.
Cut the laminate flooring to fit. You will need to cut the laminate flooring to fit around obstacles such as doorways and closets. Use a circular saw to cut the laminate flooring. Be sure to wear safety glasses when using a circular saw.
Install the baseboards. Once you have installed the laminate flooring, you can install the baseboards. The baseboards will help to hide the expansion gap between the laminate flooring and the wall.

By following these steps, you can install laminate flooring over hardwood floors yourself in a weekend. Laminate flooring is a durable and affordable flooring option that can add beauty and value to your home.