If you’re considering laminate flooring for your home, you’re on the right track. It’s durable, stylish, and offers a high-end look for a fraction of the cost of hardwood. At Floorama, we’ve seen the transformative impact laminate flooring can have in homes across Rochester Hills, Rochester, Washington, Oakland Charter Township, and Troy, MI. However, achieving professional results depends on avoiding common installation mistakes. Here's a guide from our experts to help you sidestep these common pitfalls and enjoy a flawless finish.
Preparing for Installation: Don’t Skip the Basics
1. Failing to Acclimate Your Flooring
Laminate is a versatile material, but like all flooring, it can expand or contract based on the environment. One key step often overlooked by DIY installers is acclimating the laminate planks to the room temperature and humidity. Let your laminate planks sit in the installation space for at least 48 hours before starting. This allows them to adjust, minimizing the risk of gaps or buckling down the road.
2. Ignoring Moisture Levels
Laminate is durable, but it’s sensitive to moisture. Excessive moisture from concrete subfloors or basement humidity can ruin laminate flooring quickly. A moisture barrier, or underlayment with built-in moisture protection, can shield the planks from potential damage. Floorama stocks various moisture-resistant underlayments to ensure your installation stands the test of time.
Proper Subfloor Preparation: A Critical Foundation
3. Neglecting a Smooth Subfloor
Laying laminate over uneven surfaces will lead to issues like squeaking, cracking, or separating over time. Before installing, ensure your subfloor is smooth, clean, and dry. If it has bumps, fill them in; if it’s rough, sand it down. A solid foundation is critical for a secure, durable laminate floor.
4. Overlooking Underlayment Requirements
Underlayment not only provides comfort but also helps with sound absorption and moisture resistance. Skipping this layer can result in noisy, uncomfortable floors. Floorama offers a variety of underlayments tailored to suit specific needs and budgets. Our team can guide you on the right choice for your space, ensuring a flawless final product.
During Installation: Precision Matters
5. Not Leaving Expansion Gaps
One of the most common installation mistakes is failing to leave adequate expansion gaps. Laminate needs a little breathing room around the edges to account for temperature and humidity changes. Without this gap, the floor can buckle or warp over time. Experts recommend leaving a gap of 1/4 inch around all walls and obstacles. Floorama’s installation team emphasizes this critical detail in every project to prevent future problems.
6. Forgetting to Stagger Planks
To achieve a natural, professional look, laminate planks should be staggered. Laying them in a repetitive pattern can result in a uniform look that’s less appealing. Staggering not only looks better but also enhances the structural integrity of the floor. At Floorama, our installers follow a precise staggered pattern that maximizes both style and strength.
7. Cutting Corners (Literally!)
In any room, you’ll encounter obstacles like door frames and heating vents. Rather than attempting shortcuts, take your time with accurate cuts and measurements to fit the laminate precisely. Using appropriate tools to trim around these areas ensures a polished, professional result. Floorama’s experienced team in Rochester Hills can recommend the right tools to help DIYers achieve a seamless finish.
Final Touches: Attention to Detail
8. Not Sealing in High-Moisture Areas
Although laminate is water-resistant, it’s not entirely waterproof. For areas prone to moisture—like kitchens or near entryways—consider using a sealant in the expansion gaps. This small step can add extra protection and prolong the life of your laminate. Floorama’s experts can recommend sealant products designed to complement your new floor.
9. Ignoring Proper Cleanup
Post-installation cleanup is often overlooked, but it’s essential for longevity. Sweeping and vacuuming your laminate after installation helps to remove any dust or debris that might scratch the surface. Additionally, avoid using water on the floor immediately after installation, as some adhesives or sealants might need time to set.
Rely on Floorama for a Flawless Laminate Installation
Avoiding these common mistakes will go a long way in achieving a beautiful and long-lasting laminate floor. At Floorama, we’re proud to support homeowners across Rochester Hills, Rochester, Washington, Oakland Charter Township, and Troy, MI, with expert advice and top-quality products. Whether you need materials, tools, or just a few expert tips, our showroom in Rochester Hills has everything you need for a successful installation.
