Do:
- Let the floor acclimate to room temperature for at least 24 hours
- Be sure to read the instructions provided, as different laminates may require different techniques
- Make sure the subfloor is level and in good repair; clear all loose debris and dirt before laying the foam underlayment
- Tape together the seams of your underlayment as you are laying it.
- Stagger rows one plank width from each other
- Always leave 1/4'" gap (about 7mm) around the perimeter of the floor, and around any stationary objects such as pipes, columns, built in cabinets, etc.
- Use a plastic vapor barrier over all concrete floors, ceramic tile (if it is over concrete), and all heated floors
- Always start installation with the tongue side facing the wall
- Use a tapping block to help tighten joints-but be sure not to over hammer or you will damage the grooves
Don't:
- Install laminate on any floor with a drain
- Continue laminate through doorways under 48"-use a transition
- Nail any base molding or quarter round to the floor- always fix to the wall with room underneath for the floor to expand and contract
- Install over carpet, unless it is low pile commercial carpet or Berber
- If you do install over these types of carpet, don't use an underlayment. Too much cushion underneath will cause planks to seperate
- Run your laminate floor lengthwise over 30 feet- a transition strip must be used to continue
- Cut into the back of the laminate, as this will cause chipping in the decorative top layer. Always be sure to cut into this layer.
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