The following flooring installation tips are designed to help homeowners successfully complete their DIY renovation projects. At Laminate Warehouse, we understand how important proper installation is for providing your home with long-lasting, durable flooring. That is why we offer a wide range of installation services and flooring options to help you get the job done right.
1. Determine if the Room is Square
Before beginning your installation, it is important to review the overall layout of the area to assess the best place to begin. Rooms can not only be narrower at one end than at the other, but walls can also be out of square which could affect the finished look of the room. By planning your flooring installation ahead of time, you can help to eliminate possible issues that may be difficult or even impossible to change once the project is complete.
2. Start with a Proper Sub-floor
Any flooring installation should begin with a sub-floor that is prepared properly for the type of flooring product being installed. If possible, it is always best to remove the existing flooring in order to properly evaluate the condition of the sub-floor. Whether you are installing flooring onto a concrete or wood sub-floor you should ideally start with a surface that is solid, flat, level and dry. You can use a concrete grinder to grind down high spots or humps in a concrete sub-floor or use a sander or planer to eliminate the same issues with a wood sub-floor. Sub-floors that have low spots or dips can be levelled with a good quality levelling compound. Capable consumers should be able to handle minor sub-floor deficiencies and major levelling issues can be addressed by a professional installer. Contact Laminate Warehouse for more information on the installation services we offer.
3. Understand the Limitations of Your New Floor
It goes without saying that each type of flooring has its own merits and also has its own installation requirements, so it is important to review the manufacturers guidelines before beginning the installation. In regard to sub-floor preparation for example, carpet may be more forgiving than other products because the cushion underlay can absorb and cover up minor issues. Similarly, when you are installing a floating floor, such as laminate or glue together engineered, a good quality underlay can help to hide minor sub-floor deficiencies. Pliable vinyl products require more attention to sub-floor preparation as the product will bend and conform into any minor dips in the sub-floor and installing over any humps or high spots will likely be quite noticeable once installed. Hardwood and engineered flooring that is to be nailed down or glued down to the sub-floor may have unique installation requirements specified by the manufacturer guidelines which should be reviewed prior to installation. It is also important to review the manufacturers installation instructions in order to follow the requirements for allowable expansion and contraction of the specific floor being installed. If you require more information regarding your flooring installation please contact a Laminate Warehouse location near you.
