For over a century, Paulson’s Floor Coverings has been dedicated to helping homeowners in Portland, OR, and Vancouver, WA, find the ideal flooring solutions. While laminate flooring is a fantastic choice for its durability, affordability, and style, installation errors can lead to disappointing results and costly repairs. We’re here to share expert tips on avoiding common mistakes, ensuring your laminate floor is installed to perfection.
1. Skipping the Acclimation Process
One of the most common mistakes we see is rushing the installation process by skipping acclimation. Laminate flooring expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity, so letting it sit in the installation room for 48 hours is crucial. At Paulson's Floor Coverings, we recommend giving the planks time to adjust to the room’s conditions to prevent warping and gaps later on.
Solution:
Bring the unopened boxes into the room where you plan to install them and leave them for at least 48 hours. This helps the boards adjust, setting the foundation for a smooth installation.
2. Ignoring the Importance of a Level Subfloor
Installing laminate on an uneven subfloor can lead to visible imperfections and even damage over time. A common mistake is assuming the subfloor is level when even minor variations can cause issues.
Solution:
Before laying the laminate, thoroughly inspect and prepare the subfloor. Use a leveling compound if necessary, and always ensure it’s dry and free of debris. Our team at Paulson’s Floor Coverings can help you assess your subfloor and recommend the best leveling solutions to avoid this costly pitfall.
3. Overlooking Underlayment Needs
Underlayment is essential for laminate flooring, offering cushioning, moisture protection, and sound reduction. Skipping or using inadequate underlayment can compromise the longevity and comfort of your floor.
Solution:
Choose a quality underlayment suited to your laminate type and installation environment. We carry a range of underlayment options at Paulson’s Floor Coverings, from moisture-resistant barriers to soundproofing solutions.
4. Failing to Leave Expansion Gaps
Laminate expands with humidity changes, making expansion gaps critical to prevent buckling. Failing to leave adequate space along walls, doorways, and other immovable structures is a common mistake that can lead to costly repairs.
Solution:
Follow manufacturer guidelines and leave a ¼-inch gap around the perimeter of the room. Use spacers to ensure consistency. Expansion gaps may seem small, but they are vital in keeping your floor secure and looking great for years.
5. Using the Wrong Tools
Laminate flooring requires specific tools for a clean and accurate installation. Many DIY installers make the mistake of using improper or dull tools, resulting in chipped planks and uneven edges.
Solution:
Invest in a quality laminate flooring installation kit, including a tapping block, pull bar, and spacers. Paulson’s Floor Coverings team members are happy to provide guidance on tool selection to help you achieve professional-grade results.
6. Forgetting to Stagger Planks
Laminate flooring is designed to look like natural wood, and staggering planks enhances this look while adding stability. Failing to stagger planks can make the floor look artificial and lead to weak spots that are more prone to damage.
Solution:
Follow a staggered pattern, with plank seams offset by at least 6 inches. This technique improves both the visual appeal and durability of your floor, ensuring a beautiful finish.
7. Not Accounting for Room Transitions
Ignoring transitions between rooms can lead to disjointed floors and uneven surfaces. Each room may have different temperature and humidity levels, causing issues if the laminate isn’t separated properly.
Solution:
Use transition moldings to separate rooms and flooring types. Paulson’s Floor Coverings offers a variety of stylish transition strips that will keep your floors secure and visually cohesive.
8. Rushing Through the Installation
Laminate flooring installation can be a rewarding project, but rushing through it often leads to errors that compromise the final look and durability. Slowing down and paying attention to each step is key.
Solution:
Take your time, double-check measurements, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely. Our team at Paulson’s Floor Coverings is available to answer any questions during your project, ensuring you avoid mistakes and create a stunning, long-lasting floor.
Trust Paulson’s Floor Coverings for Your Laminate Flooring Needs
With over 100 years of experience, Paulson’s Floor Coverings in Portland, OR, and Vancouver, WA, has been a trusted source for quality flooring and expert advice. Our knowledgeable team is here to support you at every stage of your laminate flooring project, from selecting the perfect underlayment to guiding you through proper installation techniques.
Stop by one of our showrooms or contact us today for professional assistance with your flooring project. Let us help you make your DIY installation a success, creating a beautiful, resilient floor that adds value and style to your home for years to come.
