Special Requirements with a Laminate Flooring Installation

Laminate flooring is durable. It’s known for its longevity and attractive look. The only way for your laminate flooring to uphold this strong reputation is with the proper installation.

There are special requirements for laminate flooring. Without following these special requirements, you risk damaging your floors. Before you begin your installation, it is crucial that you read through these special requirements and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for each situation.

Here are some of the most important factors you must take into consideration when preparing for your installation.

Acclimatization

Before you lay a single plank, you must help your floor get used to its new home. Acclimatizing your floors is a vital step in your project. Most laminates require 24-48 hours of acclimatization in your home. Always follow the manufacturers suggestions.

Climate Control

Once your flooring is in it’s new home, you’ll need to maintain a stable climate. This means having minimal moisture and a well-maintained climate. Most homes and buildings have this already with HVAC systems. If yours does not have climate control, or if you’re not sure, you’ll want to double check that your space meets all of the necessary requirements.

Installing on Stairs

Steps pose a unique challenge for any type of flooring. Laminate is no different.

Angle-Angle Installation

Manufacturers like Kronopol and Kronoswiss manufacturer laminates that do not require a tapping block. Angle-Angle installation is one of the easiest forms of installation that saves time and waste. Angle-angle laminate installation is done by assembling one row at a time, and clicking planks into the previous row length-wise, much like using a zipper.

Moisture Prone Area Installation

Laminate flooring is not waterproof, but it can still be used in areas that see moisture, such as the kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room. We recommend using a vapor barrier underlayment combined with sealing the edges of the flooring with a waterproof sealant. This will protect your flooring from moisture both at the subfloor and surface level.

Commercial Installation

Commercial properties see more foot traffic than residential areas. This means that the type of flooring installed must be stronger and more durable. Check out these tips on how to find the right type of laminate flooring for a commercial installation so you can be sure your floors last for the long-haul.

Expansion and Contraction

When laminate flooring expands or contracts, it causes the floors to buckle or cause gaps. Find out how you can protect your floors from expansion and what to do if it happens to your flooring.

Radiant Heat

Do you love the feel of warm flooring when you step out of bed each morning? You might be able to keep that same feeling with your laminate floors.

Heavy Objects

Even though laminate is durable, furniture and other heavy objects could cause your flooring to dent or damage. Find out how to prevent this from happening with tips on special care with heavy objects.

Don’t risk your floors getting damaged by not taking extra precautions. Read further about each of these tips and special requirements to give your flooring the longest life possible.

Still not clear on something? We’re here to help. Contact our team for fast answers to your flooring questions.