Laying laminate flooring can be challenging for a beginner. This can cause you to make a few mistakes or miss out on some steps, affecting the appearance of your floor.

There are seven common mistakes that many DIYers make when installing laminate flooring. Whether you're new to home improvement or you’ve dabbled in the hobby, avoiding these mistakes is key to achieving that flawless finish.

Stick with us as we walk through the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Skipping the Subfloor Preparation

If you fail to prepare your subfloor, you run the risk of uneven surfaces, gaps, and unstable floors.

Any debris or dirt left over from the previous floor can prevent the laminate from laying flat and adhering to the underlay.

To avoid this, do the following:

Remove all debris and dust from the subfloor.
Check for dips or high spots with a spirit level, and smoothen the surface with a self-levelling compound.
Apply a damp-proof membrane when installing laminate over concrete to prevent water damage.

2. Ignoring Acclimatisation

Before you install laminate flooring, it needs to be left to acclimate to the room’s temperature.

If it’s installed before it has time to acclimate, the floor may expand or contract after being installed, leading to gaps, warping, and buckling.

To avoid this, do the following:

Leave the laminate in the room for at least 48 to 72 hours to allow it to acclimate.
Keep the boxes flat on the floor to prevent bending or warping while they acclimate.

3. Neglecting Expansion Gaps

Laminate flooring is a "floating" floor, meaning it’s not glued or nailed down to the subfloor.

Without proper expansion gaps, the natural movement of this installation can cause the floor to press against the walls. This can lead to buckling, warping, cupping, and gaps, damaging the integrity of your floor.

Ensure the following to avoid this:

Use spacers during installation to ensure a 10-12mm gap between the planks' edges and the wall.
Leave any gaps around obstacles, like pipes, kitchen islands, and doors, to allow for movement.

4. Using the Wrong Underlay

The underlay acts as cushioning, thermal insulation, and a moisture barrier.

Using the wrong underlay can result in mould growth, swelling, and poor noise insulation. If you install an underlay that is too soft or too thick for your flooring, you will experience too much movement underfoot, which can lead to cracks or gaps.

Follow these tips to avoid this:

Research which underlay is best suited for your floor.
Opt for more durable subfloors for high-traffic areas and sound-proofing subfloors for bedrooms and living rooms.
Choose high-quality materials, such as foam for good performance or rubber for superior sound and moisture insulation.

5. Poor Staggering of Joints

Staggering laminate flooring is essential to enhancing its strength and reducing the risk of shifting or lifting.

Poor staggering can lead to weak joints, where the ends of the planks are more likely to shift or lift. These weak points can lead to gaps, creaks, or damage to the locking mechanisms.

To achieve a successful installation, read more on staggering your laminate here.

Adhere to the following to achieve a professional installation:

Don’t stagger the joints too closely (less than 6 to 12 inches), as this can compromise the floor's stability.
Stagger the planks correctly to avoid repeating patterns. Cut each new row of planks at different lengths for a natural look.

6. Not Sealing the Floor

Forgetting to seal your laminate flooring can result in water damage, especially in areas where spills are more likely.

Without proper sealing, dirt and moisture can easily get trapped in the gaps between the planks. This can make it more difficult to clean, increasing the risk of long-term damage.

Furthermore, if the edges and seams are not sealed, the expansion and contraction of the planks can lead to gaps forming between them.

To avoid this, complete the following:

Use a high-quality sealant, such as silicone caulk, that’s designed for laminate flooring.
Seal all gaps around the perimeter of the room. This includes the space between the flooring and the walls, under skirting boards, and around doorframes.

Choose Beesley and Fildes for Laminate Flooring

Are you ready to install your new floors like a pro? If so, Beesley and Fildes can help you achieve a flawless finish with our laminate flooring.

With a range of colours and designs to choose from, you can find the perfect match for your home.

At affordable prices, you can invest in quality without sacrificing your wallet.