Installing Laminate Flooring

A beginner-friendly guide to install laminate flooring that looks great and lasts.

Tools & Materials

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep the Subfloor
    Clean, dry, and level the surface. Remove all debris, staples, or nails
  2. Lay a Moisture Barrier (if needed)
    Essential over concrete. Lay it flat across the entire room.
  3. Install Underlayment
    Roll out the underlayment and trim edges as needed. Tape seams if required.
  4. Plan the Layout
    Measure the room and decide where to start. Use a chalk line if needed.
  5. Start Installing Planks
    Place spacers along the wall. Click planks together, tapping them gently into place with the tapping block.
  6. Stagger Seams
    Cut the first plank of every new row to stagger seams by at least 6 inches.
  7. Trim Around Obstacles
    Use a jigsaw to cut planks around vents, corners, or door frames
  8. Install Final Row
    Measure and cut to fit. Use the pull bar to tap planks into place securely.
  9. Add Trim and Finish
    Remove spacers and install baseboards or quarter-round to cover gaps.

Pro Tips

Let planks acclimate for 48 hours in the room to prevent warping.

Always use spacers to leave a 1/4” expansion gap around all walls.

Mix planks from different boxes to blend color and grain variations naturally.

Use a tapping block and pull bar to protect edges while fitting planks snugly.

Sweep as you go to avoid debris getting under the flooring.

Give Your Room the Full Makeover

New floors are a great start — now bring the rest of your space up to speed. Try jour Painting Guide for crisp, clean walls or upgrade your cabinet with our Revamp Guide.

Ready to Upgrade More Rooms?

Installing laminate flooring is just the start. Explore more beginner-friendly guides and start transforming your home one project at a time.

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Pro-Approved Flooring Tools

These are our go-to tools for laminate installs — durable, easy to use, and beginner-friendly.

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