How to install laminate flooring

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How to Install Laminate Flooring
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Install laminate flooring in your home with these
simple instructions.
Step 1
Remove Tongue
Inspect each plank before beginning
installation. For the first row along straight
walls, remove the tongue on all long side joints
and the short side of the first plank using a
table saw.
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Step 2
Trace and Cut
For uneven walls, trace contour with a compass on
the tongue side of the plank, and cut with a
jigsaw.
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Step 3
Assemble First Row
Assemble the first row with tongue side way from
the wall. Insert the end tongue into the end
groove and rotate downward to assemble. Keep
planks aligned and joints closed.
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Step 4
Provide Space for Expansion
Provide a 3/8 space for expansion on all sides
using wooden spacers. Note Two spacers,
thick-side to thick-side, are 3/8.
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Step 5
Cut for New Rows
Cut the first piece at least 8 long using a
table saw. Start new rows using pieces trimmed
from the previous row, ensuring at least a 12
end joint offset.
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Step 6
Assemble Second Row
Insert the tongue of the second-row plank into
the groove of the first-row plank at a slight
angle until the laminate edges meet. Next, rotate
down until the joints lock (Image 1). For the
next plank, join the short end of the plank first
(Image 2). You will see a gap on the long-side
joints when the plank is rotated down. Raise the
outside edge of the plank upward approximately
1. Keep this angle as you push the plank in
until the laminate edges meet. Rotate downward on
the plank until the joint locks (Image 3). Repeat
previous steps to complete installation.
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Step 7
Try This Alternative Method
Align tongues into the grooves of the long and
short sides of the planks. Install the long side
first by placing a tapping block no closer than
8 from either end. Tap lightly along the long
side until the joint is closed tightly (Image 1).
Next, tap the end using the tapping block into a
locked position (Image 2).
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Step 8
Check for Gap
Use a tape measure to ensure there is a 3/8 gap
(after the joint is closed) from the wall to
allow for expansion.
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Step 9
Install Last Row
Align the plank you'll connect to the second to
last row. Using a full-width plank as a spacer,
trace the contour of the wall, and cut the plank
to size. Install the long side tongue into the
groove with the end joint aligned. Work evenly
along the length of the plank, and lightly tap
the joint closed using a pull bar and rubber
mallet. After tapping the long side joint closed,
tap the short side closed using a tapping block
or pull bar. Remove all spacers.
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Step 10
Apply Sealant
Apply a flexible, 100-percent silicone sealant to
the entire perimeter to create a watertight seal.
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RESOURCES
bestbuyflooringcenter.com
DIY NETWORK