What is Laminate Flooring?
Laminate flooring is a very popular choice throughout the home as it replicates the look of real wood, while being a fraction of the cost. It is made up of a photographic applique layer which imitates solid wood. This is placed under a clear protective layer which allows durability.
This wood effect laminate allows your floor to be more water resistant than solid wood, so you needn’t worry about the occasional spill. If the worst should happen and your flooring does undergo extensive damage, this quality laminate floor is affordable and easy to replace. It comes in a variety of shades too from light oak laminate flooring to darker tones.
Do I Need Underlay for Laminate?
Underlay is an extra layer which goes between your laminate and the subfloor of the house. This is recommended when installing these floors as it will prevent vapour from reaching the laminate wood. It will also help soundproof the room and add a little extra warmth.
Read our Underlay Flooring Guide for more information.
How to Lay Laminate Floor
Installing this type of flooring is very easy to do yourself. All you will need is your pack of laminate floor, your chosen underlay, scissors, tape, a hammer, nails and beading to go around the edges of the room.
Once your subfloor is clean and dry, start by laying the underlay. Simply place the sheets side by side and tape together. Trim any excess underlay down and then tape at the seams until you have covered the floor.
After this, start laying your laminate floor from the left-hand corner of the room. Leave an 8-10mm gap around the perimeter of the room to allow for expansion and your beading. Due to the simple clicking system of the flooring, no glue is required, all you have to do is click each plank into place. Once finished, install your beading over the expansion gaps and fix in position with a hammer and nails.
Read more about installing your flooring here: How to Install Laminate Floors. Alternatively, the video tutorial below will give you a look at a typical installation process for flooring of this type:
Please browse out range of high quality, yet cheap laminate floor. If you are unsure which is the best laminate flooring for you, please don’t hesitate to give us a call on 0330 100 00 15. You can order up to two free laminate flooring samples to test in your home which are sent out by First Class Royal Mail. We also have a variety of guides within our Laminate Floor Advice Centre should you need any more help.