Are you getting ready for a laminate flooring installation? That's a smart move. Laminate is durable, stylish, and cost-effective. But before your new floors can shine, a little prep work goes a long way. Whether you're tackling the job yourself or hiring a local installer, the smoother the prep, the smoother the installation. Here’s what you should do before the first plank hits the floor.
Clear the room completely
First things first, the space needs to be empty. That means removing all furniture, rugs, and decor. If you’re installing laminate flooring throughout multiple rooms, plan out what will go where and when. Make sure there’s a safe place to store your items—somewhere clean, dry, and out of the way.
Don't forget about baseboards and trim. In most cases, those will need to come off to make room for expansion gaps. Labeling them as you remove them can save you some headaches when it's time to reinstall.
Check the subfloor condition
Laminate flooring needs a solid, flat base. That’s where your subfloor comes in. Whether it's concrete or plywood, it must be level, clean, and dry. Use a long level to find any dips or high spots. If you find bumps or uneven areas, now’s the time to sand or fill them.
Also, moisture is laminate's worst enemy. Test for moisture, especially on concrete subfloors. A simple moisture meter or a plastic sheet test can help you avoid future issues like warping or buckling.
Make sure your home is climate-ready
Las Vegas is known for its dry desert heat, which can affect flooring materials. Laminate planks need time to acclimate to your home’s temperature and humidity. Unbox them and let them sit flat in the room where they’ll be installed for at least 48 hours. This helps prevent expansion or contraction after the laminate flooring installation.
Think ahead about transitions and thresholds
If your laminate will connect to other flooring types—tile, carpet, or vinyl—you’ll need transition strips. It’s a good idea to measure and plan for those now. Also, consider the height difference. If the new flooring sits higher or lower than what you had before, doors may need trimming, and threshold solutions might be necessary.
Secure pets and prep your schedule
A laminate flooring installation can get noisy and dusty. Make arrangements for pets to be safely out of the way. If you’re having pros handle the installation, give them full access to the work area and be ready to answer questions. Have a flexible schedule for the day, as sometimes, the job takes longer than expected, especially if surprises pop up under the old floors.
Your experts on laminate flooring in Las Vegas, NV, and Lake Havasu City, AZ
At Beno's Flooring, we offer premium laminate flooring and installation services. From product selection to professional installation, we’re here to make sure your experience is smooth and stress-free. We’ll help you prep, plan, and install floors you’ll love for years. Our flooring stores in Las Vegas, NV, and Lake Havasu City, AZ, serve North Las Vegas, Henderson, Las Vegas, Summerlin, NV, and Lake Havasu, AZ.
