One of the most common flooring options for homeowners looking to update their living area is laminate flooring laid over concrete. Most do-it-yourselfers can complete this project if they put in some advance planning and pay close attention to detail. By taking a methodical approach, you can accomplish a polished finish without having to pay the exorbitant fees associated with hiring contractors.
Preparing the concrete base is the first and most important step in this process. An easy installation depends on your concrete floor being level, clean, and dry. Take your time with this step because any flaws or moisture problems could cause problems later.
The next step after preparing the base is to comprehend the technology involved in installing laminate flooring. This include measuring, cutting, and correctly fitting the laminate pieces together, as well as choosing the appropriate underlayment. Although each step needs to be precise, you can learn the technique with the correct assistance.
This post will guide you through every step of the procedure, from prepping your concrete floor to installing the last laminate sheet. You’ll be able to easily and confidently transform your space if you adhere to these simple and straightforward instructions.
| Step | Description |
| 1. Clean the Concrete | Sweep and vacuum the concrete floor to remove any dust and debris. |
| 2. Level the Surface | Check for any uneven spots and use a leveling compound if necessary. |
| 3. Install Underlayment | Lay down a moisture barrier and underlayment to protect the laminate and reduce noise. |
| 4. Plan the Layout | Measure the room and plan the layout of the laminate planks. |
| 5. Start Laying Laminate | Begin laying the planks from one corner, ensuring they click together securely. |
| 6. Stagger the Joints | Ensure the end joints of adjacent rows are staggered for a natural look. |
| 7. Cut to Fit | Cut the last planks of each row to fit, leaving a small gap for expansion. |
| 8. Install the Final Row | Cut and fit the final row, using a pull bar to lock the planks in place. |
| 9. Add Finishing Touches | Install baseboards and trim to cover the expansion gaps around the room. |
- A few words about the material
- Types of locks and connection methods
- Requirements for the base
- Required tools
- Materials and calculation
- Substrate
- Additional material
- Video on the topic
- Laminate installation. Step-by-step video instructions.
- Laminate installation – step-by-step INSTRUCTIONS with explanations of ERRORS
- The best way to install laminate. Before installing for the first time – be sure to watch.
- How to properly install laminate
- How to lay laminate on a concrete floor
- 🔥 DO NOT INSTALL LAMINATE WITHOUT WATCHING THIS VIDEO
A few words about the material
Laminate is a wood-fiber coating made up of one or more layers of base, kraft paper, decorative, and polymer protective film. The material’s wear resistance category is determined by the strength and thickness of these layers.
Panels are categorized based on whether or not they are appropriate for use as flooring in homes and offices. Classes "31-34" relate to the household; classes "21-23" correspond to the commercial version. Furthermore, laminate is separated based on its physical characteristics and structure.
Types of locks and connection methods
A tongue-and-groove lock on each board secures the panels together into a single layer. These connections come in two varieties: Lock and Click. The panel’s installation location varies between them.
The sheets are joined parallel to the floor in the first instance. The tenon at the end slides into the laid slab’s groove. The board is then pounded on a block that is positioned against it using a rubber hammer. A distinctive click could be heard when the covering is fixed. Occasionally, glue or sealant is applied to the entire length of the lock to strengthen it.
The joint appears at a 45° angle in option number two. The slab is straightened and the lock clicks into position once the tenon is inserted into the groove. The sheets are joined along their side edges in this manner. The substance is arranged in rows, gathering complete strips. Once the panels are laid, they are attached to them.
A simple do-it-yourself project, installing laminate flooring over concrete requires careful base preparation, knowledge of the appropriate installation technology, and meticulous adherence to instructions. By going over crucial procedures like leveling and cleaning the concrete, adding a moisture barrier, and installing the laminate planks correctly, this guide will assist you in achieving a smooth, long-lasting, and aesthetically pleasing finish.
Requirements for the base
Every floor surface is carefully inspected before covering.
The previous layer needs to be taken off. Plywood sheets 10–12 cm thick or a dry building mixture are used to level the concrete screed, creating a self-leveling floor.
A primer is applied to the concrete to improve adhesion. Waterproofing is advised for private homes and apartments on the ground floor.
Required tools
In order to prepare the base and install the laminate flooring, the following tools are needed:
- Measuring tools: tape measure, building level, ruler and square.
- Marker.
- Wedges 10-12 mm thick to create expansion joints between the wall and the flooring. You can make them yourself from scraps of plywood or wooden slats.
- Clerical knife and scissors.
- Electric drill and mixer attachment for mixing the self-leveling floor solution.
- Needle roller on a long handle for leveling the self-leveling mixture.
- Construction roller with pile and paint brush for applying the primer.
- Cutting equipment: electric jigsaw or fine-toothed wood saw.
- Plastic or wooden block 30-40 cm long. It is used so as not to damage the edge and locks when driving in panels.
- Hammer.
- Curved in the shape of the letter "S" punch. It is necessary for pressing in the extreme elements when installing sheets with Lock locks. Such a tool can be made from a steel strip or replaced with a nail puller.
- Wood crowns for round holes with a cross-section of 30 mm.
Materials and calculation
You should consider the sheet thickness when selecting a laminate. It establishes the number of thresholds and the type of substrate.
Additionally, consider the following factors:
- wear resistance of panels;
- their resistance to mechanical damage and scratches;
- moisture resistance;
- environmental friendliness;
- compatibility of the boards with the style of the apartment;
- cost.
Based on the entire area, the amount of the primary material is determined and then increased by 10%. This addresses the issue of potential flaws and undercuts. Depending on the number of bends, the volumes are increased by 15-20% for independent finishing of rooms with complex geometry.
Substrate
The use of substrates is permitted by the laminate installation guidelines.
The underlay reduces micro-irregularities, encourages sound, heat, and moisture insulation in rooms, and lessens panel friction with the base.
These are some examples of coatings that are used:
— An entirely natural, eco-friendly coating. This kind of underlay ensures that the laminate will last a long time. It can sustain heavy loads, doesn’t shrink, and has good soundproofing qualities. Mold and mildew cannot proliferate when specially impregnated.
The material’s drawbacks include its price and the requirement for additional vapor barriers to be used during installation. The cork underlay is made in sheets or rolls with a thickness of 2-4 mm.
It is placed on a spotlessly clean floor that has a thick layer of vapor barrier film covering it. The material is fixed using a specific type of construction adhesive. Using a plastic spatula, the extra sticky mass is removed from under the sheets in accordance with the adhesive wallpaper technique.
Additional material
There are several connecting profiles in this category, such as threshold, corner, straight, and transition. Since each of them has unique specifications and fastening, you should determine the approximate size of the coating beforehand. You also need to choose your skirting boards. The best plastic components to use for conducting an electric or television cable are those that come in the shape of a box.
Although it may seem difficult, installing laminate flooring over a concrete floor is a manageable task if the proper planning and supplies are used. A successful installation depends on a clean, dry, and level concrete base. This step is crucial because it lays the groundwork for a durable and smooth floor. Don’t skip it.
Adhering to a methodical procedure aids in maintaining project organization and minimizes the likelihood of errors. The underlayment, which acts as a cushion and moisture barrier, should be laid first. Next, carefully install the laminate planks, being sure to leave a space around the edge of the room for expansion.
You can get results that look professional if you are patient and pay attention to details. To ensure clean, uniform edges and tight seams, take your time working with each plank. This do-it-yourself method not only helps you save money but also gives you the satisfaction of making improvements to your house yourself.
These instructions will help you install a stunning and long-lasting laminate floor on your concrete base. Savor the makeover and the increased worth of your living area!
