How To Install Laminate Underlayment

Laminate flooring is easy to install, but you need to use the proper laminate underlayment in order to put the floor down properly. In order to properly install a laminate floor, you have to understand how to install the laminate floor underlayment first.

The Sub Floor

Laminate flooring goes on top of a sub floor. This is made out of plywood. You should first remove the old flooring and then put down a sub floor made from thin plywood. You can use a nail gun to get the floor down properly so that it is even. It is necessary to put down a plywood floor before you begin to install laminate flooring.

Laminate Flooring Underlayment

When you purchase your laminate floor, you will have to purchase underlayment. The laminate flooring underlayment consists of a type of foam that you put down on the floor. This is also secured to the sub floor by the use of a nail gun. This foam is not very thick but will make sure that your laminated flooring does not move.

Installing The Laminate Floor

After you have installed the underlayment for laminate flooring, you are then ready to install the actual flooring. There are grooves in the sides of the flooring that make it easy for it to fit together like puzzle pieces. You also need to use glue to hold the floor together. You will have to use special clamps to make sure that the floor dries evenly and that the laminate flooring does not slip.

Where To Get Laminate Floor Underlay

You can purchase the laminate underlay wherever you purchase laminate flooring. This is readily available at home improvement stores. You should look for the laminate underlayment that is made for the type of floor that you put down. There are different types of thickness and much depends on where you are installing the floor.

When you go to the store to purchase laminate floor, be sure to ask about the laminate underlay. Underlayment for laminate floors is the most important aspect of laying the floor down right. You should not try to put down a laminated floor without underlayment.

There are some laminate flooring attached underlayment that you can use to make the job easier. This includes the flooring and the underlayment all in one product. Many people find that it is easier to use this one step process to lay down their laminate floors than having to use the rolled foam under the laminated flooring.

Laminate underlayment can be purchased separately from the flooring or it can be attached to the flooring. Most people are happy to pay extra to have the attached product as it makes installation of the floor much easier.

Regardless of which type of underlayment and flooring you use, be sure to install it on a flat surface. If the sub floor is in good shape, you can leave it and then just install the product. If not, you need to put down a plywood sub floor before you can properly install laminated flooring in your home.