Laminate Flooring Installation Buying Guide
Elevate your home with styling laminate flooring
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Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is a popular choice for homeowners looking to combine beauty and functionality without breaking the bank.
Whether you're renovating your home or installing flooring in a new space, laminate flooring offers a wide range of options to suit any style and budget.
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Key Features of Laminate Flooring
Durability
Laminate flooring is known for its resilience and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic.
Variety
Available in numerous styles, colors, and patterns.
Low Maintenance
With its wear-resistant surface, laminate flooring is easy to clean and maintain.
Cost-Effective
Laminate flooring provides the look of more expensive materials at a fraction of the price.
Free installation for any purchase over $2500!
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Types of Laminate Flooring
Tile Look Laminate
Offers the aesthetic of ceramic or porcelain tiles, perfect for kitchens and bathrooms. The grout lines are often printed into the design, giving the appearance of real tile.
Stone Look Laminate
Mimics the look of natural stone, such as marble or slate, adding a luxurious touch to any room. It’s ideal for areas where you want the elegance of stone without the cold, hard surface.
Textured Laminate
Provides added depth and authenticity with embossed textures that resemble natural materials. This type is great for adding a rustic or weathered look to your space.
Wood Look Laminate
Emulates the appearance of hardwood with realistic textures and grain patterns. This type is perfect for achieving a classic, timeless look.
Wide Plank Laminate
Features broader planks for a more contemporary look. This style can make rooms appear larger and more open.
Benefits of Laminate Flooring
- Affordability: Enjoy the elegance of high-end materials without the high price tag. Laminate flooring offers significant cost savings compared to hardwood, stone, or ceramic tile.
- Ease of Maintenance: Simply sweep or vacuum regularly and use a damp mop for deeper cleaning. The surface layer prevents dirt and dust from embedding.
- Stain and Fade Resistant: Laminate flooring's protective layer ensures long-lasting beauty. It’s less likely to discolor over time, maintaining its vibrant appearance.
- Environmentally Friendly: Often made with recycled materials and low VOC emissions, contributing to a healthier home environment. Many brands also use sustainable practices in their manufacturing processes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Laminate Flooring
Enhance your space with the sleek look of laminate flooring. Follow these steps for a flawless laminate flooring installation:
1. Prep the Room: Clear the room of furniture and decor to create ample space for work and maneuvering.
2. Gather Your Tools and Materials: Ensure you have all necessary tools and materials on hand before beginning the installation.
3. Trim the Doorways: Measure the thickness of your laminate flooring and trim the bottom of the door frames to accommodate it, ensuring proper door operation.
4. Prepare the Subfloor: Remove old flooring, inspect for cleanliness, mold, and mildew, and ensure the subfloor is level. Sweep to remove any debris.
5. Prepare the Subfloor Techniques: Level the subfloor using a leveling compound, shims, or sanding for a smooth surface. Apply a moisture barrier if needed and fill any seams with filler material.
6. Install the First Row of Flooring: Start in the top left corner, laying the first row parallel to the longest wall. Use spacers to maintain an even gap between the flooring and the wall. Gently tap the planks into place with a rubber mallet.
7. Continue Installation: Periodically check for gaps and adjust planks as needed. Use a rubber mallet to ensure a snug fit and place spacers every 4-8" along the wall.
8. Cutting the Planks: Measure and cut planks to fit around obstacles like pillars or doorways using a quality laminate floor cutter. Avoid forcing planks into place.
9. Install the Last Row: Trim the last row of laminate planks to fit without forcing them into place, ensuring an even finish.
Client Success Stories
Richard Tracey
Luxury Vinyl Floor Installation
“We were thrilled by Go Flooring’s affordable prices and high-quality workmanship. Their meticulous attention to detail ensured a perfect finish, especially enhancing the area around our fireplace.”
Crystal Douglas
Luxury Vinyl Floor Installation
“Go Flooring provided the best flooring experience of my life with their efficient service and excellent workmanship. The offer of free installation and no interest financing was a huge plus”
Ronald Wray
Hardwood Floor
“Go Flooring quickly installed my floors and made the process effortless. Their team was efficient, and their follow-up ensured my complete satisfaction.”
Katie Teague
Luxury Vinyl Floor Installation
“I’m thrilled with my new Go Flooring floors! They’re high-quality, waterproof, and perfect for my pets. The installation was seamless and quick, making the whole experience excellent.”
Annette Hermida
Hardwood Floor Installation
“I chose barley oak floors from Go Flooring, and they’re perfect for my lifestyle. They’re waterproof and scratch-proof, ideal for my big dog. Installation was swift, and the floors look fantastic!”
Carolyn Roberts
Luxury Vinyl Floor Installation
“I chose barley oak floors from Go Flooring, and they’re perfect for my lifestyle. They’re waterproof and scratch-proof, ideal for my big dog. Installation was swift, and the floors look fantastic”
How to Care for Laminate Floors
Proper care and maintenance are crucial to keeping your laminate floors looking their best and prolonging their lifespan. Here are some essential laminate flooring care tips to help you maintain the beauty and durability of your floors:
Regular Cleaning
- Sweeping and Vacuuming:
- Sweep or vacuum your laminate floors daily to remove dirt and debris that can cause scratches.
- Use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment or a broom with soft bristles to avoid damaging the surface.
- Mopping:
- Use a damp mop with a gentle laminate floor cleaner.
- Avoid excessive water to prevent damage. A microfiber mop is ideal because it uses less water.
- Do not use a soaking wet mop as water can seep into the seams and cause swelling.
Spill Management
- Immediate Cleanup:
- Wipe up spills immediately with a dry or slightly damp cloth to prevent moisture damage.
- For sticky spills, use a damp cloth with a mild cleaner.
Stain Removal
- Stubborn Stains:
- For tough stains like oil, paint, markers, or ink, use a small amount of acetone or nail polish remover on a clean white cloth.
- Gently rub the stain, then wipe with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
Preventive Measures
- Use Mats and Rugs:
- Place mats at entrances to trap dirt and moisture from shoes.
- Use rugs in high-traffic areas to reduce wear and tear.
- Furniture Pads:
- Use felt pads or furniture coasters under the legs of furniture to prevent scratches and dents.
- Regularly move heavy furniture slightly to prevent permanent indentations.
- Avoid Sharp Objects:
- Keep pet nails trimmed and avoid dragging sharp objects across the floor to prevent scratches.
Avoiding Damage
- No Waxing:
- Laminate flooring does not require waxing or polishing. Using wax can damage the surface and make it slippery.
- Sunlight Protection:
- Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade laminate floors. Use curtains or blinds to protect your floors from UV rays.
- Proper Cleaning Products:
- Use cleaning products specifically designed for laminate floors. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or scouring pads as they can scratch the surface.
- Do not use steam cleaners or wet mops, as the moisture can cause the laminate to warp or swell.
FAQs About Laminate Flooring
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