How to Lay a Floating Floor

Welcome to our comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to lay a floating floor. In this tutorial, we will walk you through the process of installing laminate flooring, providing you with the knowledge and confidence to achieve a flawless result that will enhance the beauty of your home. Let's get started!

Step 1: Preparation

Prepare the floorboards by leaving them in the room for a few days to adjust to the temperature. Shuffle the planks to distribute the colours evenly. If required, trim down boards so they sit straight against the wall, ensuring a neat and professional finish.

Step 2: Underlay Installation

To provide a solid foundation for your floating floor, it's essential to install the underlay correctly. Lay the underlay over the floor area, ensuring the lengths are side by side. 

Trim it to fit using a utility knife. Tape the joins securely, ensuring they don't overlap. Properly installing the underlay will enhance the durability and moisture resistance of your laminate flooring.

Step 3: Laying the Boards

Now it's time to start laying the laminate floorboards. Begin in the left-hand corner with the short tongue against the wall. Place the expansion blocks against the ends of the boards and at intervals along the wall. 

If you have a section left over from the first row, you can use this to start the second row. Stagger the joints between the boards randomly for a visually pleasing result. Maintain an approximate spacing of 400mm on either side of the previous row's join.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

After laying the boards, remove the expansion blocks and neatly tuck the beading into the wall skirting. This allows the floorboards to have the necessary space to expand and contract as needed. It's essential to ensure proper ventilation and accommodate any natural movements of the flooring.

Step 5: Maintenance and Care

Congratulations on your new laminate floor! To keep it looking its best, follow these simple maintenance tips:

• Wipe away everyday marks quickly and easily with a damp cloth. 
• Avoid using abrasive substances that may damage the floor's surface. 

With proper care, your new floor will continue to shine for years to come.

Floating floor FAQs

I’m on a budget - are floating floors a good choice?

Absolutely! Floating floors offer an affordable option for updating your space or replacing old flooring. They provide a near-identical look to traditional timber flooring at a fraction of the price.

What are the advantages of floating floors?

Installing laminate flooring as a floating floor is relatively quick and easy, even for novice DIY enthusiasts. The underlay acts as a moisture barrier, preventing mould and stains. Floating floors are engineered for stability and allow for movement and expansion. They are a cost-effective and practical flooring solution.

What sort of finishes are available?

Floating floors come in various finishes, including laminate boards, bamboo boards, engineered timber boards, and solid timber boards. Choose the one that suits your style and budget.

Ready to lay your new floor?

At Mitre 10, we offer a wide range of flooring accessories, including grout, adhesives, and sealers, to help you prepare for your new flooring project. Check out our inspiring how-to guides for further DIY inspiration. Find your nearest Mitre 10 store or contact our friendly customer care team for assistance in planning your next home improvement project.