Laminate Flooring in Santa Ana, CA from Sharon and Son's Flooring & Cabinets

Installing Laminate Flooring: Key Mistakes to Avoid

For Orange County residents looking to enhance their spaces, laminate flooring is an attractive option. At Sharon and Son's Flooring & Cabinets, we've seen how this budget-friendly flooring solution can transform homes with its elegant appearance and durability. However, as a Santa Ana flooring store serving Orange County since 1984, we've also encountered common installation mistakes that can affect both the look and longevity of laminate flooring. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure a smooth and satisfying installation experience.
 

1. Skipping Floor Preparation

Preparing your subfloor is crucial before installing laminate. If the floor isn’t clean, level, and dry, it can lead to issues like uneven planks and squeaking noises. Dirt, debris, and even small imperfections can compromise the integrity of the laminate, making it essential to take the time to prepare the floor thoroughly.
 

2. Ignoring Acclimatization

Laminate planks expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity. A mistake many DIYers make is skipping the acclimatization step, where laminate flooring is allowed to adjust to the room's climate. We recommend keeping the unopened laminate planks in the room for at least 48 hours. This will reduce the risk of buckling or gaps forming once the flooring is installed, especially in climates like Orange County where temperature fluctuations are common.
 

3. Not Using the Correct Underlayment

Underlayment adds a cushion that helps absorb sound and adds stability to your flooring. However, each laminate product may require a specific type of underlayment to work properly. At Sharon and Son's Flooring & Cabinets, we stock a range of underlayment materials designed for Orange County homes, and our team can help you choose the best option for your laminate flooring.
 

4. Overlooking Expansion Gaps

Leaving expansion gaps around the edges of the room is vital. Laminate flooring needs space to expand when the climate changes, and if it doesn't have enough room, it can warp or buckle. Ensure there is at least a 1/4 inch gap between the flooring and the walls or fixed objects. To maintain an even gap, spacers can be used along the walls during installation, ensuring the laminate has room to move without compromising the look of the flooring.
 

5. Failing to Stagger the Planks

Staggering planks creates a stable floor and gives a more natural look. A common mistake we see is a straight, uniform pattern, which can lead to structural weaknesses. To avoid this, cut some boards at the beginning and end of rows to create a staggered effect. This not only strengthens the installation but also enhances the visual appeal of the floor.
 

6. Improper Use of Tools

Laminate flooring requires specific tools, like a tapping block and pull bar, to fit the planks tightly together without damaging them. If you’re using the wrong tools or techniques, you risk chipping the planks or creating gaps. Our experts at Sharon and Son's Flooring & Cabinets in Santa Ana can guide you on the right tools to use or, if you prefer, handle the installation for a flawless finish.
 

7. Neglecting Moisture Control

Although laminate is moisture-resistant, it's still vulnerable to excessive water exposure. When installing laminate in kitchens, bathrooms, or other areas where moisture is present, be sure to install a vapor barrier beneath the laminate. This extra layer of protection will guard against potential water damage, especially in humid parts of Orange County.
 

8. Misjudging DIY Abilities

While laminate installation is often considered DIY-friendly, it still requires a good level of skill and patience. If you find yourself overwhelmed or uncertain at any point, remember that our team at Sharon and Son's Flooring & Cabinets has been helping Orange County residents since 1984. We’re here to assist with professional installation, ensuring your laminate flooring is properly installed and lasts for years to come.
 

Transform Your Home with Sharon and Son's Flooring & Cabinets

Avoiding these common mistakes will help you get the most out of your laminate flooring, making it a lasting and beautiful addition to your home. If you need guidance or a professional touch, visit Sharon and Son's Flooring & Cabinets at our Santa Ana showroom. With decades of experience serving Orange County, we're here to help you choose, install, and maintain the perfect flooring for your space.