5 Common Mistakes When Installing Laminate Flooring
Author: Levi Winkler, Flooring Expert & Owner of Rejuvenation Floor & Design
Laminate flooring has become one of the most popular flooring choices for homeowners, and it's easy to see why. Modern laminate floors offer realistic wood visuals, impressive durability, easy maintenance, and excellent value compared to many other flooring options. In recent years, waterproof laminate products have become especially popular because they provide greater protection against spills and everyday household messes.
Many homeowners are also drawn to laminate because it is often marketed as a DIY-friendly flooring solution. While laminate installation can be more straightforward than some other flooring types, that doesn't mean it is foolproof. Even small mistakes made when laying laminate flooring can lead to problems that affect the floor's appearance, performance, and lifespan.
The good news is that most laminate flooring installation issues are preventable. Whether you're tackling a project yourself or hiring a professional installer, understanding some of the most common mistakes can help ensure your new floor performs as intended for years to come. As Portland's trusted laminate flooring experts,
Rejuvenation Floor & Design has helped countless local homeowners avoid these pitfalls and achieve flooring they'll love for years.
1. Skipping Proper Floor Preparation
One of the most common—and costly—mistakes occurs before the first laminate plank is even installed. Some homeowners assume that because laminate flooring is a floating floor, it can simply be installed over whatever surface already exists. In reality, the condition of the subfloor plays a major role in how the finished floor will perform. Before installation begins, the subfloor should be clean, dry, structurally sound, and reasonably level according to the flooring manufacturer's specifications. Any debris, old fasteners, damaged sections, or significant low and high spots should be addressed before installation.
When subfloor preparation is skipped, homeowners may experience:
- Squeaks and creaks
- Soft or bouncy areas
- Excessive movement between planks
- Premature wear on locking systems
- Visible irregularities in the finished floor
A quality laminate floor is only as good as the surface beneath it. Spending extra time preparing the subfloor can help prevent many common complaints after installation.
2. Not Allowing Proper Expansion Gaps
Laminate flooring naturally responds to changes in temperature and humidity throughout the year. As conditions change, the flooring may expand slightly during some seasons and contract during others. Because laminate is designed as a floating floor system, it needs space around the perimeter of the room to accommodate this natural movement. Unfortunately, some installers make the mistake of fitting planks too tightly against walls, cabinets, fireplaces, stair railings, or other fixed objects.
When there is no room for movement, pressure can build within the floor system. Over time, this may cause the floor to buckle, peak, or develop noticeable areas of stress. Most manufacturers provide specific guidelines regarding expansion space requirements. These gaps are later covered by baseboards, quarter round, or other trim pieces, so they are typically not visible once the project is complete. Although expansion gaps may seem like a minor detail, done incorrectly, they're often the most common mistake when laying laminate flooring.
3. Ignoring Moisture Conditions
Waterproof laminate flooring has changed the way many homeowners think about laminate. However, one common misconception is that waterproof automatically means moisture is no longer a concern. While modern waterproof laminate products do an excellent job protecting against spills from above, moisture originating from below the floor can still create problems.
This issue is especially important when installing laminate over concrete. Concrete naturally contains moisture, and in some situations excess moisture can migrate upward through the slab when it’s below grade. Without a proper 6mil plastic vapor barrier, that moisture may affect the flooring system over time.
Potential problems include:
- Floor movement
- Joint separation
- Swelling in certain areas
- Damage to underlayment materials
- Warranty concerns
Want to learn more? Take a look at our laminate flooring installation in a basement where moisture was a serious concern.
4. Choosing the Wrong Underlayment
Underlayment may not be the most exciting part of a flooring project, but it plays a critical role in how laminate flooring performs. Different laminate products have different requirements. Some feature attached padding, while others require a separate underlayment. In some cases, specific moisture barriers may also be required depending on the installation environment. Problems can occur when homeowners select an underlayment based solely on price or install products that are not recommended by the flooring manufacturer.
The proper underlayment can provide several important benefits, including:
- Improved sound reduction
- Greater walking comfort
- Added moisture protection
- Better support for locking systems
- Improved overall floor performance
Using the wrong underlayment—or installing multiple layers when they are not approved—can actually create excessive movement within the floor and increase the likelihood of joint issues over time. Following the manufacturer's recommendations is usually the best approach.
5. Treating Laminate Like Hardwood After Installation
The installation process doesn't end when the last plank is installed. Many homeowners unintentionally shorten the lifespan of their laminate floor by using cleaning methods that are better suited for other flooring types.
For example, excessive water, wet mopping, steam cleaners, and harsh cleaning chemicals can all create unnecessary wear or damage. Even waterproof laminate products are designed to resist moisture, not remain exposed to standing water indefinitely.
To help protect your investment:
- Clean spills promptly
- Use manufacturer-approved cleaners
- Avoid excessive moisture during cleaning
- Install felt pads under furniture
- Use floor mats near entrances
- Keep pet nails trimmed to reduce scratching
Fortunately, laminate flooring is relatively easy to maintain when proper cleaning practices are followed.
Why Professional Installation Can Make a Difference
While many homeowners successfully install laminate flooring themselves, professional installation offers several advantages. Experienced installers understand the importance of subfloor preparation, moisture testing, expansion requirements, transition placement, and manufacturer guidelines. They also have the tools and experience necessary to handle challenging layouts, uneven surfaces, and other conditions that can complicate a project. Perhaps most importantly, professional installation helps ensure that the flooring performs the way it was designed to perform. A quality laminate floor is a significant investment, and proper installation helps homeowners get the maximum value from that investment.
Final Thoughts
Laminate flooring remains one of the most practical and versatile flooring options available today. Modern products offer beautiful visuals, impressive durability, and easier maintenance than ever before. However, even the best laminate flooring can experience problems if key installation steps are overlooked. Proper floor preparation, expansion gaps, moisture management, underlayment selection, and maintenance all contribute to the long-term success of the floor. Whether you're planning a DIY project or working with a professional installer, understanding these common mistakes can help you avoid unnecessary issues and enjoy your new flooring for many years to come.
Have questions about your laminate flooring project? Stop by our Portland showroom or contact Rejuvenation Floor & Design today to speak with our flooring experts and get started on the right foot.
About the Author:
Levi Winkler is the owner of Rejuvenation Floor & Design, where he has been helping homeowners and businesses transform their spaces with high-quality flooring for over 16 years. Based in Portland, Oregon, Levi specializes in hardwood flooring, as well as luxury vinyl, laminate, and more. With decades of hands-on flooring installation and restoration experience, Levi is known for his attention to detail, product knowledge, and commitment to long-lasting results. He works closely with clients to ensure every flooring project is tailored to their style, needs, and budget.
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