Laminate flooring in Hazel Green, AL offers an affordable and attractive alternative to hardwood, but it requires a level subfloor for proper installation. Uneven surfaces can lead to squeaky floors, gaps, and even damage to the laminate planks. Don't worry, though! Leveling your subfloor is a manageable DIY project with the right tools and techniques. Here's how to get it done:
Why leveling your subfloor is crucial for laminate installation
Before we dive into the how-to, let's understand why a level subfloor is so important for laminate flooring:
Stability: A level subfloor provides a stable base for the laminate planks, preventing them from flexing or moving underfoot. This ensures a secure and long-lasting installation.
Appearance: An uneven subfloor can cause visible gaps between the planks or create an uneven surface that's noticeable once the flooring is installed.
Functionality: Walking on an uneven laminate floor can be uncomfortable and may even lead to tripping hazards.
Tools for leveling your subfloor
- Level: A long, straight level is essential for checking for unevenness.
- Shims or Thin Plywood: These are used to raise low spots.
- Floor Leveler (Self-Leveling Compound): This product is used to fill in larger dips and create a smooth surface.
- Screws and Drill: To secure loose floorboards or add shims.
- Sandpaper or Sander: To smooth out high spots or remove old adhesive.
- Putty Knife or Trowel: For applying floor leveler.
- Safety Gear: Gloves, goggles, and a dust mask.
Step-by-step guide on how to level a subfloor for laminate flooring
- Clean and Prepare: Remove any existing flooring, baseboards, and debris from the subfloor.
- Check for Unevenness: Use your level to identify high and low spots. Mark these areas with a pencil.
- Address Squeaks and Loose Boards: Secure any loose boards with screws and address squeaky spots by adding shims or wood glue.
- Leveling High Spots: If you have significant high spots, use a sander or sandpaper to remove the excess material.
Leveling low spots:
- Minor dips: Use shims or thin plywood pieces under the laminate underlayment to raise the area to the desired level.
- Larger dips: Apply a self-leveling compound to fill in the low areas. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing and application. Let it dry completely before proceeding.
- Sand the Subfloor (Optional): If you've used a lot of shims or floor leveler, you may want to lightly sand the subfloor to create a smooth and even surface.
- Clean Up: Thoroughly clean the subfloor to remove any dust or debris before installing the laminate.
Important Considerations
Moisture: Check your subfloor for moisture issues before leveling. Excess moisture can damage laminate flooring.
Underlayment: Most laminate flooring requires an underlayment for added moisture protection, sound insulation, and a smoother surface. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the appropriate underlayment.
Professional Help: If you're unsure about any step of the process or your subfloor has significant unevenness, consider consulting a professional flooring installer.
Order beautiful laminate flooring for your home at One On One Flooring And Design
At One On One Flooring and Design, we understand the importance of a properly prepared subfloor for a successful laminate installation. As a family-owned and operated business serving Hazel Green, Huntsville, and the entire Tennessee Valley for over 40 years, we're committed to providing expert advice and quality flooring solutions.
Whether you're tackling a DIY project or seeking professional installation, we're here to help you achieve beautiful, long-lasting laminate floors. Contact or visit us today for personalized assistance and expert guidance.
