Laminate flooring is another favourite for those who are seeking a middle-ground between floor tiles and hardwood. But the majority of squeaks, weak spots and gaps are not from bad laminate but rather fitting errors. Here are some examples of the most common mistakes you’re making (and how to avoid them).
1) Skipping subfloor prep
The boards flex when you walk on them, which in turn causes squeaking and wrenches the joints open if it is uneven below. Solution: raise, secure any loose seams or reattach them to the subfloor; screw down creaky floorboards and level sags before you begin. For 12mm Laminate Flooring, contact irwintiles.ie/wooden-flooring/laminate-flooring/laminate-12mm-water-resistant
2) Using the wrong underlay
An underlay that is too soft, or made from some thicker materials, can make the floor feel spongy and eventually cause it to work loose over time with a supposedly wear-resistant click system. Solution: select a purpose-made laminate underlay and ensure it is matched to the subfloor.
3) No expansion gap
Laminate will widen and narrow in a wet environment. When it is fitted too tightly to walls, the slab can buckle in the middle or push joints apart. Solution: an equal expansion joint is to be left throughout the edges, and accurate trims should be used.
4) Not acclimatising the boards
Moving them straight to a warm room from the van can be enough for the boards, brought in cold (having been sitting out on-site overnight), to start accommodating after fitting. Solution: Lay the packs flat in a room for 24–48 hours to acclimate (per manufacturer’s recommendation)
5) Rushing doorways and transitions
Door bars and thresholds are the first place movement will appear. Solution: Strategise your transitions, tidy cuts and don´t pressure boards into place.
Follow the product’s guidance and don’t be afraid to get a fitter in for trickier rooms. For that professional finish, measure twice. And then again. Look at underlay requirements, cutting specifications and density guidelines for best results – this may change depending on your room.
