Everything You Need to Know About Wood Laminate Installation

DIY or Pro? Everything You Need to Know About Wood Laminate Installation

Installing new flooring can instantly revitalise your home’s aesthetic, and wood laminate installation is one of the most popular, affordable, and attractive options for South Africans to achieve this. With its realistic wood finish, durability, and versatility, laminate is ideal for a broad range of climates and interior styles.

But, should you complete the project yourself, or call in the professionals? At Top Carpets and Floors, we install over 100,000 floors nationally every year. This guide breaks down the full installation process, essential tools, and factors to consider if you decide to ‘go it alone’.

Preparing Your Floor for Wood Laminate Installation

Installing laminate flooring begins with proper planning and preparation. Firstly, your subfloor needs to be dry, level, and clean. In South Africa’s varying humidity conditions, failing to plan and prepare properly can lead to warping, lifting, or cracking of your laminate.

Start by removing the old flooring and thoroughly cleaning the surface. Inspect the subfloor for uneven areas and smooth it out using a self-levelling compound if necessary. For concrete subfloors, moisture testing is vital. Wood laminate is very resilient, but it does not tolerate excessive moisture.

Additionally, as part of wood laminate floor prep, don’t skip removing skirtings or trimming door jambs to make space for the new flooring to fit neatly underneath.

Essential Laminate Floor Tools to Get the Job Done

You can follow a DIY flooring guide, provided you have the right tools for the job. This is a short breakdown of what you might need:

• Tape measure and pencil
• Utility knife
• Spacers (for expansion gaps)
• Rubber mallet
• Laminate guillotine
• Pull bar
• Tapping block
• Jigsaw or circular saw
• Spirit level
• Moisture meter
• Underlay

Many hardware stores stock toolkits designed specifically for laminate installation, or you can hire equipment if it’s a once-off project. Either way, investing in quality tools can make the job easier and more precise, which is critical for a polished finish.

Laminate Underlay Options: Choosing the Right Base

The correct underlayment is more important than you might think in any successful wood laminate installation. It provides insulation, reduces noise, and helps the flooring ‘sit’ evenly on the subfloor.

For example, in humid coastal areas, choose an underlay with built-in moisture barriers. In colder regions, consider insulating underlays that trap heat to add warmth. Some options may include:

• Standard Foam Underlay: Ideal for dry areas with level subfloors
• Vapour Barrier: Essential over concrete or in damp regions
• Foam and Foil Barrier: Perfect for apartments or multi-storey homes to reduce noise

Consult your flooring supplier or installer to ensure you match your underlayment to both your subfloor type and climate conditions.

Glued vs. Floating Floor Installation Tips

Many modern wood laminate flooring systems are designed as floating floor installations, meaning the planks lock together without adhesive and ‘float’ over the subfloor. This is brilliant for DIYers, as it’s cleaner, faster, and easier to adjust. Alternatively, glued installations offer more stability but are time-consuming and best left to professionals. In fact, this method may be more appropriate in commercial spaces or homes with high foot traffic.

Floating Floor Installation Tips:

• Leave a 10mm expansion gap around the edges
• Stagger the joints for a natural look
• Start in a corner and work left to right
• Double-check each plank’s locking mechanism

When to Consider Professional Laminate Installation

While DIY can save money, it isn’t always the best option over time. There are times when professional laminate installation is necessary. Such as when:

• You’re installing over a grossly uneven subfloor
• Your layout involves complex angles or room surface joins
• Moisture control is a major concern
• You lack the right tools or experience

Poorly finished flooring projects can create gapping, peaking, moisture damage, or worse due to incorrect installation. Choosing experienced installers could help avoid costly repairs later. Professionals are also familiar with local conditions. South Africa’s climate can shift rapidly between locations and provinces, affecting flooring performance. A skilled installer will factor this into the project, ensuring durability and longevity.

A Trusted Flooring Partner Since 1988

With good preparation, the right tools, and attention to detail, any DIY project can be a great way to bond as a couple, family, or team. However, many homeowners still prefer the efficiency, expertise, and warranties that come with professional laminate installation.

If you are unclear about where to start, Top Carpets and Floors is here to help. With over 130 stores nationwide, expert advice, and a comprehensive selection of premium flooring solutions, we make it easy to transform your home. Consult with us and learn why thousands of households trust us with their perfect wood laminate installations.