Laminate floor installations have evolved to such an extent that even bathrooms and kitchens are no longer too much of a challenge for this interior design idea. Provided that you follow installation instructions closely, a do it yourself enthusiast can confidently create a brand new bathroom look in the space of a few hours.
What should you keep in mind when doing a laminate floor installation in a bathroom or kitchen?
Many suppliers are reluctant to recommend a laminate floor installation in a bathroom, because of the moisture risk involved. However, most quality laminate flooring products are now highly resistant to water and warranted for use during bathroom and kitchen remodeling projects. The only caveat is that you don t deviate from the detailed installation instructions. This is one area where you may want to consider calling in professional help.
1. Shower Floor No No: Never attempt a laminate flooring installation in an area with a floor drain, such as a shower floor. This type of flooring also isn t recommended for use in a steam room, due to the extremely high humidity level.
2. Water Woes: The main culprit that leads to floor damage such as buckling or blistering, is standing water. If there is any spillage or overflow, it is vital that you dry the floor immediately. Cleaning a laminate floor should never involve more than a damp mop. A wet wash is a straight road to trouble.
3. Ultimate Underlay: In a bathroom or kitchen you need to cut the underlayment even with the top of the flooring after installation, so that it can be sealed with the floor.
4. Joint Joinery: The tighter the joints lock during a laminate flooring installation, the better their ability to resist moisture. Don t manipulate the joints too much. Every time they are loosened and re locked, they will have a looser fit. This has to be avoided at all costs during bathroom and kitchen installations.
5. Glued To The Task: You may not need to do this in the rest of the house, but manufacturers recommend that in bathrooms and kitchens you glue the joints to seal them properly. Apply the glue to the top of the tongue only. As you click the joints together, a thin bead of glue will show on the surface. This must be wiped off with a damp cloth, before the glue dries. This procedure is only necessary during a bathroom or kitchen laminate flooring installation.
6. Setting The Seal: Around the perimeter of the room you will use 100 mildew resistant silicone caulk or a product such as Pergo sealant according to the manufacturer s directions. One tip that is often given is to apply masking tape parallel to and just off the edge of the laminate plank. You can then fill the expansion space, remove any overflow carefully with a putty knife and gently remove the tape. Every joint and expansion space must be protected in this way to prevent moisture and humidity from seeping into the core of the planks used during the laminate flooring installation.
7. Trimming The Tub: A variety of decorative color coordinated molding options are available for use around tubs and basins. The expansion space first needs to be filled with caulk. The molding trim can then be placed in the caulk while it is still wet. The joint between the tub or basin also needs to be treated with caulk.
8. Mind The Moldings: Always use a T molding between the bathroom and the adjoining area. This will also be sealed with caulk.
9. Do A Dry Run: A bathroom laminate flooring installation is slightly different due to the use of caulk and glue. Manufacturers therefore recommend that you leave the room to dry for up to 24 hours before using it.
10. Cabinets Come First: Install any bathroom of kitchen cabinets before doing the laminate flooring installation.
Remember that any laminate flooring that is damp or wet becomes extremely slippery. Be extra careful in a bathroom. All in all, if done with care and the requisite sealants, a bathroom laminate flooring installation can be most successful and durable.
Author Resource:
http://Home-Improvement-Time.com - Get your free copy of the Laminate Flooring Buyer's Guide at http://www.home-improvement-time.com/download/ where you get useful information on 'How To Interpret The AC Rating?', 'What Is Underlayment And Why Do You Need It?' and much more...
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