Installing Glueless Laminate Flooring: A Step-by-Step Guide

Glueless laminate flooring is relatively easy to install and requires only a few basic tools to complete the task.

Make Preparations

The first step in installing glueless laminate flooring is to measure the area in which it will be installed. You’ll want to make sure that you have enough material on hand to complete the project. When you purchase the materials, always remember that the boxes of flooring must lay flat. They must also be left in the room in which they are to be installed for at least 48 hours prior to installation.

Step 1 – Remove Molding

Remove any molding around the floor except the baseboards. If there is carpet on the floor, that must be removed as well. While this type of flooring can be installed on most surfaces, it cannot be installed over carpet. If there are any “valleys" in the floor that are deeper than 1/8 of an inch, then you will have to use a leveling compound to make the floor level. Sweep the floor clean before beginning work.

Step 2 – Install Underlayment

There is an underlayment material that must be installed under the glueless laminate flooring if the flooring doesn’t already have it attached. This is sort of a foam material that reduces noise among other things. Remember that this is a “floating” style floor and the underlayment will eliminate squeaking and other noises.

Step 3 – Install the Flooring

Now you are ready to install the glueless laminate flooring. Follow the instructions provided with the material for proper installation. Remember that when the instructions call for tapping the plank into place to use a block of wood or other material to prevent damaging the track.