I'm installing laminate in a kitchen. The existing floor had 2 layers of linoleum on top of 1/4" plywood on top of 3/4" tongue and groove planks. The 1/4" plywood does not go under the cabinets. The planks are on 8" joists spaced every 16". House was built in 65.

To reduce the height difference between adjoining rooms I removed the 2 layers of linoleum. While this helped the kitchen will still be about 1/4 inch higher after the laminate.

What are your thoughts on removing the 1/4" plywood? Am I asking for trouble where I might end up with an uneven plank floor? Does the 1/4" plywood add any structural value or is this only for smoothness under linoleum?

If it's reasonable to remove the 1/4" plywood is it important to lay the laminate (46-7/16" x 15-1/2") perpendicular to the planks which would be parallel to the joists?

 

The 1/4" plywood is gone. Now left with 5-1/2" planks.

Anyone care to comment on whether best to lay the laminate perpendicular to the planks (parallel to joists) or the other way?

 

Set the wood parallel with the longest wall.

 

Thanks Mark

It appears that it would be easier for me to lay the first row of laminate on an inside wall and work left and right. The room has a 90 degree turn. Reason for this is to get the first row under the cabinet overhang. I've put down laminate before but always working only in one direction.

Can you work in two directions with laminate?

 

There is no problem laying a row of laminate in the middle of the floor and working left and right. Laminate is Dupont Real Touch that looks like ceramic tile. Floor looks great.