Laminate flooring is an affordable and durable option for homeowners who want to update their floors. Unlike hardwood, it’s easy to install and doesn’t require any special skills or tools. But how long does it take to install laminate flooring? The answer depends on several factors, including the size of the room, the type of laminate flooring, and the condition of the subfloor. In this article, we’ll explore these factors and give you a rough estimate of how long it takes to install laminate flooring.
Factors that Affect Installation Time
Several factors can affect the time it takes to install laminate flooring. Here are the most crucial factors you need to consider:
Room Size and Shape
The size and shape of the room are significant factors that affect installation time. Smaller rooms are generally faster to install than larger rooms. Similarly, square or rectangular rooms are easier and quicker to install than rooms with odd shapes or angles.
Type of Laminate Flooring
There are different types of laminate flooring available in the market, and each type has a different installation method. Some types of laminate flooring are easier and quicker to install than others. For example, click-lock laminate flooring is easier to install than glue-down or nail-down laminate flooring.
Subfloor Condition
The condition of the subfloor is another crucial factor that affects installation time. If the subfloor is uneven, damaged, or requires repair, it will take more time to prepare the subfloor before installing the laminate flooring. Similarly, if the subfloor needs to be leveled, it will add extra time to the installation process.
Furniture Removal
If there is furniture in the room, it will need to be removed before installing the laminate flooring. This can add extra time to the installation process, and you’ll need to consider this when estimating the installation time.
Preparation and Planning
Before installing laminate flooring, you need to prepare and plan to ensure a smooth and efficient installation process. Here are the essential steps to take:
Measuring the Room
The first step is to measure the room to determine the amount of laminate flooring you need. Measure the length and width of the room and multiply the two numbers to get the square footage. It’s recommended to add an extra 10% to account for any waste or mistakes during installation.
Acquiring Necessary Tools and Materials
Make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials for the installation process. Some of the essential tools include a saw, hammer, tapping block, spacers, and measuring tape. The materials you need include the laminate flooring, underlayment, baseboards, and trim.
Clearing the Area
Before installing laminate flooring, you need to clear the area of any furniture, rugs, or debris. This will give you a clear workspace and make the installation process easier and more efficient.
Choosing the Installation Method
There are different installation methods for laminate flooring, including click-lock, glue-down, and nail-down. The installation method you choose will depend on the type of laminate flooring and the condition of the subfloor. Click-lock laminate flooring is the most popular and easiest to install, while glue-down and nail-down methods require more preparation and skills.
Installation Process
After preparing and planning, it’s time to start the installation process. Here are the steps involved in installing laminate flooring:
Laying the Underlayment
The first step is to lay the underlayment, which is a thin foam layer that provides cushioning and sound insulation. The underlayment should be laid perpendicular to the direction of the laminate flooring planks.
Cutting and Fitting the Laminate Planks
Next, you need to cut and fit the laminate planks. Measure and cut the planks to fit the length of the room and leave a small gap around the edges to allow for expansion. Use spacers to maintain the gap between the planks and the wall.
Installing the Baseboards and Trim
After installing the laminate planks, install the baseboards and trim. This will cover the gaps between the laminate flooring and the walls and give a finished look to the room.
Cleaning and Inspection
Finally, clean the room and inspect the laminate flooring for any defects or mistakes. This will ensure that the installation process is complete, and the laminate flooring is ready to use.
Time Estimate for Different Room Sizes
The time it takes to install laminate flooring varies depending on the size of the room. Here’s a rough estimate of how long it takes to install laminate flooring in different room sizes:
Small Rooms (less than 100 sq. ft.)
Small rooms are easier and quicker to install than larger rooms. It typically takes around 4-6 hours to install laminate flooring in a small room, assuming that the subfloor is in good condition and there is no furniture to remove.
Medium Rooms (100-300 sq. ft.)
Medium-sized rooms take longer to install than small rooms. It typically takes around 8-12 hours to install laminate flooring in a medium-sized room, assuming that the subfloor is in good condition and there is no furniture to remove.
Large Rooms (over 300 sq. ft.)
Large rooms take the longest time to install, and the time can vary depending on the size and shape of the room. It typically takes around 12-24 hours to install laminate flooring in a large room, assuming that the subfloor is in good condition and there is no furniture to remove.
Stairs and Hallways
Stairs and hallways require additional time and effort to install laminate flooring. It typically takes around 12-16 hours to install laminate flooring on a set of stairs, assuming that the subfloor is in good condition and there is no furniture to remove. Similarly, it takes around 6-8 hours to install laminate flooring in a hallway, assuming that the subfloor is in good condition and there is no furniture to remove.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the time it takes to install laminate flooring depends on several factors, including the size of the room, the type of laminate flooring, the condition of the subfloor, and furniture removal. Small rooms typically take 4-6 hours to install, while large rooms can take up to 24 hours. Stairs and hallways require additional time and effort to install. By considering all these factors, you can estimate the time it takes to install laminate flooring and plan accordingly.
