Laminate & LVP Installation

Laminates and LVP are a more affordable alternative to hardwood installation. However, their lifespan is considerably shorter. If you are short on funds, this route may be the way to go. Then down the road, you can replace it with hardwood, if you so choose.

Laminate & LVP Preferences

Choosing the type and size of plank is a personal preference, but we can give some recommendations.

Choose a plank that is waterproof first and foremost. Find a brand that uses a click lock system. Also choose a plank that doesn't have "dirt catchers" such as a grain with small valleys or crevices.

Our last recommendation is choosing a plank that has a cork backing. The cork backing allows the plank a little give when it comes to "subfloor forgiveness". This means if your subfloor isn't perfectly level, the cork will give the plank a little cushion so it doesn't crack. The cork backing also reduces costs, since you don't need an underlayment.

Laminate & LVP Purchase

If you purchase the planks yourself, buy 10% more square footage than you need for waste. If the planks will be installed on a 45 degree angle or if the areas are small and lots of cuts will be made, you may want to buy 15% more. It's better to have too much than not enough. In addition to the planks, you may need matching t-mouldings or reducers. We'll let you know if you need them and how much to purchase.

As with other products, different lot numbers can change in color, so check all the boxes for the same lot number.

When your project is complete, keep several boxes on hand for repairs. These planks are soft, so they get scratched and dented on occasion.

Laminate & LVP Purchase

If you purchase the planks yourself, buy 10% more square footage than you need for waste. If the planks will be installed on a 45 degree angle or if the areas are small and lots of cuts will be made, you may want to buy 15% more. It's better to have too much than not enough. In addition to the planks, you may need matching t-mouldings or reducers. We'll let you know if you need them and how much to purchase.

As with other products, different lot numbers can change in color, so check all the boxes for the same lot number.

When your project is complete, keep several boxes on hand for repairs. These planks are soft, so they get scratched and dented on occasion.

Laminate & LVP Installation

Prior to installing, the subfloor must be checked. It must be as perfectly level as possible, whether it's wood or concrete. If the subfloor isn't level, there are several options to fix it including grinding the hills or adding playground sand to the valleys. If the subfloor isn't level, the planks will squeek and possibly crack over time.

The great thing about Laminates and LVP is how quickly they are installed. Once the installation is complete, there is no additional finish work to be done except to put your baseboards back on.

Care for this floor the same as hardwood. Use a Swiffer or other low water cleaning system with appropriate cleaner. If you feel Laminates or Luxury Vinyl is the way to go, fill out the form on this site for a free estimate.