Getting Laminate Flooring to Lock

Locking Laminate Floors

• 1

  Cut the tongue off the first row of boards using a circular or table saw. This side of the boards will be placed against the starting wall. Put rubber spacers along the starting wall. Typically, a ¼-inch space from the wall is sufficient for expansion, but check the manufacturer's instructions that came with the laminate flooring.

• 2

  Insert the tongue side on the short end of one board into the groove side of another board. Slide it toward the edge while keeping the board tilted at a slight angle. When the boards are aligned, press down to lock. This will connect your pieces into one long row. Place the tapping block against the end of the board and tap gently using the rubber mallet. This will secure the boards. Continue locking boards to create one long row against the starting wall.

• 3

  Cut the boards using a circular saw or table saw in varying lengths to stagger the joints. Otherwise, all the boards will line up in a row and be less visually pleasing.

• 4

  Starting from left to right, tilt the board at a slight angle and insert the tongue of the new board into the groove side of the first row.

• 5

  Move the board toward the end joint and press down firmly to lock, pushing the board level with the floor. There should be a slight clicking sound when the board locks into place.

• 6

  If the board is a little tight and will not lock into place, put the tapping block against the groove side of the board and use the rubber mallet to tap it into place. Do not use the mallet directly on the board as it may damage the plank.

• 7

  Laying laminate flooring under doorframes can be a bit trickier. Put the board close to the finished position under the doorframe. Place the tapping block against the groove side of the board and tap the board into place. This may require more force with the mallet to lock the board into place. However, be careful not to use too much force or you might damage the board.