Never jump into a home remodeling project without proper planning. The success of a do it yourself effort often depends on the care you take during the planning stage. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Drawing: Your planning needs to include a simple drawing of the room or rooms where you will be installing laminate flooring. Indicate where the entrances are located, as well as all cabinets or cupboards.
Measurements: Take careful measurements of the rooms and if possible ask your spouse or a friend to double check these. Allow for cabinets and cupboards, or appliances.
Transition: Make notes about the transition from these rooms to adjoining rooms, say from tile to carpet for example. You will need to keep the transitions in mind when choosing moldings.
Light Source: When installing laminate flooring, the direction in which natural light flows has a direct bearing on the installation process. Make a careful note of light sources, as they will either accentuate or soften the joints, depending on the direction of the installation.
Sub-Floor: You will need to know what the sub-floor of the room in which you will be installing the laminate flooring, consists of. It will also be helpful if you have an idea of the condition of the floor. You will need to take steps to make sure that it is absolutely even and smooth, before installing the new flooring. Moldings: Get a good idea of the moldings you will need in doorways, or around toe-kicks, tubs or basins. Every manufacturer stocks a line of decorative, colorcoordinated moldings with specific purposes. For instance, if the flooring will be extending to stairs, you will need to use a stair nosing.
Expectations: Ask yourself what you expect in terms of durability, before you make a flooring decision. If you have kids and pets, you will have to be more careful with your choice. The warranty of the flooring should give you an indication of the wearability. Just remember that most warranties don't cover scratches. Check with the supplier to ensure that you opt for a proven scratchresistant product. Don't buy an entry level, budget product and expect it to look great for 30 years! Be realistic.
Quotes: Remember to ask detailed questions about what is included in the quotes you are given. If installation is included, make sure that it also comes with removal of existing flooring if this will be the case, and preparation of the subfloor. You will also need to ascertain who will be responsible for the removal of your furniture.
Underlayment: Also determine if the underlayment is included and what the quality of the padding is. Buy the best you can afford.Tools: A flooring installation doesn't require expensive tools. Nevertheless, make sure that you have all the tools you will need during the installation, at hand.
Warranty: Double check that you comply with what is stipulated in the warranty conditions as far as installation and maintenance is concerned. If you deviate from the directions, you may void your warranty.
Get every detail of the quote and instructions in writing, while at the supplier.