How Long Does Laminate Flooring Installation Take? What to Expect

• Laminate flooring is a popular choice for homeowners due to its affordability, durability, and aesthetic appeal. If you’re planning to install laminate flooring in your home, one of the most common questions you might have is, “How long will the installation take?” While the exact timeline can vary depending on several factors, understanding the process and what to expect can help you plan your project efficiently.

Typical Timeframe for Laminate Flooring Installation

• On average, installing laminate flooring in a standard-sized room (approximately 12×12 feet) takes 1-3 days. However, this estimate depends on various factors, such as:
  1. The condition of the subfloor.
  2. The size and layout of the space.
  3. The skill level of the installer.
  4. Additional tasks like removing old flooring or moving furniture.
• For professional installers, the process is typically faster, with some projects completed in a single day. DIY installations may take longer, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the tools and techniques involved.

Factors That Affect Installation Time

• 1. Room Size
     • Larger spaces require more time due to the increased amount of material and labor needed.
     • Smaller rooms with tight corners or irregular shapes can also take longer due to the precision required for cutting and fitting the boards.
  2. Preparation Work
     • Subfloor Preparation: If the subfloor is uneven, cracked, or damaged, additional time will be needed to level or repair it before installation.
     • Old Flooring Removal: Removing existing carpet, tile, or hardwood can add several hours or even days, depending on the material and difficulty of removal.
     • Furniture Moving: Clearing the space of furniture and appliances is an essential step that can add time to the project.
  3. Installation Method
     • Laminate flooring often uses a click-and-lock system, which is relatively quick and easy to install compared to glue-down or nail-down methods.
     • However, if you choose a more complex installation pattern, such as diagonal or herringbone, expect the process to take longer due to the additional cuts and measurements required.
  4. Skill Level
     • Professional installers are highly efficient and experienced, allowing them to complete the job faster than a DIYer.
     • If you’re tackling the project yourself, you’ll need extra time for measuring, cutting, and troubleshooting any issues that arise.
  5. Additional Tasks
     • Installing underlayment, baseboards, or trim can add time to the project.
     • Customizations, such as transitions between rooms or cutting around obstacles like vents and door frames, require careful attention and can slow down progress.

Step-by-Step Timeline for Laminate Flooring Installation

• My Local Toolbox has provided us with a timeline for your laminate flooring project:
  1. Preparation (1-2 Days)
     • Furniture Removal: Move all furniture and appliances out of the room to create a clear workspace.
     • Floor Removal: If you have old flooring that needs to be taken out, this step can take several hours to a full day. For example, removing glued-down tile or hardwood is more time-consuming than pulling up carpet.
     • Subfloor Inspection and Repair: Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Repairs, if necessary, can add a day or more to the timeline.
  2. Acclimation (1-3 Days)
     • Laminate flooring should be acclimated to the room’s temperature and humidity for 48-72 hours before installation. During this time, the boards are left in their packaging and stored in the room where they will be installed. This step is crucial to prevent warping or buckling after installation.
  3. Installation (1-2 Days)
     • Underlayment Installation: If your laminate flooring requires an underlayment, laying it down takes 1-2 hours for a standard-sized room.
     • Laying the Flooring: Installing laminate planks with a click-and-lock system is relatively quick. Experienced installers can complete a 12×12 room in about 4-6 hours, while DIYers may need a full day.
     • Cuts and Adjustments: Cutting boards to fit edges, corners, and irregular spaces takes additional time. More intricate cuts may add several hours to the process.
  4. Finishing Touches (1 Day)
     • Baseboards and Trim: Reinstalling or adding new baseboards and trim to cover expansion gaps typically takes a few hours.
     • Clean-Up: Vacuuming, disposing of old flooring materials, and putting furniture back in place can take another couple of hours.

What to Expect During the Installation Process

• 1. Noise and Dust
     Cutting laminate planks and removing old flooring can create noise and dust. While most professionals use tools to minimize the mess, it’s a good idea to cover nearby furniture or other areas of the home to keep them clean.
  2. Limited Room Access
     During installation, the room will be off-limits. If the flooring is being installed in a high-traffic area like the kitchen or living room, plan alternative routes or arrangements.
  3. Potential Delays
     Unexpected issues, such as uneven subfloors, damaged materials, or missing tools, can delay the project. Preparing in advance and working with experienced installers can help minimize setbacks.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

• 1. DIY Installation: If you’re handy and enjoy tackling home improvement projects, installing laminate flooring yourself can be a rewarding experience. However, it requires patience, attention to detail, and time. Expect the process to take 2-3 days for a beginner.
  2. Professional Installation: Hiring a professional ensures a faster, more efficient installation with minimal errors. They have the tools and expertise to handle tricky areas and complete the project within 1-2 days.

Tips to Speed Up the Installation Process

• 1. Prepare the Space Ahead of Time: Remove all furniture, old flooring, and debris before starting the project.
  2. Inspect Materials: Ensure all flooring materials, tools, and accessories are ready and in good condition.
  3. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Adhere to the instructions provided with your laminate flooring to avoid mistakes.
  4. Work with Professionals: For faster results and a polished finish, hire experienced installers.

Final Thoughts