Did you know improper prep is one of the top reasons new flooring fails early? Before the first plank goes down, there’s a lot you should do to set the stage for success. If you’re planning to choose laminate floor installation services in Seminole FL, prepping your space right can save you time, money, and frustration. Let’s break it all down in simple steps so you’re 100% ready when the crew arrives.
1. Know What to Expect From Laminate Floor Installation Services in Seminole FL
Before you lift a finger, understand what the installers will handle—and what’s on you. Most pros don’t move heavy furniture, remove old floors, or prep uneven subfloors unless agreed upon.
That’s why communication matters. Talk with your installer ahead of time about what they’ll do. Ask questions like:
- Will they need the room empty?
- Do they handle trim removal?
- Who takes care of trash cleanup?
Even if you’re hiring laminate floor installation services, your role starts before the tools come out. A little planning keeps things running on schedule.
2. Clear the Room
Start by removing all furniture, rugs, and personal items. Don’t leave it for the last minute—rushing causes damage. Make sure to:
- Take out tables, chairs, and lamps.
- Remove artwork and electronics.
- Clear off shelves and window sills.
You should also unplug and store electronics safely. Even the most careful team can bump things. And don’t forget closet floors—yes, they’re part of the job too.
Once everything’s out, give the floor a quick sweep. A clean space makes the next steps easier.
3. Remove Old Flooring (If Needed)
Some flooring can stay under the laminate. Others need to go.
Here’s what you might deal with:
- Carpet: Almost always needs to come up. So do the tack strips and staples.
- Tile: Can sometimes stay if it’s flat and stable.
- Vinyl or Linoleum: Might be fine, but loose or bubbled spots must be removed.
If you’re not sure what’s underneath or if it’s okay to keep it, check with your installer. With laminate floor installation services in Seminole FL, inspect the base layers before work begins. That way, they can avoid surprises that slow down the job.
4. Check for Moisture or Damage
Moisture is the enemy of laminate. Even the best floor won’t last if the subfloor has water issues.
Before your install date:
- Check for musty smells or soft spots.
- Look near doors, windows, or sinks for signs of leaks.
- Use a moisture meter if you’re unsure.
Too much moisture can lead to swelling and gaps later. That’s why professional installers often test the floor as part of laminate floor installation. If there’s a problem, it should be fixed before anything else.
5. Prep the Subfloor (With Bullet Points)
Laminate needs a flat, solid base. Here’s what to check:
- Flatness: The floor should be level within 3/16 inch over 10 feet.
- Clean Surface: No dust, glue, or paint.
- Solid Base: No squeaks or loose boards.
- No Major Cracks: Fill large gaps or holes.
When your subfloor isn’t flat, using a self-leveling compound could be beneficial. Additionally, it may provide the necessary support for a smoother surface. To address squeaky spots in wood subfloors, you should screw them down. Consequently, this will help eliminate the noise. Make sure not to skip this step; therefore, it significantly impacts how your floor feels and looks.
6. Remove or Adjust Baseboards and Trim
You’ll get a cleaner finish if baseboards are removed before installation. That way, the laminate can slide under slightly, hiding expansion gaps.
However, if removing trim isn’t possible:
- Undercut door frames and moldings so the laminate fits snugly.
- Install quarter-round trim after to hide the edges.
Moreover, laminate floor installation services in Seminole FL include trim work or offer it as an add-on. Still, it’s smart to ask ahead of time. Trim details can make or break how professional your new floor looks.
7. Plan Around Doors and Thresholds (With Bullet Points)
Doors and entryways need extra care. They’re often overlooked during prep.
Make sure to:
- Remove thresholds before the install.
- Check door clearance; you may need to shave the bottom.
- Use transitions between rooms to separate flooring types.
- Tape off adjacent areas to keep dust contained.
If a door won’t open after new floors go in, it’ll have to be trimmed. That’s something to plan for early—not during the final hour.
8. Set the Right Temperature
Laminate flooring expands and contracts with temperature and humidity. That’s why installers recommend letting the planks sit in your home for 48 hours before the job starts.
Keep the room between 65–85°F with normal humidity. Don’t turn off the AC or heater right before the install day. Instead, keep the temperature steady. This helps prevent gaps or buckling later.
Also, laminate floor installation services in Seminole FL, many crews will check that the flooring has been acclimated properly. It’s a small step with big long-term effects.
Conclusion: A Little Prep Goes a Long Way
Getting your space ready doesn’t take fancy tools or expert skills—just some planning and a few days of effort. Clearing out furniture, fixing subfloors, and checking for damage can make your floor last much longer.
If you’re hiring a professional team at Given Flooring LLC, give them a great head start. A well-prepped room helps them do their best work—and gets you a floor you’ll love.
Taking these steps makes the whole process smoother from start to finish. And that means you get to enjoy your new floors faster, with fewer surprises along the way.