What To Know
- Use a nail gun or a hammer and nails to secure the edging strips to the subfloor.
- Make sure the nails or staples are countersunk below the surface of the edging strips to prevent them from causing any damage to the laminate flooring.
- Apply a protective finish, such as a sealant or varnish, to the edging strips to protect them from wear and tear.
Laminate flooring is a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability, affordability, and ease of installation. However, one aspect of laminate flooring that can be tricky is fitting the edging strips. Edging strips are used to cover the exposed edges of the laminate flooring and give it a finished look. If you’re wondering how to fit laminate floor edging strips, this comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure a professional-looking installation.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need:
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials:
- Laminate floor edging strips
- Tape measure
- Utility knife
- Pencil
- Hammer
- Pry bar
- Wood filler
- Sandpaper
- Vacuum cleaner
Step 1: Measuring and Cutting the Edging Strips
1. Measure the length of the area where you need to install the edging strips.
2. Cut the edging strips to the desired length using a utility knife and a straightedge.
3. Make sure the cuts are clean and straight to ensure a snug fit.
Step 2: Preparing the Subfloor
1. Ensure the subfloor is level and free of any debris or irregularities.
2. If there are any gaps or uneven areas, fill them with wood filler and let it dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Vacuum the subfloor thoroughly to remove any dust or particles.
Step 3: Installing the Edging Strips
1. Place the first edging strip along the edge of the laminate flooring, making sure it is flush with the wall or baseboard.
2. Use a hammer and a pry bar to gently tap the edging strip into place.
3. Continue installing the edging strips along the entire perimeter of the laminate flooring, ensuring they are tightly fitted together.
Step 4: Securing the Edging Strips
1. Use a nail gun or a hammer and nails to secure the edging strips to the subfloor.
2. Drive the nails or staples at an angle to ensure a strong hold.
3. Make sure the nails or staples are countersunk below the surface of the edging strips to prevent them from causing any damage to the laminate flooring.
Step 5: Filling Gaps and Finishing Touches
1. If there are any gaps between the edging strips and the laminate flooring, fill them with wood filler.
2. Let the wood filler dry completely and then sand it smooth using fine-grit sandpaper.
3. Vacuum the area to remove any dust or debris.
Step 6: Applying a Protective Finish
1. Apply a protective finish, such as a sealant or varnish, to the edging strips to protect them from wear and tear.
2. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying the protective finish.
Laminate Floor Edging Strips: A Finishing Touch
Laminate floor edging strips add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your laminate flooring installation. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can easily fit laminate floor edging strips like a pro and achieve a professional-looking finish that will enhance the overall appearance of your flooring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What type of edging strips should I use for my laminate flooring?
A: There are various types of edging strips available, including plastic, metal, and wood. Choose an edging strip that matches the style and color of your laminate flooring.
Q: How do I handle corners when installing edging strips?
A: To handle corners, you can either miter the edging strips or use corner pieces designed specifically for laminate flooring.
Q: Can I install edging strips on an uneven subfloor?
A: It’s important to have a level and even subfloor before installing edging strips. If the subfloor is uneven, you may need to level it using a self-leveling compound or a leveling kit.
