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  • Installing the Base Molding and Floor-Care Tips
  • From "Floors, Doors & Windows"
    episode DFDW-101


    PHOTO

    Hosts Jay Baker and Scott Branscom show how to install molding and give tips on floor care in this final segment of DIY's Floors, Doors and Windows workshop.
    Materials:

    Laminate flooring
    Pullbar
    Tapping block
    Spacer blocks
    Underlayment
    Jigsaw
    Miter saw
    Baseboard
    Finish nailer
    Standard carpentry tools: hammer, tape measure, etc.
    advertisement


    PHOTO

    Figure A
    PHOTO

    Figure B

    • The moldings will make the floor come to life. There is a baseboard and transition molding. On the baseboard be sure and find the studs if you are going to nail it, or you can glue it.

    • Try to install pieces at long as possible, but if you need to install shorter pieces, use a miter saw and cut the molding to a 45-degree angle.

    • For a clean look, you should miter cut the moldings that go into the corners.

    • The baseboard is then glued or nailed into place (figure A). When nailing the baseboard, it best to hit the wall studs. In most newer homes, the studs are 16 inches on center. In older homes, they may be 24" on center.

    • Use a furniture finishing stick on the nail holes and where the seams are (figure B) to cover the marks up and give it a finished look

    • When you are cleaning your floor, look at your manufacturer's directions. They will recommend certain cleaning products.

    • Remember that laminate floors means several layers of wood put together. Water can damage it severally. Any water that may be spilled on it needs to be cleaned up quickly. You want to try and avoid any moisture on these floors.

    • If you drop heavy objects on the floor and gouge it, you can take some putty and put it in with a putty knife and scrape it.

    • When nailing, it is best if you're hitting the wall studs. In most newer homes, the studs will be sixteen inches on center, but in this older home, they're 24" on center.


    RESOURCES :

    Quick-Step Flooring
    Website: www.quick-step.com

    Flooring Projects and Techniques
    0865736790
    Cy DeCosse Inc.
    (January 1997)

    To order this title from Amazon, click here.

    Creative Publishing International

    Flooring 1-2-3: Expert Advice on Design, Installation and Repair
    0696215888
    The Home Depot
    (June 2003)

    To order this title from Amazon, click here.

    The Home Depot

  • ALSO IN THIS EPISODE: