Watch an Overview Video

Buy Flooring and Let It Acclimate

Buy 10 percent more flooring than you think you need in case of mistakes.

Tip: Laminate boards can go over just about any floor except carpet.

Let boards acclimate to installation space for 48 hours.

Level Floor and Remove Molding

Fill low spots in current floor with leveling compound.

Remove existing molding carefully and you can use it again.

Tip: Duct tape on your pry bar will cushion the molding against dents.

Install Underlayment and Vapor Barrier

If flooring doesn't have pre-attached padding, install foam underlayment to buffer sound.

Tape seams of underlayment with duct tape.

Tip: If floor is concrete, add vapor barrier.

Install Boards and Nail Molding to Wall

Pull boards from several boxes during installation to even out color variations.

Stagger lengths of end boards so seams don't line up.

Tip: Cut boards with good side up to prevent splintering and tearing.

For a snug fit, use a pull bar and mallet to tap boards together.

Nail molding to wall, not to floor.