Laminate flooring is a popular and cost-effective option for home and commercial flooring. While installation of laminate flooring is relatively easy, it is essential to plan ahead to minimize waste and reduce costs. Here are some tips to help you cut waste while installing laminate flooring.
- Measure the Room Accurately: Before purchasing laminate flooring, measure the room accurately to determine the exact amount of flooring required. This will help you avoid purchasing too much or too little flooring, which can result in waste and additional costs.
- Order the Right Amount of Flooring: Once you have measured the room, order the correct amount of laminate flooring. Be sure to account for overage and waste, as laminate flooring is usually sold in packages and may not be returnable if you purchase too much. A general rule of thumb is to add 5-10% to your total square footage to account for waste and cutting.
- In an average installation, approximately 7% to 10% of the total area to be covered will be wasted for several reasons, typically cuts, planks damaged during installation, or errors.
- Cut Pieces to Size: When installing laminate flooring, it is necessary to cut pieces to size to fit around doorways, corners, and other obstacles. Careful cutting of pieces can help minimize waste, so it’s important to take the time to measure and mark pieces accurately before cutting. Using a cutting guide can also help you make precise cuts and minimize waste.
- Plan the Layout: Before installing the laminate flooring, plan the layout and make a diagram. This will help you determine the best way to lay the flooring and minimize waste. For example, you may be able to use the off-cuts from one piece to start the next row, reducing the amount of waste.
- Use a Spacer: When installing laminate flooring, it’s important to use a spacer between the flooring and the wall. This will help you maintain a consistent gap and allow for expansion and contraction of the flooring. The spacer can also be used to determine the correct length of the final row, reducing the amount of waste.
- Save Off-Cuts: It is a good idea to save off-cuts and scraps of laminate flooring, as they can be used for future repairs or to fill in gaps in other areas. You can also donate them to schools, community centers, or local arts and craft groups.
- Hire a Professional: If you’re not confident in your ability to install laminate flooring, consider hiring a professional. A professional flooring installer will have the experience and tools to minimize waste and ensure a high-quality installation.
In conclusion, by measuring the room accurately, ordering the right amount of flooring, cutting pieces to size, planning the layout, using a spacer, saving off-cuts, and hiring a professional, you can minimize waste and reduce costs while installing laminate flooring. By following these tips, you can ensure that your laminate flooring installation is not only beautiful but also cost-effective.