Laying laminate flooring in a room that is already furnished can be a challenging task, but it is possible with careful planning and the right techniques. This approach can save time, effort, and the hassle of moving heavy furniture. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to lay laminate flooring with furniture in the room, focusing on practical methods to protect existing items and achieve a professional finish without a full room evacuation.
| Step | Key Action | Tools/Materials Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Clear minimal space and protect furniture | Protective covers, sliders, tape |
| Furniture Lifting or Sliding | Use sliders or lifting techniques | Furniture sliders, lifting straps |
| Flooring Installation | Install laminate with access to spaces | Laminate planks, underlayment, saw, spacers |
| Finishing Touches | Install trims and reposition furniture | Baseboards, quarter rounds, hammer, nails |
Preparing the Room and Furniture for Laminate Flooring Installation
Preparation is critical when laying laminate flooring with furniture in the room. Start by assessing what furniture can be removed or minimally moved to create workspace. Use protective covers or moving blankets to shield furniture from scratches and dust. Place furniture sliders under each item intended to stay in the room to facilitate movement.
Removing smaller objects, like lamps, rugs, and accessories, will prevent damage and create ease of access. It is also important to protect walls and door frames, as maneuvering around furniture increases the chance of accidental damage. Clear a perimeter around the area you intend to install flooring first to streamline the workflow.
Techniques for Moving Furniture Safely During Flooring Installation
Lifting heavy furniture without causing damage is possible with the right tools. Furniture sliders, typically made of nylon or felt, reduce friction and allow heavy items to glide over floors without scratching. Place sliders under each leg or corner of the furniture and gently slide it to an area outside the installation zone or partially lift it for flooring placement.
Another method is the use of moving straps or lifting aids, which provide ergonomic support and help distribute weight evenly. This approach minimizes strain on the installer and reduces risk to the furniture. In cases where furniture is too heavy to move, installing floating laminate flooring around the base may be an alternative, but this must be planned carefully for aesthetics and stability.
Installing Laminate Flooring Around Furniture
When furniture cannot be fully removed, laminate planks can be laid in sections. Begin installation from the most accessible wall or corner and proceed towards the furniture. Leave expansion gaps between the flooring and furniture bases to accommodate natural expansion and prevent buckling.
Use an underlayment designed for floating floors to reduce noise and provide moisture barrier benefits. Cutting planks precisely around furniture legs or built-in structures requires accurate measurement and sometimes custom-cut pieces. Invest in a quality laminate saw or jigsaw to make smooth cuts that fit tight around furniture.
Finishing Touches and Repositioning Furniture
After the laminate flooring is laid, it’s essential to install baseboards or quarter-round moldings to cover expansion gaps and provide a finished look. Use finishing nails and a hammer or nail gun carefully to avoid damage to the new floor.
Reposition the furniture delicately, ideally on new furniture sliders to protect the newly installed flooring. Recheck the floor for any loose planks and ensure all sections are securely clicked together. Finally, maintain the laminate floor by using felt pads under furniture legs and regularly cleaning to retain its appearance and durability.