How to Install Pergo Laminate Flooring

So you want a Pergo floor, but now you need help installing it. This brief tutorial on installing laminate flooring lays out a step-by-step pathway for your home improvement adventure. You can purchase Pergo at any Denver wholesale flooring store, or home improvement center.

Materials:
Pergo Laminate Flooring
Laminate Edging
Saw (jigsaws and radial arm saws work best)
Measuring Tape
Hammer
Tapping Block
Spacers
Pull Bar
Wood Glue (optional)

Step 1: First, you will need to determine the amount of Pergo flooring and edging you will need for the area you are covering. Multiply the length by the width of the selected area, and this will give you the square footage of Pergo that you'll need. Measure only the sides of the flooring that make contact with carpet, or separate rooms for your edging. Always plan on purchasing more flooring than you think you will need. Chances are mistakes will be made, and this way, unnecessary trips to the store will be avoided.

Step 2: Determine which direction you would like to lay your Pergo planks. Most of the time, it is easier to lay the planks lengthwise in the room, but it is a matter of personal preference. If you do lay the planks width-wise to the room, be aware of the increased amount of trimming that will take place. Also, allow extra space around the sides that need edging pieces (specific measurements for this will be provided in the individual boxes of Pergo and edging packages).

Step 3: Install the flooring underlay by laying it in strips that are touching, but not overlapping. Some Pergo or other laminate flooring has flooring underlay already attached to each individual plank; in this case, you can forego the separate installation of the underlay. The purpose of the underlay is to prevent the floor from making direct contact with the floor underneath; it also reduces noise and makes the floor generally softer.

Step 4: Start installing the first row with the tongue side of the boards facing the wall. Don't forget to insert spacers around the perimeter of the chosen area as you go, so there is some space for the boards to "breathe" and acclimate to hot and cold temperatures. Make sure you lock the short sides together first, and use the pull bar and hammer at one end to gently close any gaps. The spacer should keep you from moving the whole row too close to the wall.

Step 5: Proceed with the second row of Pergo, only using two-thirds of the first board so as to create a "staggered" effect. Also: make sure to cut the correct end of the board before trimming it, depending on whether you need the tongue or groove side to attach the rest of the boards in that row. Insert the long tongue side to the first row, and continue down the second row with full boards, while inserting the short tongues in first. Tap in the long tongue sides with the tapping block and hammer until you reach the last board. Trim as necessary.

Step 6: Proceed with the rest of the rows, and continue staggering each row to give it more of a real "hardwood" feel. After the last board is installed, install any necessary floor transitions (e.g. edging pieces), and re-install floor molding, heat registers and doors.

You are finished!