We are installing a laminate floor and are having problems getting the 2 pieces to fit together. It is a glueless tongue and grove. On the long side of 2 boards, they do not come down without forcing it. We angle it up to fit it together and the two pieces do not lay flat unless we use some force. The just remain in a V. The short end fits together fine. Has anyone had this happen? Do you need to use force? Is it possible all the boxes are defective? Thanks!!
2007-01-20 12:40:05 · 5 answers · asked by kc3 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Decorating & Remodeling
We did about 1400sq feet a few months ago. It can sometimes be hard to snap together. Try exerting force toward you as you bring the piece down to the floor. We also found a soft rubber mallet to be helpful in getting a tight fit when a small gap was left. My 5 year old had it down better that we did. You just need to find your groove! Good Luck!
2007-01-20 15:43:09 · answer #1 · answered by aussie 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You have to use a little force. The floor manufacturer should have tool that helps with that. It resembles a block with a groove. You insert the side of the plank into the groove, then tap the block with a hammer. You'll be suprised how easy it slips right together.
You'll also need the tool to pull in pieces against a wall. This is a metal piece with a lip. It hooks between the wall and the plank. Using the hammer, you tap on the inside end to pull the plank towards you. It will snap into place.
2007-01-20 12:50:21 · answer #2 · answered by Daniel A 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Not sure but I did find you a website that might be helpful. Take a break and check some of their suggestions out.
You sound a bit frustrated.
Log on and check them out, they even have a pro center and a message board. They were a big help to us when we installed the bathroom.
HGTV offers advise such as:
Installing Laminate Flooring
Install Laminate Floor
Installing Vinyl Floors
2007-01-20 13:03:28 · answer #3 · answered by Akkita 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your flooring probably isn't defective, you just need to get a tapping block from wherever you bought your flooring and tap towards the bottom of the 'V' the boards are forming it should get it to lay down. If you paid over 1.49 Sq. Ft. for your flooring than I would say it should probably go together better than what you're describing, and you should talk to the business you purchased it from.
2007-01-20 15:56:06 · answer #4 · answered by jamesflooring 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I installed a floor that the pieces had to "snap" in place - otherwise they would separate after they're installed. Maybe your not using enough pressure to get them flat. They should "snap" in place at some point.
2007-01-21 03:51:59 · answer #5 · answered by ? 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋