Laminate flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. It is an excellent option for high-traffic areas such as kitchens, living rooms, and entryways. If you have laminate flooring in your kitchen and are looking to install it under your refrigerator, you may be wondering how to go about it. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of installing laminate under your refrigerator, ensuring a seamless and professional-looking finish.
Gathering the Necessary Materials
Before we dive into the installation process, it is important to gather all the necessary materials. This will help streamline the installation process and ensure that you have everything you need at your disposal. Here is a list of materials you will require:
1. Laminate flooring
Choose the laminate flooring that matches your existing kitchen flooring. Measure the area under your refrigerator to determine the amount of laminate flooring needed.
2. Underlayment
Underlayment is a thin foam or plastic material that provides cushioning and sound absorption. It helps to create a moisture barrier and smooth out any imperfections in the subfloor.
3. Tape measure
A tape measure is essential for accurately measuring the area under the refrigerator and ensuring a proper fit.
4. Circular saw or jigsaw
You will need a circular saw or a jigsaw to cut the laminate flooring to the desired size and shape.
5. Flooring spacers
Flooring spacers are used to maintain a small gap between the flooring and the wall, allowing the laminate to expand and contract with temperature and humidity changes.
6. Carpenter’s square
A carpenter’s square is a useful tool for ensuring precise cuts and angles.
7. Tapping block and hammer
A tapping block and hammer are necessary for gently tapping the laminate planks into place without damaging the floor.
8. Threshold molding
Threshold molding is used to create a smooth transition between the laminate flooring and other flooring materials or adjacent rooms.
Now that you have gathered all the necessary materials, let’s move on to the installation process.
Preparing the Area
Before installing laminate under your refrigerator, you need to prepare the area properly. Here is what you should do:
1. Move the refrigerator
Carefully move the refrigerator away from the wall, ensuring that you do not damage the kitchen flooring or the appliance itself. If the refrigerator has a water line connection, make sure to turn off the water supply and disconnect it before moving the appliance.
2. Clean the subfloor
Thoroughly clean the area where the laminate will be installed. Remove any debris, dust, or dirt, ensuring a clean and smooth surface.
3. Test-fit the laminate planks
Place a few laminate planks, along with the underlayment, underneath the refrigerator to test the fit. This will help determine if any adjustments need to be made before installation.
Installing Laminate Under the Refrigerator
Now that the area is properly prepared, it’s time to start installing the laminate under your refrigerator. Follow these step-by-step instructions:
1. Install the underlayment
Begin by rolling out the underlayment across the subfloor, trimming the excess along the edges. Use duct tape to connect multiple pieces of underlayment, ensuring a seamless transition.
2. Measure and cut the laminate planks
Measure the length and width required for the laminate planks to fit under your refrigerator. Using a circular saw or jigsaw, carefully cut the planks to the desired size, ensuring precise cuts.
3. Install the laminate planks
Starting from one corner, lay the first plank along the wall, leaving a small gap between the plank and the wall using flooring spacers. Connect subsequent planks by aligning the tongue and groove edges, locking them into place. Continue installing the planks until the area under the refrigerator is covered.
4. Tap the planks into place
Using a tapping block and hammer, gently tap the installed planks to ensure a secure and tight fit. Be careful not to damage the laminate surface while doing so.
5. Trim excess laminate
Once all the planks are installed, carefully trim any excess laminate along the edges using a circular saw or jigsaw. This will ensure a clean and professional-looking finish.
Completing the Installation
You’re almost done with the installation process. Here are the final steps to complete the installation of laminate under your refrigerator:
1. Reinstall the refrigerator
Move the refrigerator back into its original position, taking care not to damage the newly installed laminate flooring. If the refrigerator has wheels, make sure they are clean before rolling it back into place.
2. Install threshold molding
To create a smooth transition between the laminate flooring and the adjacent room or other flooring types, install threshold molding. Measure and cut the threshold molding to fit along the edge of the laminate flooring, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Test the refrigerator
Once everything is installed, test the refrigerator to ensure it is working properly. Make sure there are no leaks from the water line if applicable.
4. Clean and maintain
Regularly clean and maintain your laminate flooring to keep it looking its best. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning products and techniques.
Installing laminate under your refrigerator may seem like a daunting task, but by following this step-by-step guide, you can achieve professional-looking results. With the proper materials, preparation, and installation techniques, you can enjoy the beauty and durability of laminate flooring in your kitchen for years to come. Happy installing!