How to Install Hardwood Flooring in a Kitchen

Materials and Tools:

laminate flooring
transition fitting
carpet pad
roofing felt
scissors
finish nailer
tape measure
rubber mallet
miter saw

1. Follow these tips before installation:

• Use fold and lock laminate floor. Running the hardwood boards perpendicular to floor joists prevents them from sagging in the future.
  
• Leave a 3/8-inch gap between the walls and the flooring to aid in installation. You can cover this gap later with trim.
  
• Leave the hardwood flooring material in the house for 10 to 14 days to acclimate to the room's environment. This will limit the amount of natural expanding and contracting the flooring will go through in its lifetime.

2. If the original floor isn't level, use a self-leveling flooring system. Mix the self-leveling liquid and pour it in the part of the floor that dips. When the self leveler dries, begin on the hardwood flooring.

3. Roll out the 15-pound roofing felt as a moisture barrier to prevent water damage in the sub floor.

4. Start laying the composite flooring. The planks go down easily and just lock together.

Tip: Run an entire length along a wall first and note any cuts that may need to be made.

5. Stagger the boards to give them extra strength and beauty, tapping them in with a rubber mallet.

6. Install the transition piece using a finish nailer.