3 Methods to Install Laminate Flooring

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that the right flooring can make or break a room. Laminate flooring has earned its stripes as a durable, stylish, and budget-friendly option, and it’s no wonder homeowners and DIY enthusiasts alike are flocking to it. But here’s the kicker: even the best laminate can turn into a headache if it’s not installed properly.

Over time, I’ve tried my hand at more than a few floors, and let me tell you—there’s more than one way to skin a cat when it comes to laying laminate. Some methods are easier on your wallet, some are tougher but last longer, and some fall somewhere in between.

In this post, I’m going to walk you through three main methods to install laminate flooring: the ever-popular floating installation, the rock-solid glue-down method, and the newer pre-attached underlayment approach. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll know which method fits your space, your budget, and your skill level—so you can dive in without breaking a sweat.

Floating Installation (Click-Lock System)

When it comes to installing laminate flooring, the floating method, also known as the click-lock system, is the one that makes life a whole lot easier for DIYers like me. I’ve walked this path more times than I can count, and I can tell you—this method is a real lifesaver if you want a professional-looking floor without calling in the cavalry.

The floating installation works like magic: the planks snap together like puzzle pieces, and they “float” above your subfloor rather than being glued or nailed down. This means you don’t have to wrestle with adhesives or deal with the headache of nails—just a little patience and some elbow grease.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prepare the Subfloor – First things first, make sure your subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Floating floors are forgiving, but uneven surfaces are the thorn in your side here. Small bumps or dips can cause gaps or creaks.
2. Lay the Underlayment – Most laminate requires an underlayment to provide cushioning, reduce noise, and act as a moisture barrier. Roll it out, cut it to size, and tape the seams if needed. This is one of those small steps that pays big dividends down the road.
3. Start Laying Planks – Begin along the longest wall, usually from left to right. Snap the planks together using the click-lock mechanism. Keep an expansion gap of about 1/4 inch around the edges—this allows the floor to “breathe” as temperatures and humidity change.
4. Cutting Planks – When you reach the end of a row, measure and cut planks to fit. A simple laminate cutter or saw works wonders. Remember, measure twice, cut once—that old chestnut exists for a reason!
5. Continue Row by Row – Stagger the seams for a more natural look and better structural stability. Work your way across the room until you’ve covered the entire floor.
6. Finishing Touches – Install baseboards or quarter-round molding to cover the expansion gaps. Step back and admire your handiwork—you’ve just brought a touch of class to your space!

Pros of Floating Installation:

• Super DIY-friendly, even for first-timers.
• No glue, nails, or special tools required.
• Can be installed over most existing floors, including vinyl or plywood.
• Easy to repair—if a plank gets damaged, you can replace it without tearing up the whole floor.

Cons of Floating Installation:

• Can feel slightly “springy” underfoot compared to glued-down options.
• Not ideal for areas with high moisture, like bathrooms or basements prone to flooding.
• Less sound insulation than glued or pre-attached underlayment systems.

In my experience, floating laminate floors are the bread and butter of modern DIY projects. They strike the perfect balance between affordability, ease, and durability. If you want to roll up your sleeves and transform your space without breaking the bank, this is where you’ll want to start.

Glue-Down Installation

If floating floors are the easy-going cousin of laminate flooring, then glue-down installation is the dependable, steady one—you know, the type that really stands its ground. I’ve rolled up my sleeves for this method more than a few times, and while it’s a bit more labor-intensive, the payoff is a floor that feels solid as a rock and lasts for years.

The glue-down method, as the name suggests, involves adhering each plank directly to the subfloor using a strong adhesive. This creates a super stable floor that won’t shift or squeak over time, making it a great option for high-traffic areas, offices, or rooms where you want that “built-in” feel.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prepare the Subfloor – Just like with floating floors, preparation is half the battle. Your subfloor must be clean, level, and completely dry. Any bumps, dust, or debris are going to be a thorn in your side if skipped.
2. Select the Right Adhesive – Not all glues are created equal. Use a high-quality laminate adhesive recommended by the manufacturer. Spread it evenly with a trowel, following the instructions to a T.
3. Lay the Planks – Start at one wall and press each plank into the adhesive. Some adhesives allow for a short “open time,” giving you a few minutes to adjust the planks before they set. Measure twice, press once—this step is crucial.
4. Stagger the Seams – Just like in floating installation, staggering the seams gives your floor added stability and a more natural look.
5. Roll the Floor – Once a section is down, use a floor roller to ensure the planks bond evenly with the adhesive. Think of this as giving your floor a firm handshake—it seals the deal.
6. Allow to Cure – Patience is key. Most adhesives require 24–48 hours to fully cure, so hold off on walking on your beautiful new floor until it’s ready.

Pros of Glue-Down Installation:

• Extremely stable and solid underfoot—no springiness here.
• Better sound insulation compared to floating floors.
• Great for high-traffic areas or commercial spaces.
• Can be used in rooms where floating floors might not be ideal.

Cons of Glue-Down Installation:

• More time-consuming and labor-intensive.
• Difficult to replace individual planks if damaged.
• Requires careful preparation and precision to avoid mistakes.
• Not very DIY-friendly for beginners without some practice.

From my experience, glue-down laminate is the method to choose when you want your floor to feel permanent and dependable. Sure, it takes a bit more elbow grease, but the result is a polished, solid surface that will stand the test of time. When it comes to high-traffic rooms, this is where I’d bet my bottom dollar.

Pre-Attached Underlayment / Direct Glue Options

If floating floors are the easy-going cousin and glue-down is the dependable one, then laminate with pre-attached underlayment is the modern, “best of both worlds” approach. I like to think of it as the shortcut that doesn’t cut corners—you get speed without sacrificing quality.

Some laminate planks now come with underlayment already attached to the bottom. This built-in layer provides cushioning, sound absorption, and moisture resistance, so you can skip rolling out a separate underlayment altogether. For someone like me who’s always racing against the clock, this is a real game-changer.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prep Your Subfloor – Even with pre-attached underlayment, you can’t skip this step. Make sure the subfloor is clean, level, and dry. It’s like setting a solid foundation before building a house—everything else depends on it.
2. Snap or Glue – Depending on the product, some planks click together like floating floors, while others may require a light glue along the seams. Either way, you’re saving time and fuss compared to traditional glue-down installation.
3. Stagger Seams – As with the other methods, staggering the seams is key for stability and a natural look. Don’t let your eye be fooled—small shifts make a big difference in the long run.
4. Trim and Fit – Measure and cut planks to fit edges, doorways, and corners. Pre-attached underlayment sometimes makes cuts slightly trickier, but it’s nothing a sharp saw can’t handle.
5. Finishing Touches – Install baseboards or quarter-round molding to hide expansion gaps. Step back and admire—it’s amazing how something that installs so quickly can look this polished.

Pros of Pre-Attached Underlayment Installation:

• Fast and easy—perfect for DIYers or quick renovations.
• Built-in soundproofing and cushioning.
• No need to buy or lay a separate underlayment.
• Can be installed over most existing subfloors.

Cons of Pre-Attached Underlayment Installation:

• Usually more expensive than standard laminate planks.
• Replacement of damaged planks can be tricky.
• Limited customization—can’t swap underlayment type if you need extra moisture protection or insulation.

In my experience, pre-attached underlayment laminate is a fantastic middle ground. It’s perfect for anyone who wants the ease of floating floors but with the extra comfort and sound reduction of underlayment built right in. When I want to get a room looking spick-and-span without sweating the small stuff, this is my go-to method.

Comparing the Methods

Now that we’ve walked through the three main ways to install laminate flooring, it’s time to put them side by side and separate the wheat from the chaff. Choosing the right method isn’t just about what looks good—it’s about your room, budget, lifestyle, and DIY confidence.

Here’s my take after more floors than I can count:

• Floating installation is the jack-of-all-trades if you want ease, flexibility, and a floor you can tackle on a weekend. Just mind the moisture—it’s not a fan of wet basements.
• Glue-down installation is your heavy-hitter. If you want a floor that’s rock-solid and built to last, this is the method to bet your bottom dollar on—but be ready to roll up your sleeves.
• Pre-attached underlayment laminate hits the sweet spot. Quick, comfortable, and stylish, it’s perfect if you want speed without compromising on comfort or quality.

At the end of the day, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Pick the method that matches your space and skill level, and you’ll have a floor that looks sharp and performs beautifully for years to come. Like I always say, measure twice, choose wisely, and don’t cut corners—your future self will thank you.

Conclusion

When it comes to laminate flooring, choosing the right installation method is half the battle. Each approach—floating, glue-down, or pre-attached underlayment—has its own perks and pitfalls, and the best choice really comes down to your room, your budget, and your DIY comfort level.

From my experience, floating floors are perfect for quick, weekend DIY projects; glue-down installations are rock-solid and built to last; and pre-attached underlayment laminate is a smart middle ground that saves time without cutting corners. No matter which method you choose, a little patience, careful measurement, and attention to detail go a long way toward a floor that looks great and lasts for years.

So roll up your sleeves, put your best foot forward, and get ready to transform your space—because a properly installed laminate floor isn’t just a surface under your feet, it’s the foundation of style, comfort, and durability in your home.