Yes, you can put laminate flooring next to hardwood. When installing laminate flooring near hardwood, it’s important to ensure that the surfaces are level and that any transitions between the two materials are smooth.
When installing the laminate, it is also important to properly seal the edges of the laminate flooring to protect the hardwood from moisture. To further protect the hardwood from moisture, it’s a good idea to install a moisture barrier between the two materials and at least 6 to 8 mil plastic sheeting works well for this.
Once the laminate flooring is installed, an expansion gap should be left between the two materials which will allow them to expand and contract individually if temperatures change. Lastly, it is important to ensure a smooth transition between the two materials and use matching trim to finish the installation.
What kind of flooring looks good next to hardwood?
When choosing a flooring material to go with hardwood, it is important to consider the effect that you would like the flooring to have. If you would like a classic look, it is best to choose a material that complements the style and color of your hardwood floor.
Laminate and luxury vinyl are both popular options in these cases as they are very durable and can be found in a variety of shades and finishes.
If you are looking for more of an eye-catching look, an area rug can be a great choice. A colorful rug will really bring out the warm tones of the hardwood floor and can be relatively inexpensive. Natural fiber rugs, such as jute and seagrass, are also popular options as they are softer and more luxurious underfoot.
Ceramic tile is also a popular choice with hardwood flooring, as it can create a modern aesthetic and is extremely durable. It is also very easy to clean and maintain. You can also choose to add a border of accent tiles to add an extra touch of flair.
Finally, if you are looking for something softer and homier, carpet can be a great option. So you can find one that best suits your personal style. In addition, you can choose to work with an area rug on top of the carpet to further define your space and add a pop of color.
Can you put two different wood floors next to each other?
Yes, you can put two different wood floors next to each other. It can be a great way to create visual interest in a room by using two different types and colors of wood. However, it is important to take some steps to ensure that the two different wood floors look good together.
Before installing the different wood floors, you should test to make sure that the colors are complementary and that the finishes are compatible. Additionally, it is important to create a transition between the two different wood floors to make sure that they blend together aesthetically.
This transition can be easily achieved by using a small strip of the same wood species or a decorative border of tile, marble, or other materials. If done correctly, the two wood floors will complement each other to create a unique and beautiful finish for any room.
Does vinyl plank flooring devalue a home?
No, vinyl plank flooring does not devalue a home. It is a low-cost and attractive flooring option that is becoming increasingly popular due to its durability, easy installation, and long-term savings over other flooring materials.
It is available in a wide selection of colors, styles, and finishes, making it a great way to update the look of a home without breaking the bank. Many homebuyers find the natural look and feel of vinyl flooring to be extremely appealing, and in fact, vinyl plank flooring can even increase the resale value of a home depending on the quality of the product and style chosen.
Overall, vinyl plank flooring is an excellent option for homeowners looking for a budget-friendly flooring solution that will stand the test of time.
Should flooring be the same throughout the house?
When it comes to flooring, there is no one-size-fits-all answer as to whether it should be the same throughout the house. The best flooring choice depends on budget, the overall style of the home, the type of environment the house is located in, and its level of use.
Generally, the flooring should be consistent throughout the home if the house has an overall theme or aesthetic. It doesn’t have to be the exact same flooring from room to room; often times, homeowners will choose a complementary but different flooring that follows the same color scheme throughout the home.
For example, you can choose hardwood flooring for one room and tile for another.
If you are on a tight budget, using the same type of flooring throughout the entire home will save money by allowing you to buy in bulk. If you choose tile or hardwood throughout the house, consider installing the same type everywhere to create a cohesive, unified look.
Finally, the use of the room should be a consideration when deciding what type of flooring to install. Kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways tend to experience more wear and tear, so more durable flooring such as tile or water-resistant hardwood is recommended.
In bedrooms, on the other hand, you may prefer a softer, more inviting material such as carpeting.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to go with the same flooring throughout the house or not is a personal one. There are pros and cons to both approaches, so it’s important to weigh the options and make the decision that factor’s in the whole picture.
How do you transition from LVT to hardwood?
Transitioning from LVT to hardwood requires planning, caution, and precision. Generally speaking, the biggest challenges in transitioning from LVT to hardwood are properly leveling the subfloor and ensuring a smooth, even transition between the two floors.
1. Begin by preparing the subfloor. Ensure that the subfloor is even, clean, and dry. Fill any holes or cracks with appropriate filler, and make sure the surface is perfectly flat and level.
2. Secure any existing LVT flooring to the subfloor. To do this, use a combination of nails and/or adhesive. Pay close attention to recommended installation instructions for both LVT flooring and the type of wood flooring that you are transitioning to.
3. Install your new hardwood flooring, being sure to leave a small expansion joint between the wood flooring and the existing LVT floor. This allows for any natural expansion and contraction of the wood in reaction to environmental conditions.
4. Install any transition pieces between the LVT and the new hardwood floor. This could include anything from a traditional T-molding or end cap, to something more custom and decorative.
5. Add a coat of sealer (if applicable) to the hardwood before bearing any furniture back into the room.
By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth, professional transition from LVT to hardwood in your home. Just keep in mind that attention to detail and precision is key.
Do I need to leave a gap with vinyl flooring?
Yes, you should leave a gap when installing vinyl flooring. This gap should be around 6 to 8 millimeters and should be sized according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The gap space acts as an expansion joint, allowing the flooring to move and contract due to temperature changes.
Without a gap, it’s possible that the vinyl can buckle or start to separate.
You should also leave a gap between any two pieces of vinyl flooring that were not manufactured as a single piece. This can also be referred to as a spline, and should be around 1/4 inch. This gap is necessary to ensure a professional-looking install and to ensure that the vinyl pieces are properly connected.
Finally, you should always leave a gap at the wall, known as a perimeter gap. This gap should be around 6-8 millimeters and can be filled with a baseboard or shoe molding afterwards.
Do and don’ts for vinyl flooring?
Do’s:
1. Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris.
2. Clean up any spilt liquid immediately with a damp cloth.
3. Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner and warm water to mop your floor.
4. Apply cleaners to the mop and not directly to the floor.
5. For tougher stains, use the recommended cleaners for your flooring.
6. Periodically use wax or polish to keep the floor looking its best.
7. Place protective mats in high traffic areas to reduce wear and tear.
Don’ts:
1. Don’t drag furniture, appliances, or other heavy objects across the floor.
2. Don’t use abrasive or harsh cleaners, as they can damage the floor.
3. Don’t wet mop the floor.
4. Don’t use detergents, waxes, furniture cleaners, bleach, or ammonia-based products on your floor.
5. Don’t use wax over a surface sealant, as it can cause the sealant to break down.
6. Don’t use a steam or steam mop to clean the floor.
7. Don’t wear shoes with spikes or cleats on your floor.
Should you install vinyl plank flooring before or after cabinets?
Whether you install your vinyl plank flooring before or after you install your cabinets depends largely on the installation method of the flooring. If you are using a floating floor installation, then the flooring should be laid before the cabinets because the cabinets will go directly over the top of the planks.
This type of installation also offers the added bonus of allowing easier access to any cabinets needing repair or adjustments in the future.
On the other hand, if you are gluing down your flooring planks, then it is best to install the cabinets first and then the flooring to reduce the risk of damaging the finished floor while installing the cabinets.
When gluing flooring, it is important to let the adhesive dry properly before installing the cabinets over the top. This will reduce the risk of damage to the vinyl planks and may even save you time and money in the long run.
Where should you not put laminate flooring?
Laminate flooring should not be installed in rooms where there is a lot of moisture or humidity, such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements. Areas such as these can warp or buckle the material due to standing water or excessive dampness.
Laminate flooring should also not be placed in areas of extreme temperature, such as near fireplaces or other direct-heat sources, as this can cause the material to expand and contract. Installing laminate flooring in a garage can also be a bad idea due to fluctuations in temperature and potential contact with car fluids, chemicals, and other liquids.
Is it OK to put laminate flooring in a kitchen?
Yes, it is generally safe to install laminate flooring in a kitchen. Laminate flooring is a popular and attractive option due to its versatility and affordability. Laminate flooring is extremely durable, which makes it an ideal choice for a kitchen, as it can withstand frequent spills, foot traffic, and regular cleaning.
Furthermore, laminate flooring comes in a variety of colors and styles so you can easily find something that compliments the style of your kitchen. Additionally, laminate flooring is also easy to maintain and can be quickly wiped and wiped down with a damp cloth to keep it looking clean and new.
However, it is important to keep in mind that there may be some issues when installing laminate flooring in a kitchen, such as potential moisture issues which may need to be addressed prior to installation.
Additionally, if there is a risk of spillages, it is recommended to use a high-quality sealant on the joints of the laminate planks to prevent water damage.
Does laminate flooring go under or around a toilet?
When installing laminate flooring around a toilet, it is important to start with a layout to ensure that one side of the toilet will have the laminate boards butting up against it. This is important to avoid having large gaps that can collect debris and making cleaning more difficult.
When laying the laminate flooring, it is best to go all the way around the toilet, stopping short of the flange. Because laminate flooring is thin and may not be able to span over the flange, it is important to cut out a section for the flange, so the floor does not buckle when the toilet is installed.
This section should be the same size as the flange and should be made from a solid, rigid material, such as plywood, to ensure that the floor is not damaged when the toilet is being installed. It is also important to ensure that the flange is properly secured to the floor so that it does not come loose during use.
Once the flange is properly secured, the laminate should be placed over the floor, either using underlayment or with a thin bead of adhesive, depending on the type of laminate you have selected. The laminate should fit snugly against the subfloor or underlayment and overlap the cutout section in order to provide a smooth transition, eliminating any potential tripping hazard.
Should cabinets go on top of laminate flooring?
It is not recommended to install cabinets directly onto laminate flooring. Doing so can put undue stress on the flooring, which could cause it to crack or warp over time. The best way to install cabinets onto a laminate floor is to place something between the two surfaces.
It could be an underlayment, or a rubber material such as a non-skid shelf liner. This way, the pressure is spread out over a larger area, protecting the floor below and avoiding potential problems in the future.
Can you mop laminate floors?
Yes, you can mop laminate floors, although it is not recommended to do so often or with a lot of water due to the risk of damage. Laminate floors can be cleaned with a damp mop or cloth and/or an approved laminate floor cleaner.
If moping with water, it should be extremely lightly dampened so that excess water is not left on the surface. It should never be saturated with water. Sweep, vacuum, or dust mop the floor to remove any dirt and dust particles prior to mopping to reduce the chance of scratches.
Use a sponge mop or microfiber mop and a mild detergent to get the best results. Additionally, it is a good idea to use a laminate floor protector between the mop and the floor to reduce the risk of damaging the surface.
What is the flooring to have in a kitchen?
When it comes to choosing the right flooring for a kitchen, there are a number of factors to consider. Durability is key when selecting a flooring option as kitchen floors receive a lot of foot traffic and require a material that can handle spills and frequent cleaning.
Additionally, the material should be easy to maintain; meaning that it can easily be cleaned and withstand heavy wear and tear. Depending on the decor and style of the kitchen, there are a variety of materials that can be used as kitchen flooring.
One popular flooring material is ceramic or stone tiles. Tiles are durable, can be easily cleaned and are available in a range of colors, sizes, and styles. They also provide a sleek and modern look for those that desire a contemporary kitchen design.
However, ceramic and stone tiles can be cold underfoot and can be uncomfortable to stand on for long periods of time.
Vinyl is another popular choice for kitchen floors. Vinyl is cost-effective and is available in a range of colors and patterns that imitate other flooring materials such as hardwood. Vinyl is also water-resistant and can be easily scrubbed and maintained.
However, it is important to note that vinyl needs to be replaced more often than other materials due to its tendency to discolor and fade over time.
Other flooring materials that are gaining popularity are luxury vinyl plank and laminate. Luxury vinyl plank is thicker and more durable than traditional vinyl and provides an attractive and realistic alternative to hardwood.
Laminate flooring is also comfortable, resilient and can mimic the look of hardwood. Furthermore, both of these options hold up well in a kitchen and are easy to maintain.
Ultimately, there are many factors to consider when selecting the right flooring for your kitchen. Durability, maintenance and style are all important components in picking the perfect material. Depending on your needs and budget, there are several flooring options available including ceramic or stone tiles, vinyl, luxury vinyl plank and laminate.