Laminate has been laid by ourselves. We have fitted the laminate up to the cupboards first set of feet. How do you stop those end bits of laminate slipping out of place? We are cutting the kick boards to fit but I don’t want to keep moving those bits of flooring back into place every few days. Thanks in advance!
MT UK
42 Reviews, 98% Positive
Lift kickboards/skirting and fill the gaps between the floor and walls then replace kick boards
If it's near a wall (either side) pull the base, have one person apply pressure with a prybar (careful to pry on a stud or use a board to prevent putting a hole in the sheetrock) and have another person repeatedly tap the top of the board's you are moving with a hammer or mallet. The vibration from tapping helps it move. Some laminate will not slide even if it is an edge piece, those types would need to be taken up to the nearest wall and reset.
You can either fit some edging or simply apply a few galvanised nails to stop the pieces moving
To stop laminate flooring from moving under kickboards, follow these steps:
Ensure Proper Expansion Gaps: Make sure there is an appropriate expansion gap between the laminate and the walls or kickboards. This gap allows the laminate to expand and contract without pushing against fixed objects.
Secure the Kickboards: Attach the kickboards firmly to the wall or base of the cabinets using screws or adhesive, ensuring they hold the laminate in place.
Use Transition Strips: Install transition strips or molding at the edges of the laminate flooring where it meets the kickboards. These strips help secure the edges of the laminate and can prevent movement.
Check the Subfloor: Ensure that the subfloor is level and clean. Any unevenness can cause the laminate to shift.
Reinstall the Laminate: If the laminate is already moving, it may need to be removed and reinstalled correctly with proper underlayment and spacing to prevent future movement.
Use wood glue on the joints.
*Use Adhesive or Double-Sided Tape:
- Apply a small amount of construction adhesive or use strong double-sided tape on the subfloor where the end pieces of laminate sit. This will help keep them from moving but still allow for removal if needed.
*Install a Transition Strip or Threshold:
- If the gap is at the edge of a doorway or an exposed edge, consider installing a transition strip or threshold. This will hold the laminate down and in place, preventing it from shifting.
**Secure with Brackets or Clips:
- If the end piece is small and needs extra stability, you can use small metal brackets or clips attached to the subfloor and the laminate. This will hold it in place without being visible.
*Foam Blocks or Shims:
- Place small foam blocks or shims between the laminate and the cupboards. These can help keep the laminate in place without applying adhesive, and they will be hidden behind the kickboards.
*Fit the Kickboards Snugly:
- When you cut and install the kickboards, ensure they fit snugly against the laminate. A tight fit will help hold the laminate pieces in place and reduce movement.
*Install a Thin Bead of Sealant:
- You can use a thin, flexible bead of silicone sealant between the laminate and the base of the cupboards. This will provide enough grip to hold the laminate in place without being too permanent.