How To Lay Laminate Flooring From Hallway Into Room

Few DIY projects can transform multiple spaces as effectively as laying laminate flooring from a hallway into an adjoining room. “The key is maintaining perfect alignment at the threshold, where two distinct areas meet,” explains John Martinez, professional flooring installer with 20 years of experience. You’ll need specific tools and techniques to guarantee your flooring flows seamlessly between spaces – and the changeover point requires extra attention to prevent future problems.

What You Will Need

• Materials: laminate flooring planks (calculate square footage plus 10% extra), underlayment, changeover strips, and baseboards/quarter round molding

Step-by-Step Guide

Before you can start laying your laminate flooring, you’ll need to remove the baseboards and roll out both the underlay and vapor barrier according to manufacturer specs. You’ll want to begin at the doorway threshold, measuring and cutting the edge planks first to guarantee a precise fit against the walls. Once you’ve established your starting point, you can work systematically to install the central flooring rows, clicking planks together as you progress across the room.

1. Remove Old Baseboards First

Since baseboards protect your walls from damage, you’ll need to carefully remove them before installing laminate flooring. Here’s how to do it properly:

1. Score the caulk line between baseboard and wall with a utility knife
2. Insert a pry bar behind the baseboard, using a putty knife as protection
3. Gently pull the baseboard away from the wall at each nail location
4. Number each piece on the back as you remove it
5. Label which wall it came from
6. Store baseboards flat in a dry area

“Always work slowly and methodically to prevent wall damage,” advises contractor Mike Stevens.

2. Install Underlay and Vapor Barrier

Installing proper underlayment and vapor barrier creates an essential foundation for your laminate flooring project. Start by thoroughly cleaning the subfloor of any debris or dust.

Step 1: Roll out the vapor barrier with the seams overlapping by 6 inches

Step 2: Secure edges with waterproof tape

Step 3: Lay foam underlayment perpendicular to your planned flooring direction

Step 4: Butt edges together without overlapping

Step 5: Tape seams with manufacturer-recommended tape

“A quality vapor barrier prevents moisture damage, while proper underlayment reduces noise and provides cushioning,” notes flooring expert Mike Thompson. Don’t skip these critical layers, as they protect your investment.

3. Start at Doorway Threshold

The doorway threshold marks your essential starting point for laying laminate flooring, as it creates a clean shift between rooms.

To begin properly:

1. Measure your threshold width and cut a piece of laminate to fit
2. Leave a 1/4-inch expansion gap along walls
3. Position the first plank parallel to the threshold
4. Check alignment with a laser level
5. Secure the threshold piece using T-molding

“Starting at the threshold guarantees proper alignment and helps prevent gaps from forming as you work into the room,” says flooring expert Mike Chen. Remember to keep your planks staggered by at least 6 inches as you continue laying rows.

4. Cut Edge Planks First

Before laying any full planks, cutting your edge pieces properly guarantees a precise fit and professional-looking finish along the walls.

To cut your edge planks:

1. Measure the distance from the wall to your chalk line, subtracting 1/4 inch for expansion gap
2. Mark these measurements on your planks
3. Use a speed square to draw your cutting line
4. Cut along the line with a power saw, keeping the finished side up

“Always cut edge pieces first – it’s easier to adjust your layout before committing to full planks,” says flooring expert Mike Thompson. Remember to wear safety glasses and hearing protection while cutting.

5. Install Central Flooring Rows

Once you’ve prepared your edge pieces, laying the central rows of laminate flooring requires careful attention to alignment and proper interlocking technique.

Follow these steps:

1. Start from your cut edge pieces, working toward the center
2. Click each plank into place at a 30-degree angle
3. Press down firmly until you hear the locking mechanism engage
4. Maintain a 1/4 inch gap along walls for expansion
5. Stagger end joints by at least 6 inches between rows

“Always check your rows stay perfectly straight using a chalk line every 3-4 rows,” advises master installer Tom Wilson. “This prevents alignment issues from compounding as you progress across the room.”

6. Install Remaining Corner Sections

After completing your central flooring rows, installing remaining corner sections requires careful planning and precise cutting techniques. You’ll need to:

1. Measure each corner space precisely, accounting for the expansion gap
2. Cut boards to fit using a jigsaw for irregular shapes
3. Dry-fit pieces before final installation
4. Apply wood glue to joints where needed
5. Tap boards gently into place using a tapping block
6. Secure corner pieces with quarter-round molding

“Always cut corner pieces slightly shorter than measured to maintain proper expansion space,” says Tom Miller, master installer with 20 years’ experience. “This prevents buckling when temperatures change.”

7. Install Final Baseboard Trim

The final baseboard trim provides essential protection for your new laminate flooring while creating a polished, finished look along the walls.

Follow these steps to install your baseboard trim:

1. Measure and mark your baseboards, cutting them to size with a miter saw
2. Apply construction adhesive to the back of each piece
3. Position the trim against the wall, leaving a 1/8-inch gap above the flooring
4. Secure with 2-inch finishing nails every 16 inches
5. Fill nail holes with wood putty
6. Caulk the top edge where trim meets wall
7. Paint or stain as needed to match your decor

“Always pre-paint your trim for the cleanest finish,” says master carpenter Jim Davis.

8. Install Door Transition Strip

Moving from wall trim to doorways, proper connection between two different flooring surfaces demands careful attention to detail. Here’s how to install a connector strip:

1. Measure the doorway width and cut the metal track accordingly
2. Center the track in the doorway, leaving equal expansion gaps on both sides
3. Drill pilot holes through the track into the subfloor
4. Secure the track with provided screws
5. Snap the connector strip into the metal track at a 45-degree angle
6. Press down firmly until you hear a click

“Always test the connector strip’s stability before moving furniture,” says flooring expert Mike Chen.

9. Clean and Inspect Final Areas

Completing your laminate flooring installation requires thorough cleaning and careful inspection to guarantee lasting quality. Follow these final steps:

1. Remove all installation debris and sawdust using a vacuum cleaner
2. Wipe down the entire floor surface with a slightly damp microfiber mop
3. Check all seams and joints for proper alignment
4. Test each board for secure clicking and locking
5. Inspect expansion gaps around the perimeter (should be 1/4 to 3/8 inch)
6. Verify connections are properly secured
7. Look for any scratches or damage that needs repair
8. Document any warranty information and maintenance requirements

“A thorough final inspection prevents future issues,” notes flooring expert Mike Thompson.

10. Apply Sealant Around Edges

Once you’ve completed the main flooring installation, applying sealant around the edges creates a protective moisture barrier that prevents water damage and extends your floor’s lifespan.

Follow these steps to properly seal the edges:

1. Clean edges thoroughly with a damp cloth
2. Apply silicone-based sealant in a 1/4-inch bead along wall joints
3. Use masking tape for clean lines
4. Smooth the bead with a caulking tool
5. Let dry for 24 hours before replacing baseboards

“A proper seal prevents moisture from seeping underneath and compromising your flooring’s integrity,” says flooring expert Mike Turner. Don’t skip expansion gaps or changes between rooms.