Installing laminate flooring on walls can be a creative way to add a unique and stylish touch to your interior decor. Laminate flooring is designed to be installed on floors, but with some modifications and the right tools, you can use it on walls as well. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you install laminate flooring on walls:
Materials and Tools Needed:
- Laminate flooring planks
- Underlayment (optional, for soundproofing)
- Adhesive suitable for laminate and wall use (check manufacturer's recommendations)
- Jigsaw or saw
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Spacers
- Construction adhesive (for heavier planks or where recommended)
- Finishing nails (optional, for added support)
- Clean cloth
- Finishing trim (quarter round or baseboard)
- Miter saw or coping saw (for trimming finishing trim)
Step-by-Step Installation:
Preparation:
- Measure the wall area where you want to install the laminate flooring. Calculate how many planks you'll need to cover the surface. Consider adding a few extra planks for any cutting mistakes or future repairs.
- Remove any existing trim or molding from the wall.
- Ensure the wall surface is clean, dry, and smooth.
Prepare the Laminate Flooring:
- If you have underlayment, cut it to fit the wall area and attach it to the wall using staples or nails. The underlayment helps with soundproofing and can add some insulation.
Cut the Planks:
- Measure and mark the planks according to the wall's height, and cut them to size using a jigsaw or saw. Make sure the cuts are accurate to fit the wall properly.
Start Installation:
- Apply a suitable adhesive on the back of the first laminate plank, making sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
- Place the plank at the bottom of the wall, using spacers to maintain a consistent gap between the floor and the plank (usually around 1/4 inch).
- Press the plank firmly against the wall to ensure it sticks properly.
Continue Installing Planks:
- Apply adhesive to the back of the next plank and install it next to the first one, using spacers again to maintain the gap.
- Continue this process, row by row, until you reach the top of the wall.
Trimming:
- For the last row of planks, you may need to cut them to fit the remaining space at the top. Measure and cut carefully to achieve a neat finish.
Use Construction Adhesive (if needed):
- If you're using heavier laminate planks or if the manufacturer recommends it, apply construction adhesive to the back of the planks in addition to the regular adhesive for added support.
Finishing Touches:
- Once all the planks are installed, clean any excess adhesive from the surface using a clean cloth.
- Install finishing trim, such as quarter round or baseboard, along the edges of the wall to cover the gaps and provide a polished look. Use a miter saw or coping saw to make accurate cuts for the finishing trim.
Keep in mind that laminate flooring is not originally designed for wall installation, so you should ensure the adhesive you use is suitable for both laminate and wall surfaces. Additionally, laminate flooring on walls may not have the same durability as other wall materials, so take care to avoid excessive impacts or scratching. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations and guidelines when using laminate flooring in non-traditional ways.