I’m putting down some waterproof laminate flooring in my kitchen, and I could use a bit of advice. Do I need to do anything special to make sure it’s sealed properly, or is the “waterproof” part enough on its own?
Also, what’s the best way to deal with awkward spots like doorframes? Always end up making a mess of those bits.
If anyone’s done this before and has tips, I’d really appreciate it.
Hey mate,
Waterproof laminate’s spot on for kitchens, but there’s a few things you gotta keep in mind to make sure it’s done proper and lasts.
First up, even though it’s called “waterproof,” you still wanna leave a tiny expansion gap round the edges. Trust me, it’s worth it. And don’t skimp on the underlay—get a decent one for laminate. It’ll smooth out any dodgy spots and give a bit of extra protection. If your floor’s not quite level, might be a good shout to sort that first so you don’t end up cursing later.
For doorframes, here’s the trick: undercut the frame instead of faffing about trying to cut the laminate to fit perfectly. Grab a flush-cut saw or one of those multitools, trim the bottom of the frame just enough so the flooring slides under nice and tidy. Looks miles better and saves you a load of hassle.
Oh, and don’t forget to seal the edges, especially near the sink or appliances. A bit of silicone round the perimeter goes a long way to stop water sneaking in.
Hope that helps, mate. Give us a shout if you need any more tips. Best of luck with it!
Cheers!
I recently put waterproof laminate in my kitchen, and while the 'waterproof' feature is great, I’d still recommend sealing the edges, especially around the perimeter and any cuts near appliances or sinks. I used a clear silicone sealant for these spots to stop water from sneaking underneath – gives you extra peace of mind.
As for doorframes, the trick is undercutting them. Use a handsaw or multi-tool to trim the bottom of the frame so the laminate slides underneath. It looks neater and avoids those awkward cuts around the frame. Just take your time and measure carefully – makes a big difference in the finish!