Laminate Flooring Accessories Transitions Moldings and Tools
A professional looking laminate installation requires the right accessories. Here is what you need.
Expansion Gap Covers
The expansion gap around the room perimeter must be covered. Quarter round molding is the most common choice. It attaches to the baseboard and covers the gap. Base shoe molding is a narrower option that gives a cleaner look. Tuck the edge of the laminate under the baseboard if possible for the cleanest look.
Transition Strips
Transition strips are needed where laminate meets other flooring types. T-molding is used where laminate meets another floor of similar height like tile or vinyl. Reducer strip is used where laminate meets a lower floor like carpet. Ramps are used where laminate meets a higher floor like tile or hardwood. End cap is used at doorways where the flooring ends at a sliding glass door track or fireplace.
Other Accessories
Vent covers are needed if floor vents are present. Replace existing vent covers with flat covers designed for laminate clearance. Underlayment tape is used to seal underlayment seams. Moisture barrier tape is used to seal polyethylene vapor barrier seams.
Tools
Tapping block for locking planks together without damaging the edges. Pull bar for locking the last row of planks. Spacers to maintain the expansion gap. Rubber mallet for tapping planks. Utility knife for cutting underlayment and trim. Circular saw or jigsaw for cutting planks. Measuring tape and carpenter square.
How Laminate Accessories Differ From SPC
Laminate requires the same basic trim and transitions as SPC. The main difference is the expansion gap size. Laminate needs 8mm to 12mm gap which may require wider quarter round to cover. Laminate may need different underlayment tape. Some laminate underlayments use adhesive strips instead of tape.
About PROLEADER
PROLEADER laminate flooring accessories are available for all our products. Contact us for trim and transition recommendations.
