Laying laminate with a chamfer

Thanks to its easy installation process, laminate flooring is one of the most favored options for floor coverings. A laminate with a chamfered edge resembles a natural wooden plank and offers numerous advantages over regular laminate flooring. In order to properly install laminate floorboards with a chamfered edge, it is important to understand the unique characteristics of this material as well as the proper techniques for laying and installing it. To assist with this, we have provided a helpful photo guide on how to correctly lay laminate flooring with a chamfered edge.

What is a chamfer in laminate flooring

Laminate flooring with a chamfer, in contrast to traditional laminate, features a straight beveled edge. It sets itself apart with its unique appearance and performance characteristics. There are various options available for the shape, size, and depth of the beveled cut. The panels can be distinguished as either having two bevels or four bevels. In the two-beveled panels, only the opposite edges are beveled, while in the four-beveled panels, all edges are processed with a bevel. The type of corner cut also varies, with options for curved or straight cuts.

IMPORTANT: The four-bevel laminate flooring is the most versatile option, suitable for any space. It can be installed in almost any direction.

Advantages and disadvantages

The product has several significant advantages that are worth highlighting:

• Enhanced design. The laminate closely resembles natural wood, allowing for endless design possibilities. It can imitate the texture of various wood types.
• Concealed joints. The chamfer covers the joint area between panels, making the seams invisible. This is particularly beneficial in high humidity and changing seasons.
• Longevity. When properly installed, the laminate can last for approximately 10 years.
• Improved durability. The top layer of the panel is thicker to create the bevel, resulting in increased strength.
• Joint protection. The beveled edge is treated with a special compound that enhances the product’s strength.
• Within certain bounds, it is feasible to recline on irregular terrain.

One of the drawbacks is the significantly higher price in comparison to regular laminate. Another point of contention is the belief that dirt can accumulate in the gaps between the boards.

What tools to prepare

Before commencing the installation process of laminate flooring, it is essential to gather and organize all the necessary tools in order to avoid unnecessary distractions during the process. Additionally, it is important to familiarize yourself with the different types and variations of laying techniques and select the most suitable one for your specific needs. Therefore, the workspace should be equipped with the following devices:

1. A measuring tape and a rectangular ruler
2. A rubber mallet
3. A pencil
4. An electric jigsaw or a saw
5. A screwdriver for installing baseboards
6. A knife
7. Glue, if needed
8. A vacuum cleaner
9. Wooden wedges

How to lay laminate with a chamfer

There are two distinct methods of installing boards that can be identified. Let’s examine them in detail. The first method involves laying the boards parallel to one of the walls, known as the "along the walls" technique. To create the illusion of a larger space, it is recommended to align the planks with the shorter wall.

The second method, known as "diagonal planking," involves placing the panels at an angle to the walls, which is solely based on the customer’s personal preferences. One disadvantage of this approach is that it tends to result in more leftover scraps. However, the overall pattern of the flooring is more visually appealing compared to the first method.

NOTE: The fundamental principles of laying flooring with a chamfer are the same as those for standard laminate installation. However, there are several unique considerations that need to be taken into account.

Installation

The process of installation is typical and understandable. It is important to adhere to the following set of actions:

1. First and foremost, the surface needs to be leveled. In most cases, this step takes longer than the actual installation. Any noticeable irregularities in the concrete screed must be carefully eliminated.
2. The carpet padding is laid out and secured at the edges. It is recommended to leave a gap of up to 1.2 mm along the walls. The carpet padding should be placed perpendicular to the material, without overlapping.
3. Wooden blocks are also placed along the walls.
4. The installation process should begin from the furthest corner. The panel is positioned with the tongue and groove facing towards the second row. Then, the panel on the second row is cut in a way that gives room for joint spreading.
5. The second row continues to be installed while a small piece is placed. To secure the fastener, a thin layer of glue is applied to the lower part. After it is fixed, the edge is wiped clean with a cloth.
6. The Lock fixation method is the most popular and commonly used. It involves connecting the panels by tapping the padded end with a wooden block and a hammer. No glue is necessary for this method. However, aligning the joint requires experience.
7. Another popular method is the CupsClic system, which allows the boards to be joined by simply snapping a lock. The beveled panel is inserted into the tongue and groove at a 40 degree angle, and then brought back to a horizontal position.

BACKGROUND. When purchasing a chamfered laminate panel, special attention should be given to the type of lock connection.

How to bypass communications

One of the main challenges that beginners face when it comes to flooring is navigating around obstacles such as pipes. A simple technique to overcome this difficulty is to position the board as close to the pipe as possible and mark its intended location with a pencil. To determine the distance from the wall’s edge to the center of the pipe, a ruler can be used. Once the measurements are taken, a hole of the appropriate shape can be sawed. A jigsaw is ideal for creating straight cutouts, while a milling cutter is more suitable for round holes.

In this situation, it is necessary to ensure that the hole diameter is increased by 15-20 mm, so that the laminate is not flush with the pipe. This will allow for the insertion of the board into the lock. The cut-out piece should be saved for future use. It can be placed back in the gap or sealed with a sealant. Alternatively, special strips can be purchased from stores to cover the gap between the laminate and the pipe. These strips come in a wide range of colors, allowing for a perfect match with the floor color.

Manufacturers provide a variety of floor coverings with different properties. Chamfered flooring is known for its improved resistance to wear and durability compared to regular laminate flooring.