How to install Aqua Step Waterproof Laminate Flooring

 

The first thing to do when installing an Aqua-Step Floor is to put the kettle on. Is this done? Great, Well then lets move on to the easy bit.

 

In all seriousness the first thing to do is check we have the right tools and that all the floor and accessories have been checked for defects or problems. Below is a short check list of things to first check.

1. Check you have the required amount of Aqua-Step flooring for Installation

2. Check the packs and planks for any defects such as click systems missing or dis colouring.

3. Check that you have sufficient underlay and that it is the right type (Aqua Base)

4. Check that you have sufficient beading and door bars

5. Check the subfloor for any leaks or damp (This won’t affect the floor but may cause damp build up)

6. Check that you have the right tools. You will need. A pull bar, A tapping block, a saw, a pencil, a measuring tape and expansion spacers.

 

Now that we’ve checked everything off, (The floors are good and tools are ready) its time to swig that brew and take a second, Here comes the hard bit.

Before starting on the Aqua Step floor installation ensure your underlay is down.

1. Starting from the longest straight wall of the room lay the first board down making sure the short edge is facing the wall and the long edge facing you, by the long edge we mean the female part of the click system. Now remember to use the expansion spacers to leave an 8mm expansion around the edge of the room. This may need to be bigger depending on the area of the room.

2. Connect the 2nd board to the 1st, place the male interlocking end into the female at an angle level to the board that is already down and then lower to the floor so that we can tap the plank into place.

3. Now using the tapping block position at the end of the second board and using only a tapping action strike the block to complete the joint. (Be careful)

4. Repeat this as many times as necessary to reach the end of the row. The final board in the row will need to be marked and cut to size. Take the short end of the board and turn it over to face the wall, Remember to leave room for expansion. The board can now be marked with a cut line, This will give the correct size required once cut. Cut the panel down to size with a hand saw or power saw if available.

5. The final board of the row can now be installed.  Position the board to be fitted as before. Using the pull bar position over the end of the final board where the expansion gap is. Using yet again a tapping motion, tap the pull bar and the joints will complete. Well done! The first row is now complete.

6. Take the off cut from the board that was previously cut and use as a starter board for the next row. This is a great way to ensure joints are not to close together and to not waste any of your Aqua-Step flooring. (Make sure the offcut is greater that 200mm)

7. Place the short edge of the starter board into the female groove of the long edge of the first row and slide it into position to the left. The 2nd board of this row is the same as the first, slide into the female and then lower into the female end of the first plank, then use the tapping block to complete the joint as we did before.

Repeat the above steps as much as necessary to complete the space required.

We hope the above information helps you on your DIY journey. The Aqua-Step locking system is one of the easiest in the markets which means your DIY journey does not have to end in tears.

See our Aqua-Step Wood Oak Grey Here.

For more information on Aqua-Step Waterproof Laminate flooring and the installation process. Visit our website or call us on 01283 547528.