Installing Laminate Flooring In Bathroom

Installing Laminate Flooring In Bathroom

You're finally doing that new bathroom renovation! Awesome! You've decided on the laminate flooring, the perfect pedestal sink, and a brand new toilet. But you know that laminate flooring isn't waterproof… so, do you install the flooring under the bathroom toilet and sink, or do you cut around it?

Start With The Flooring

If you're installing a new floor, pedestal sink, and toilet, you should install the laminate flooring first so it'sunder the sink and toilet. Because laminate flooring floats above the sub-floor on top of underlayment, it will expand and contract slightly with the temperature and humidity of the room. This makes it impossible for any caulking around the base of the sink and toilet to hold.

If you were to install the toilet and sink first, the caulking could crack due to the expansion and contraction, making the installation look sloppy. By installing the flooring first, you will also be able to more easily switch up cabinetry or fixtures, without having gaps in the flooring.

Photo by Ramona Nicolae Photography

For Cabinets and Vanities

If you're installing cabinets or a vanity that is fixed to the flooring, you will install these first. A laminate will not be able to float under a cabinet. Install the cabinets and then use a finishing molding around the edges to cover the expansion gap.

How Do I Install The Flooring Properly?

Precision cutting is key in this type of installation. Cut the flooring around the drains fairly close to the hole. When you install the toilet, screw it down snugly, but not overly tight. If you're installing a pedestal sink, while it's heavy, the floor should still be able to expand and contract properly.

The most important thing is not to push the baseboard too tight to the floor, and to leave the proper expansion gap, when you install the flooring and molding. This is what allows the floor to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity. If you're worried about water spilling, you can add a waterproof glue to the locking system joints while installing. This will help create a more water-tight seal between planks, which is where the floor will be the most prone to water damage.

Traditional Bathroom by Menlo Park General Contractors Supple Homes, Inc

If you have additional questions on how to properly install laminate flooring in a bathroom, feel free to ask them in the comment section below! We would love to help you!

More Bathroom Installation Help:

• Ask Bob and Betsy: Can I Use Laminate Flooring in a Bathroom?
• Is there a special installation process for laminate flooring in bathrooms?
• Bathroom Flooring Ideas to Make Your Room Sparkle

Installing Laminate Flooring In Bathroom

Source: https://www.bestlaminate.com/blog/can-i-install-laminate-flooring-under-a-bathroom-toilet-and-sink/