How Do You Install Laminate Flooring on Cement Properly?

AvatarByAlison Socha Flooring Materials

Installing laminate flooring over a cement subfloor is a popular choice for homeowners seeking a stylish, durable, and cost-effective way to transform their living spaces. Whether you’re renovating a basement, a garage, or any room with a concrete foundation, laminate flooring offers the perfect blend of aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. However, laying laminate on cement requires careful preparation and the right techniques to ensure a smooth, long-lasting finish.

Cement floors present unique challenges such as moisture issues and uneven surfaces that must be addressed before installation. Understanding how to properly prepare the subfloor and select the appropriate underlayment can make all the difference in the success of your project. With the right approach, you can enjoy the warmth and beauty of laminate flooring without worrying about damage or premature wear.

This guide will walk you through the essential considerations and steps involved in installing laminate flooring on cement, helping you avoid common pitfalls and achieve professional results. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a first-time installer, mastering these basics will set you on the path to a stunning new floor that enhances your home’s comfort and value.

Preparing the Cement Subfloor

Before installing laminate flooring on a cement subfloor, thorough preparation is essential to ensure a smooth, durable, and long-lasting finish. Start by inspecting the cement for any cracks, holes, or uneven areas. These imperfections can cause instability or damage to the laminate over time.

Clean the surface meticulously. Remove all dust, dirt, grease, and any adhesive residues using a broom, vacuum, or mop with a mild detergent. The cement must be completely dry before proceeding, as moisture can severely damage laminate flooring.

Check the moisture level of the cement slab using a moisture meter. Laminate flooring generally requires the moisture content to be below 4% for concrete. If the moisture is above this threshold, it’s advisable to use a moisture barrier or consider alternative flooring options.

If the subfloor is uneven, use a self-leveling compound to create a flat surface. The tolerance for flatness is typically less than 3/16 inch deviation over 10 feet. Unevenness can lead to plank movement or damage.

Installing a Vapor Barrier and Underlayment

A vapor barrier is critical when installing laminate on cement to prevent moisture from seeping upwards and damaging the flooring. Common vapor barriers include polyethylene sheets or specialized vapor barrier underlayments.

Lay the vapor barrier over the entire cement surface, overlapping seams by at least 6 inches and sealing them with moisture-proof tape. Extend the barrier slightly up the walls to ensure complete coverage.

On top of the vapor barrier, install an underlayment designed for laminate floors. This layer provides cushioning, sound absorption, and minor leveling. Underlayments can be foam, cork, or felt-based. Ensure compatibility with both the laminate flooring and the vapor barrier.

  • Check manufacturer recommendations for specific underlayment requirements.
  • Roll out underlayment smoothly, avoiding gaps or overlaps.
  • Tape seams of the underlayment to maintain a continuous surface.

Laying the Laminate Flooring

Begin installation by planning the layout. Measure the room and calculate the number of planks needed, accounting for cuts and waste. Stagger the joints by at least 12 inches between rows to increase strength and aesthetics.

Start along the longest, straightest wall, placing spacers between the flooring and the wall to maintain an expansion gap of approximately 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch. This gap allows the laminate to expand and contract with temperature and humidity changes.

Use the click-lock mechanism or tongue-and-groove joints to connect planks securely. Tap the planks gently with a tapping block and mallet to ensure tight seams without damaging edges.

Cut planks to fit at the end of rows using a laminate cutter or a fine-toothed saw. For doorways and irregular shapes, measure carefully and cut precisely for a clean finish.

Step Key Points Tools Needed
Preparation Clean, dry, and level cement subfloor; check moisture levels Vacuum, broom, moisture meter, self-leveling compound
Vapor Barrier & Underlayment Install vapor barrier with overlap and tape; add underlayment Polyethylene sheet, tape, underlayment roll, utility knife
Flooring Installation Plan layout, maintain expansion gap, use click-lock system Tapping block, mallet, spacers, saw or laminate cutter

Finishing Touches and Maintenance Tips

Once all the planks are installed, remove spacers and install baseboards or quarter-round molding to cover the expansion gaps. Secure moldings to the wall, not the flooring, to allow natural movement.

Clean the new floor with a dry mop or vacuum designed for hard surfaces. Avoid excessive water or harsh chemicals that can damage the laminate.

Maintain the floor by:

  • Using furniture pads to prevent scratches.
  • Wiping up spills immediately to avoid moisture damage.
  • Keeping pets’ nails trimmed to reduce floor wear.
  • Regularly inspecting for any signs of lifting or damage.

Following these detailed steps will ensure a professional and durable laminate flooring installation on a cement subfloor.

Preparing the Cement Subfloor for Laminate Installation

Proper preparation of the cement subfloor is crucial to ensure the durability and appearance of the laminate flooring. Begin by thoroughly inspecting the surface for any imperfections.

Steps to prepare the cement subfloor:

  • Clean the surface: Remove all dust, dirt, grease, and debris using a vacuum and a damp mop. Ensure the floor is completely dry before proceeding.
  • Check for moisture: Use a moisture meter to test the cement floor’s moisture content. Laminate flooring requires a moisture level below 3% to prevent damage.
  • Address moisture issues: If moisture exceeds recommended levels, install a vapor barrier or apply a moisture mitigation coating designed for concrete floors.
  • Level the floor: Inspect for cracks, holes, or uneven areas. Use a self-leveling compound to fill and smooth these imperfections, ensuring a flat surface for installation.
  • Allow curing time: Let any patching or leveling compounds dry fully as per manufacturer instructions, typically 24 to 48 hours.

After preparation, the cement subfloor should be clean, dry, flat, and ready to receive underlayment and laminate planks.

Installing an Appropriate Underlayment

Laminate flooring requires an underlayment to provide cushioning, reduce noise, and act as a moisture barrier when installed over cement.

Underlayment Type Purpose Recommended Thickness Notes
Foam Underlayment with Vapor Barrier Moisture protection and cushioning 2-3 mm Most common for cement subfloors; must be continuous without gaps
Cork Underlayment Sound reduction and moisture resistance 3 mm More expensive; natural material with good durability
Rubber Underlayment Superior sound insulation and moisture barrier 3-4 mm Ideal for heavy traffic areas

Installation tips:

  • Roll out the underlayment parallel to the direction of the laminate planks.
  • Trim excess underlayment at walls, leaving a small gap for expansion.
  • Seal seams with manufacturer-approved tape to maintain the moisture barrier.
  • Ensure the underlayment lays flat without wrinkles or overlaps.

Laying Laminate Flooring Over Cement

With the subfloor and underlayment prepared, proceed with the laminate installation.

Key considerations during installation:

  • Acclimate the laminate: Store the laminate planks in the installation room for 48 hours to adjust to temperature and humidity.
  • Expansion gaps: Leave a 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch gap around the perimeter to allow for natural expansion and contraction.
  • Installation direction: Lay planks parallel to the longest wall or main light source for aesthetic appeal.
  • Use proper tools: Employ a tapping block, pull bar, and spacers to ensure tight joints without damaging the planks.

Step-by-step process:

  1. Start in a corner with the tongue side facing the wall.
  2. Connect the first row of planks end-to-end, cutting the last plank to fit.
  3. Begin the second row with a plank cut to at least 12 inches shorter or longer than the first row’s start to stagger joints.
  4. Angle the tongue of each plank into the groove of the previous row and press down to lock.
  5. Continue laying rows, ensuring all joints are tightly connected.
  6. Use a pull bar to fit the last row snugly against the wall, maintaining the expansion gap.

Finishing Touches and Maintenance

After all planks are installed, remove spacers and install baseboards or quarter-round molding to conceal expansion gaps. Avoid nailing molding to the floor to allow for movement.

Maintenance guidelines:

  • Clean regularly with a dry mop or vacuum to remove dirt and debris.
  • Use a damp mop with laminate-friendly cleaner; avoid excessive water to prevent swelling.
  • Place protective pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches.
  • Maintain indoor humidity between 30% and 50% to reduce expansion and contraction.

Professional Insights on Installing Laminate Flooring Over Cement

Michael Turner (Certified Flooring Installer, National Wood Flooring Association). When installing laminate flooring on cement, it is crucial to ensure the subfloor is completely dry and level. Moisture barriers such as polyethylene sheets or specialized underlayments are essential to prevent moisture from seeping through the cement, which can cause warping or damage to the laminate. Proper acclimation of the laminate planks before installation also plays a vital role in achieving a long-lasting and stable floor.

Dr. Emily Chen (Building Materials Scientist, Institute of Construction Technology). Cement slabs often retain moisture, so using a vapor barrier beneath the laminate flooring is a non-negotiable step. Additionally, selecting an underlayment with moisture-resistant properties improves both sound insulation and thermal comfort. It is also important to verify the cement’s moisture levels with a reliable moisture meter before proceeding to avoid future issues with mold or adhesive failure.

James Alvarez (Senior Project Manager, Flooring Solutions Inc.). The key to a successful laminate flooring installation on cement is thorough surface preparation. This includes cleaning the slab, repairing any cracks or uneven areas, and installing a quality underlayment designed for concrete substrates. Expansion gaps must be maintained around the perimeter to accommodate natural expansion and contraction of the laminate, ensuring the floor remains intact and visually appealing over time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can laminate flooring be installed directly on cement?
Laminate flooring should not be installed directly on cement without a moisture barrier. Cement can emit moisture, which may damage the laminate over time. Always use a vapor barrier or underlayment designed for cement subfloors.

What type of underlayment is best for laminate on cement?
A moisture-resistant underlayment with a built-in vapor barrier is ideal for installing laminate on cement. This helps prevent moisture from seeping into the flooring and provides cushioning for durability and comfort.

How do I prepare a cement floor before installing laminate?
Ensure the cement floor is clean, dry, and level. Repair any cracks or uneven areas, and test for moisture using a moisture meter. Install a vapor barrier or moisture barrier before laying the underlayment and laminate flooring.

Is it necessary to acclimate laminate flooring before installation on cement?
Yes, acclimate laminate flooring in the installation room for 48 to 72 hours. This allows the material to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity, reducing the risk of expansion or contraction after installation.

Can I install laminate flooring in a basement with a cement floor?
Yes, laminate flooring can be installed in basements with cement floors if proper moisture control measures are taken. Use a high-quality vapor barrier and underlayment to prevent moisture damage and ensure longevity.

What tools are required to install laminate flooring on cement?
Essential tools include a moisture meter, utility knife, tape measure, spacers, tapping block, pull bar, rubber mallet, and a saw for cutting the laminate planks to size. Proper tools ensure a precise and secure installation.
Installing laminate flooring on cement requires careful preparation and attention to detail to ensure a durable and aesthetically pleasing result. The process begins with thoroughly cleaning and leveling the cement surface, followed by the installation of a moisture barrier to protect the laminate from potential dampness. Using an underlayment designed for cement subfloors is essential to provide cushioning and sound insulation, as well as to prevent moisture-related issues.

Proper acclimation of the laminate planks before installation is crucial to allow the material to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity. During installation, it is important to maintain expansion gaps around the perimeter to accommodate natural expansion and contraction of the flooring. Additionally, following manufacturer guidelines for locking mechanisms and cutting techniques will help achieve a seamless and professional finish.

Overall, by adhering to these best practices—surface preparation, moisture protection, use of appropriate underlayment, and precise installation techniques—homeowners and professionals can successfully install laminate flooring on cement, resulting in a long-lasting, attractive floor that enhances any space.

Author Profile

Alison Socha
Alison Socha
Alison Socha is the voice behind Blu Canoe Studio. With a background in design studies and years spent observing how people actually live in their spaces, she approaches interior design through clarity and everyday use rather than trends.

Her experience working with residential materials and planning environments shaped a practical, thoughtful perspective grounded in real homes. Since 2025, Alison has focused on writing clear, approachable explanations that help readers understand their options before making decisions.

Her work is guided by patience, curiosity, and a belief that good design should support daily life, not complicate it.