Laminate Flooring to Stairs Transition? 6 Things to Consider!


Most people get scared when it comes to transitioning from lamiante flooring to stairs. However, it’s not something you should be worried about. Unless you are an absolute beginner installing a transition is pretty straightforward.

Making the switch from laminate flooring to your stairs can seem an extremely complicated task, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these simple tips, you’ll be ready to make the switch in no time.

Can You Transition from Laminate Flooring to Stairs?

It is possible to transition from laminate flooring to stairs. In fact, most manufacturers provide a specific piece to be used for transitioning from the laminate flooring to the stairs. These are 2 wide pieces and a nose piece that is designed to cover the edge of the laminate floor. 

This can give it a smooth and seamless appearance in terms of transition. 

NOTE: It may be possible that you need to buy it separately because not all manufacturers include them.

6 Things to Consider While Transitioning from Laminate Flooring to Stairs

If you’re unsure how to transition but don’t want to call in a professional, there are 6 things that we can share when transitioning from laminate flooring to stairs. With the help of these tips, you’d probably have a good idea if you’re up to the task or not.

  1. You need some level of skill. 

First things first, you should remember that transitioning from laminate flooring to stairs is a process that will require some skill. Therefore, it’s not something recommended for beginners. This does not mean you cannot try, but only that it may require some previous experience.

In case you haven’t done this before or feel totally lost, calling in a professional would probably be for the best.

  1. You should have the right measurements.

Some people might tell you that all stair treads are all the same heights, so they’d tell you what size or height you need to cut. That is not true. The stair treads and laminate flooring planks are not always of the same length or width. Their sizes are different, so you will likely need to cut, trim, and piece planks together.

  1. You should install the stair nose correctly.

It’s a given that you want the laminate flooring to be installed correctly, but you need to pay extra attention to the stair nosing. If it’s not properly installed, it may result in unfortunate accidents.

For example, if people stepped on an improperly installed stair nosing, they would fall and hurt themselves quite badly. Using a screw for every eight to nine inches of nosing is therefore recommended. It’s also a good idea to use construction glue along with it to ensure a secure hold.

  1. It would be best if you did not opt for an underlayment

Some people like installing underlayment on their stairs, but this is not needed with a floating system. Instead, you should go with nails or screws or opt for adhesive to ensure the laminate flooring stays in place and does not move.

Please do not confuse this with regular laminate installation. Gluing or nailing your laminate floor may not be such a good idea because laminate flooring is a floating floor and needs to be able to move(breath) when it expands and contracts due to weather changes.

  1. You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

The first thing one should always do is to check if the manufacturer left instructions. This is because if they do and you do not follow them, it will void the warranty. Also, it’s important to note that not every flooring brand has the same instructions.

  1. Don’t rush it

One of the key things to remember when transitioning laminate flooring to stairs is that this process should not be rushed. You might forget one part and, because of it, need to restart the whole process, or even worse, you didn’t realize and left it this way, which makes it a potential accidental hazard.

How to prepare for Transitioning from Laminate flooring to stairs.

When it comes to the transition itself, It’s not very difficult to transition from laminate flooring to stairs, as long as you keep a few things in mind. These are mentioned below.

  1. Have the right tools 

Making the transition from laminate flooring to stairs will require tools such as:

  • Nail gun
  • Hammer
  • Saw
  • Tape measure
  • Adhesive
  • Rubber mallet
  1. Plan the transition

Bear in mind that good planning is essential. This does not only mean knowing what you’re doing but also having good quality laminate flooring available and ensuring that the flooring you use for transitioning to stairs is not too thin.

  1. Use the right method.

It should also be noted that there are several stair transition methods. You can use a stair nose molding for transitioning from laminate flooring to stairs, or you can also go for a T-molding that will give the two surfaces a T-shaped transition. The transition may vary depending on how you’ve installed your laminate floorings, such as Herr¨ingbone patternH-pattern, or L-shaped pattern

Wood molding is the third option you could go for, but it’s primarily suitable when looking for a straight transition.

How Do You Transition from Laminate Flooring to Stairs?

Depending on the method you’ve chosen, the process of transitioning from laminate flooring to stairs only takes a few steps.

  1. Measure the difference in height

The first step is to measure the difference in height between the top of the stairs and the floor. This will give you an approximate idea of how much material you’d need for transitioning purposes. Try to get a piece of the same width as the stair treads, as this saves you from the hassle of cutting it.

  1. Cut the piece to size.

The next step is to cut the piece of flooring to size. Here, you want to ensure that you get the height right for an easy transition. A saw can be used for cutting accurately. 

After you’re done cutting, with the help of screws or nails, attach it to the floor while ensuring that it’s properly installed and not moving.

  1. Installing the transition piece

The third and final step is to install the transition piece. It can be nailed or screwed in, and you can also use glue, but the most crucial part is that it’s secure and, again, that there is no movement. And lastly, install the laminate flooring after you have put in the transition piece.

You can check out this video below to assist you in the installation.

FAQs

How to Transition Laminate Flooring to Carpeted Stairs?

If you want to transition laminate flooring to carpeted stairs, you must install a laminate stair nosing. You have to do this on the top step of your carpeted stairs. This will give you a seamless transition. But, bearing in mind that you’ll have to cut the stair molding according to the width of your stairs.

Can You Glue Laminate Flooring on Stairs?

Yes, you can glue laminate flooring on your stairs because you don’t need to use an underlayment, and a floating system is not recommended either. While there is an option of nailing or screwing the laminate flooring on stairs, most people prefer and also recommend construction glue for a secure hold. 

Using glue is quicker and keeps the floor secure. There are fewer chances of movement when the glue is used, and the planks stay secure if you use a good-quality adhesive.

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