Mavericks Laminate Flooring Installation Guide

Pre-Installation

Before you begin installation, remember to P.A.C.E. yourself with the checklist below.

Acclimation

Acclimate for 48 hours minimum. Keep boxes unopened and flat in the installation room at 65°F–85°F. Do not store in garages or exterior spaces.

Environmental Conditions

• Temperature: 65°F–85°F during installation and year-round
• Relative Humidity: 35%–65% during installation and year-round
• Building must be enclosed with HVAC running
• All wet work must be completed and dry

Subfloor Requirements

• Must be flat, clean, dry. Maximum 3/16" variation over 10 feet.
• Wood: Securely fastened, moisture ≤ 13%
• Concrete: Fully cured (60+ days). Moisture barrier required (6-mil plastic or approved underlayment with moisture barrier).
• Existing hard floors: Must be well-bonded, flat, and clean

Underlayment

A quality underlayment is required for all laminate installations. On concrete, use an underlayment with a built-in moisture barrier, or lay a 6-mil polyethylene sheet beneath the underlayment. Overlap seams 8" and tape.

Expansion Gap

Leave 1/4" to 3/8" expansion gap around all walls and fixed objects. Laminate expands and contracts with temperature and humidity changes.

Floating Click-Lock Installation

Installation Steps

Step 1: Install underlayment (and moisture barrier on concrete). Tape all seams.

Step 2: Measure room width. Ensure last row ≥ 2-1/2" wide. Adjust first row if needed.

Step 3: Begin along the longest, straightest wall with spacers. Cut tongue off first row using a table saw.

Step 4: Connect first-row planks end-to-end by angling and clicking.

Step 5: Start the second row with a plank cut to 1/3 or 2/3 length for staggered pattern. Maintain at least 12" offset between end joints.

Step 6: Angle the long edge of each plank into the previous row at 20° and press down to lock.

Step 7: Use a tapping block and rubber mallet to ensure full engagement. Never strike planks directly.

Step 8: Continue across the room, maintaining the stagger pattern.

Step 9: Rip the final row to width maintaining the expansion gap. Use a pull bar for tight spaces.

Step 10: Remove all spacers. Install baseboards, quarter-round, and T-moldings at transitions.

Care & Maintenance

• Sweep or vacuum regularly with a soft-bristle broom or vacuum without beater bar.
• Damp mop with a laminate-specific cleaner. Do NOT use wet mops, steam mops, or excessive water — laminate is NOT waterproof.
• Wipe up spills immediately to prevent moisture damage.
• Use felt pads under furniture and mats under rolling chairs.
• Place doormats at entrances. Maintain temperature 65°F–85°F, humidity 35%–65%.
• Use blinds or curtains to prevent UV fading.