How to Finish Laminate Flooring Edges

The first step in finishing laminate flooring edges is understanding the edging options available and their purposes. Beading, also known as quarter-round or Scotia, is a popular choice for concealing gaps around the edges of your flooring. It creates a seamless, polished look while hiding small spaces left for expansion. Edging strips or profiles provide a clean finish at open edges, such as those near doorways or where the flooring meets other surfaces. Additionally, stair nosing is necessary for installations on stairs, as it not only provides a smooth transition but also improves safety.

To achieve a professional finish on your laminate flooring edges, you’ll need to follow a series of precise steps. Careful measuring is key, as it helps ensure a smooth installation and long-lasting results. Start by measuring and preparing the flooring, leaving a small expansion gap — usually around 10mm — to prevent buckling. It’s important to have accurate measurements around edges, doorways, and any areas where the floor meets another surface.

If you’re dealing with exposed edges, such as on countertops or in doorways, you’ll need an edging strip. To fit an edging strip to laminate flooring, first measure and cut the strip to match the length of the exposed edge. Next, apply a suitable adhesive (make sure to choose an appropriate glue for laminate edging) or use a fastening rail to secure the strip in place. Carefully align the strip with the edge of the flooring and press it firmly into place to ensure it is secure.

To install beading around the edges, start by selecting beading that complements the colour of your laminate flooring. Matching or coordinating the beading with the laminate colour is essential for a cohesive, finished look. Once you’ve chosen the right beading, cut it to the appropriate lengths using a saw or beading cutter. After cutting, apply a thin line of adhesive, small nails, or fastening clips to attach the beading along the expansion gap. Beading can be tricky around door frames, so measure carefully and make precise cuts to ensure the beading fits snugly around the frame for a seamless transition.

Just like when measuring for laminate flooring , you should always get more than you need when ordering beading. This extra supply can be handy to have in hand if you make a mistake in the installation process, or even for later down the line for replacing beading sections.

In areas where moisture may be an issue, such as kitchens and bathrooms, sealing the laminate flooring edges is essential. To seal the edges, apply a thin line of water-resistant sealant along any edge where the laminate meets another surface, such as walls or doorways. Using a water-resistant sealant is crucial for preventing water seepage, which could damage the laminate over time. Be careful not to use too much sealant, as an excess can make the edges rigid and may lead to buckling; a light application is sufficient for a clean, effective finish.

For installations on stairs, you’ll need to install stair nosing, which is both functional and stylish. Again, choose a stair nosing strip that matches or complements the colour and style of your laminate flooring. To install the nosing, use a combination of strong adhesive and screws to secure it in place, especially in high-traffic areas. Position the nosing along the edge of each stair, ensuring that it aligns properly for a straight, professional look.

For large expanses of flooring, transition profiles can be used to stably connect two level flooring systems. If the two floors are of different heights, for example when joining carpet to laminate, look for levelling profiles for an even transition.

If you’re updating or replacing old edging, removing it without damaging the flooring is important. Start by using a flat, thin tool to gently lift the beading or edging strip. Once you’ve removed the old edging, clean the area thoroughly to remove any adhesive residue or debris. This will ensure a smooth surface for installing the new edging. For more tips on removing laminate flooring , be sure to read our full guide.

Proper maintenance can help preserve the appearance and functionality of your laminate flooring edges for years to come. Regular dusting is a must if you want to keep the edges clean and looking fresh, and always avoid excessive water around the edges, as too much moisture can seep into gaps and damage the floor. It’s also a good idea to periodically check for any loose beading or edging strips and re-secure them promptly if they start to come away from the floor. Remember to follow our care instructions to really get the most out of your laminate flooring.