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Silicone for sealing laminate floating floors
Q: Should I use silicone for sealing laminate floating floors during installation? I am getting ready to install a floating laminate wood flooring in our front entryway and living room this weekend. I have heard of people putting a thin bead of silicone on the top part of the tongues before inserting them into the next board’s groove in order to prevent any spilt water from leaking in between the boards. I am wondering if this is a good idea or not.
It sounds good in case our cat were to knock over water while we were gone, but would it hinder the expanding/contracting of the floor over the years, or make it too difficult to replace a board if ever needed? Would it be necessary or worth it, and if so, what kind of sealant would you suggest?
A: I would not use any sealant on the click joint. Torlys laminates have joints that are so good (as well as a core that is much more stable than some of these big box offerings) they claim standing water won’t penetrate the joint for at least 5 days. www.torlys.com. the only time I might suggest a sealant is when installing in a bathroom. I may seal around the cut ends near the flange for the toilet.
Water proofing Pergo laminate
Similar Q: I’m putting Pergo laminate in my bathroom and I need to water proof it, but I’m not sure what to use. What will work? I have the Gorilla clear silicone caulk.. But it doesn’t say laminate on the label.
A: Pergo? There is a name from the distant past. You should have some type of directions in the packages. I would obey those. For the perimeter, I would use silicone. If I remember correctly, they have their own product to apply o the joints.