How to Stagger Wood Flooring
To stagger a wooden floor, start in one corner and leave a 3/8 inch gap. Stagger each board by 6-12 inches between rows, alternating direction. Racking creates a random pattern with two benefits – aesthetic and structural. Take measurements first. Installation will be unique.
Staggering Laminate Flooring
When installing laminate flooring, stagger planks so end seams are at least 8 inches apart. This helps appearance and security. Mix plank lengths to stagger seams. Cut planks to create stagger if all same size. Overlap planks by at least 6 inches so joints are separated between rows. Consider distance between seams and randomized pattern. Use chalk line to find straight starting point, parallel to wall. Select long straight board to begin first row.
How Should Flooring be Staggered?
Plank flooring should be staggered 12-18 inches between rows to create a traditional look. Proper staggering of the laminate floor will result in very durable floors that can be maintained for decades to come.
The key to staggering the seams of your floor is mixing up the lengths of the planks you use. The first board of each row will set the foundation for your stagger pattern.
Staggering Vinyl Plank Flooring
The key to properly staggering vinyl flooring is to ensure that the first plank in every third row is at least two-three inches longer or shorter than the first planks in the two rows. This results in a neat, staggering pattern that also offers added structural stability.
The trick to stagger vinyl plank flooring successfully is to play around with the minimum spacing and laying down the planks randomly. After a few rows, you should get the hang of it.
Why Stagger Flooring?
The trick to properly laying your wood flooring is to stagger the seams so they appear random. This keeps your eye seeing the floor as a whole, instead of focusing on a straight line of wood seams.