Do You Glue Laminate Flooring? Complete Installation Guide: Everything Homeowners & DIY Remodelers Need to Know About Laminate Flooring Adhesives

One of the most common questions I get as a senior interior designer is: do you glue laminate flooring, or just snap it together? Whether you’re remodeling your own home, tackling a rental flip, or guiding a client through a new build, flooring mistakes can be time-consuming (and wallet-straining). Let me break down when, why, and how glue comes into play with laminate flooring installation—and what happens if you skip that step.

For most modern laminate floor installations, gluing is actually not required. Most systems today use a click-and-lock or tongue-and-groove design that stays together through friction and precise shape. But there are a handful of situations where a bit of glue (or even a lot) is essential—especially in areas with lots of moisture, or with specific types or brands of laminate.

Choose the Right Tools

If you’re planning to lay laminate yourself, you won’t need much more than a tapping block, spacers, a pull bar, and a standard saw. But for installations in bathrooms, kitchens, or climates with humidity swings, keeping a high-quality laminate adhesive on hand is smart. On a project in Seattle last fall, I advised the team to glue the planks along the short ends near patio doors—just as a splash precaution. Little details like this can extend your floor’s life by years.

Level of Detail & Time

Laminate flooring is designed to be fast. An average 12x15 bedroom might take a novice DIYer six to eight hours. Adding glue, however, slows things down. You’ll need to apply a small bead inside the groove, secure planks tightly, then wipe up any excess—while working fast enough so the adhesive doesn’t start to set before you finish a row. In my experience, gluing usually adds about 25% more time to the project. The reward? Boards are less likely to separate or flex over time—especially in high-traffic or potentially wet zones.

Common Mistakes & Fixes

The biggest mistake? Gluing an entire floating laminate floor directly to the subfloor. This cancels out the benefits of floating installation and risks buckling as the floor expands and contracts. Instead, only glue plank-to-plank connections when needed. If your space is open-plan, always follow manufacturer guidelines. On one project, a client used an incorrect construction adhesive and found the ends lifting a month later—so always source the recommended glue or a product designed specifically for laminate floors.

Client Collaboration Insights

When collaborating with homeowners using a free floor plan creator to visualize their new space, I encourage them to consider their lifestyle. Are there pets? Kids? A history of washing machine leaks? If yes, a little strategic gluing around water-prone zones is worth the extra step for peace of mind. I often share stories of past clients whose carefully planned layouts saved them thousands on future repairs because they spent a bit extra time ensuring proper sealing during installation. Apps that simulate wear and tear can help you visualize vulnerable areas.

Case Studies & Real Examples

Let’s talk real numbers: According to Statista 2025, nearly 80% of US laminate installations are done floating—without glue. However, in my own portfolio, every time I’ve specified glue for planks near exterior entries or in sunrooms, it’s clearly minimized issues with movement and moisture. One memorable case: a busy daycare center in Denver, where we glued the first and last row for added stability (with locker room-grade adhesive!). Even after three years of stomping boots and snack spills, the floor still looks flawless.

FAQ

Do you glue laminate flooring to the subfloor?

No. Most laminate is designed to float above the subfloor. Only glue the planks together along edges if needed—never to the subfloor itself.

When should you use adhesive on laminate?

Only in high-moisture areas (such as bathrooms or laundry rooms), at exterior doors, or if recommended by the manufacturer. Otherwise, click-lock systems are secure enough on their own.

Does glue make laminate flooring waterproof?

Glue can boost water resistance between planks, but it doesn’t make laminate truly waterproof. For better moisture performance, consider the layout with a room planning tool and discuss upgrades like waterproof core laminates.

How much longer does gluing take?

Expect about 25% more time for each room, especially for inexperienced DIYers. Proper cleaning of excess glue is essential.

What glue is best?

Specialty laminate flooring glue (PVA type) is recommended. Do not use generic wood glue or construction adhesive, as it may cause damage to boards.

Can you glue laminate flooring on stairs?

Yes! In fact, on stair treads and risers, glue and nails are both recommended for security and long-term performance.

What are signs I did the glue step wrong?

If boards squeak, separate, or feel loose after installation, you may have used too little glue or skipped essential spots. Check for gaps and redo if necessary.

Can gluing fix creaky laminate?

In some cases, applying glue to loose planks and pressing them tight can help. Persistent creaks, however, may indicate subfloor problems.

Does every brand require gluing?

No. Most modern brands rely on click-lock installation. Always check your packaging or manufacturer's website before starting.

Are there eco-friendly laminate adhesives?

Yes, low-VOC, formaldehyde-free adhesives are available. These are safest for pets, kids, and allergy-prone households.

What tools make gluing easier?

Use a small squeeze bottle for precision, gloves to protect skin, and keep a damp cloth on hand to wipe up overflow immediately.

Any tips for first-time installers?

Take your time, work in small sections, and dry-lay planks before gluing so your pattern stays organized. Watching a pro demo—like on Houzz or YouTube—can help, too!