To install laminate wood floors, mark a reference point for the flooring, do a dry layout, apply the glue with a trowel, and install the flooring with a tongue-and-groove system. Use a rubber mallet and spacers to get laminate wood flooring in place with instructions from a home repair specialist in this free video on laminate wood floors.
Replacement Window Shopping Do's and Don'ts
Do’s
- Do some basic research before exposing yourself to any sales presentations. Learn about different types of replacement window systems to find your best option based on the condition of your existing windows. Gain a basic understanding of the performance properties of vinyl, wood, clad-wood and fiberglass windows along with their appearance characteristics. And learn about available glazing options and enhancements, including insulating glass, low-E glazing, gas-fills, tinted glass and laminated glass for noise reduction and enhanced security.
- Ask for referrals to replacement window dealer-installers from people you know and trust, preferably from individuals who have had replacement windows installed in their own homes.
- Get at least three proposals for comparable replacement window products and installation services.
- Check bidders’ references.
- Compare performance ratings of replacement window products that you’re considering using the statistics on their NFRC labels.
- Insist on a contract that includes detailed descriptions of the products and services to be provided, warranties for products and workmanship, start and end dates for installation, and a reasonable payment schedule that enables you to retain substantial financial leverage until all work is completed to your satisfaction.
Don’ts
- Don’t accept offers for consultations or sales pitches from unsolicited sources.
- Don’t let salespeople hold you hostage. If a presentation is too long and the pressure to buy too high, ask the person to leave.
- Don’t accept the lowest bid without assurance of the quality of the windows and the installation skills of the contractor.
- Don’t fall for bait-and-switch tactics. If you responded to an offer featuring a low price, be wary if the dealer tries to up-sell you to higher-priced products.
- Don’t let yourself be pressured into making a quick decision for a “better deal.” Don’t assume that name-brand replacement windows are better quality and value that windows made by a lesser-known local manufacturer.
- Don’t consider replacement windows that are not rated by the National Fenestration Rating Council.
- Don’t buy replacement windows that do not qualify for the federal energy tax credit under standards applicable to your region.
