How to Lay Chipboard Flooring

How to Lay Chipboard Flooring

Chipboard flooring is a durable, cost-effective solution for creating a strong, squeak-free base in homes and commercial settings. Easy to install and available in moisture-resistant grades like P5 chipboard, it’s an excellent choice for kitchens, bathrooms and general flooring applications.

In this guide, we’ll take you through a step-by-step process to lay chipboard flooring, ensuring a professional finish for your project.

What You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials:

  • P5 chipboard flooring panels (available from MSS Timber)
  • Adhesive or glue (for tongue-and-groove joints)
  • Nails or screws (to secure boards to joists)
  • Measuring tape
  • Circular saw or jigsaw (for cutting boards)
  • Spirit level
  • Hammer or screwdriver
  • Safety gear (gloves and goggles)

Having these items ready will help you complete the project efficiently.

Preparation

Proper preparation is key to a successful installation. Follow these steps:

1. Prepare the Subfloor:

Ensure that the joists or subfloor are level, clean and free of debris. Uneven surfaces can compromise the stability of your chipboard flooring. Check that the joist spacing matches the chipboard’s requirements, typically 400-600mm apart.

2. Acclimatise the Boards:

Allow the chipboard panels to sit in the room for 48 hours before installation. This helps them adjust to the room's temperature and humidity, minimising the risk of expansion or contraction after installation.

3. Plan the Layout:

Dry-lay the chipboard panels to determine the best layout. This will help you align the boards correctly and minimise the number of cuts needed.

Step-by-Step Guide to Laying Chipboard Flooring

Follow these simple steps to lay your chipboard flooring:

Step 1: Start in a Corner

Begin in one corner of the room, laying the first chipboard panel with the tongue side facing outward. Ensure the board is positioned securely over the joists.

Step 2: Apply Adhesive

Apply adhesive to the groove of the next board before slotting it into the tongue of the first panel. This creates a secure, tight joint, reducing movement and squeaking over time.

Step 3: Secure the Boards

Fasten the chipboard panels to the joists using nails or screws. Place the fasteners approximately 150mm apart along the edges and 300mm apart in the center of the board. Avoid overtightening, which can damage the board.

Step 4: Stagger the Joints

Stagger the joints of the boards in adjacent rows to improve the floor’s overall strength and stability. This prevents weak points and creates a more durable structure.

Step 5: Trim Excess

Use a circular saw or jigsaw to cut the boards to fit around edges, door frames or any obstacles in the room. Ensure the cuts are precise for a snug fit.

Step 6: Leave Expansion Gaps

Leave a 10-12mm gap between the edges of the floor and the walls to allow for natural expansion and contraction. These gaps can be covered with skirting boards once the flooring is complete.

Finishing Touches

Once all the boards are laid, check for levelness and ensure all edges are securely fastened. Sand down any rough areas if necessary to create a smooth, even surface. For areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens or bathrooms, consider sealing the chipboard with a moisture-resistant finish for added protection. Finally, you can install your chosen floor covering, such as carpet, laminate or vinyl, on top of the chipboard base.

Why Choose MSS Timber for Chipboard Flooring?

At MSS Timber, we take pride in supplying high-quality P5 chipboard flooring, specially designed for strength, moisture resistance and easy installation. Whether you’re laying a new floor or renovating an existing one, our chipboard provides a reliable, long-lasting solution. With delivery available across the West Midlands and free click-and-collect from our Soho Road location in Birmingham, getting the materials you need has never been easier.