Transition from tile to laminate

This article is about how to install transition from tile to laminate. Either you install laminate around ceramic tiles, or tiles around laminate flooring, you have to use a transition as to hide the height difference and to get a nice appearance. When the transition from tile to laminate is under the door, you have to make sure you will install it parallel with the door, as to obtain a nice effect.

On the market there are several types of transitions, starting with the most common ones based on a U-shaped metal track, up to the adjustable transition strips. The former type requires the installation of a metal track by fastening several screws and snapping the transition in it. This option is best when the flooring is already installed on both sides of the transition. The adjustable transition strips are ideal when there is a height difference between the laminate and the ceramic tile flooring.

All you have to do is to install the transition (by using our guidelines) and then to tap it with a mallet, until it fits perfectly. In addition, if you are in the process of installing flooring on any side of the transition, the adjustable trim is the best choice, as you can fit it perfectly. For larger areas with height differences, you could also install the first model, but you have to make a few cuts to fit the location. Don’t forget to check out the rest of the ceramic tile and laminate flooring projects.

Made from this plan

In order to install a transition from tile to laminate, you need the following:

Materials

Water
Thinset mortar / premixed mastic
Transition from tile to laminate

Tools

Safety gloves, eye protection
Drill machinery with mixing palette
Bucket, Rubber hammer

Tips

Read carefully the manufacturer’s instructions

Time

30 minutes

Fitting transition from tile to laminate

Measuring door opening

First of all, you have to measure the door opening by using a tape measurement, as to determine the length at which you have to cut the transition.

There are some cases in which there is enough space as to install the transition between tile to laminate, under the door jamb. Nevertheless, in most of the cases you should install the transition between the door jamb. Irrespective of the situation, you should take accurate measurements, as to avoid making mistakes.

Marking cut line on transition strip

Next, you have to use the tape measurement and a pencil, to mark the cutting line on the transition strip. We kindly recommend you to pay attention to these steps, otherwise you risk cutting it too short. In that cases, you have to buy another transition.

Cutting transition strip

After you have marked the cutting line on the transition between tile and laminate, you should place it in the miter box. Next, you should use a sharp hacksaw to cut the transition.

Installing transition between tile to laminate

After you have cut the transition, you should install it into location, to check if it fits between door jamb. If it is bigger, than you should redo the measurements and cut it again. On the contrary, if it’s too short, you have no option than to buy another transition.

In our case, we had to install ceramic tile toward the bedroom, which had a laminate flooring. Consequently, we installed the transition strip with the base oriented towards the ceramic tile floor, as to weight of the adhesive and of the tiles would secure it tightly into position.

Installing transition from tile to laminate

Measuring ceramic tile

Afterwards, you have to inset the tiles in the channel of the transition strip and make several marks, as to cut them properly. In order to cut ceramic tiles, you can use a wet saw or a tile scorer. You can read more on how to cut ceramic tiles, by checking out our article.

It is important to pay attention to this step, otherwise you risk making serious mistakes. Taking accurate measurements represents on of the essential tasks when installing transition from tile to laminate.

Checking the fit of the transition

After you have cut the ceramic tiles, you have to lay them into position (without using tile adhesive), as to check if the cuts are accurate. If you face any issues, it is better to take again the measurements and cut them properly.

Spreading tile adhesive on floor

After you are sure that the tiles and the transition from them to laminate are cut in a proper manner, you should spread the adhesive on the floor. Mixing ceramic tile adhesive is not a complex task, provided you use the right materials and tool.

Installing tile to laminate transition

Next, you should install the ceramic tiles in the transition, one by one, starting with one corner. When installing the tiles, you have to make sure the transition is secured properly into position, and parallel with the door, otherwise you will get a poor appearance.

Installing spacers between tiles

As to do the job in a professional manner, you should use spacers between the ceramic tiles. In this way the gaps between the tiles will be even from one end to the other. Place the spacers between the tiles, as in the image.

Tapping tiles to make them level

After you have installed the tiles, you have to tap them gently as to make sure they are level. Last but not least, you should use a sponge and some water, to clean the area off adhesive.

Best tips to install transition from tile to laminate

Transitioning from tile to laminate flooring can create a clean, professional look when done right. Here are my best tips for achieving a smooth and seamless transition:

1. Choose the Right Transition Strip: Depending on the height difference between your tile and laminate, choose a transition strip that fits your needs. Options include T-molding for floors of equal height, or reducer strips if there’s a slight height difference. Metal, wood, or vinyl strips are all available to match your style.

2. Allow for Expansion: Laminate flooring requires an expansion gap to allow for natural movement. Make sure you leave about a 1/4 inch gap between the laminate and the tile. The transition strip will cover this gap while still allowing the laminate to expand and contract.

3. Install a Transition Track: For many transition strips, you’ll need to install a track between the tile and laminate. Screw or glue the track in place, ensuring it’s centered between the two flooring types. The transition strip will snap into the track, making installation simple.

4. Cut Transition Strips to Fit: Measure the length of your transition area carefully and cut the transition strip to size with a hacksaw or miter saw. Make sure the strip is snug, but not too tight, to avoid buckling or popping out over time.

5. Level the Subfloor: If there’s a significant height difference between the tile and laminate, you may need to use a floor leveler to raise the lower floor or use a transition strip with a sloped profile to create a smooth transition.

6. Use Caulk for Small Gaps: If there’s a slight gap between the transition strip and either the tile or laminate, use color-matching caulk to fill in the space. This ensures a clean, seamless look while still allowing the floors to move naturally.

7. Secure with Adhesive or Screws: Depending on the type of transition strip, secure it using adhesive (for glue-down strips) or screws (for metal or wood strips). Make sure it’s firmly in place to avoid any movement or gaps over time.

8. Test for Stability: Once installed, step on the transition strip to ensure it’s secure and doesn’t shift. A well-installed transition strip should feel solid underfoot without any movement.

By following these tips, you’ll create a smooth, durable transition between tile and laminate flooring that looks polished and professional, while also accommodating the natural movement of the floors.

Thank you for reading our article on how to install transition from tile to laminate and we recommend you to check out the rest of our projects. Please share our articles with your friends, by using the social media widgets.

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