Yes, laminate typically needs adhesive for installation. Laminate flooring and laminate countertops, for example, are commonly installed using adhesive to bond them to the underlying surface. The type of adhesive used can vary depending on the specific laminate product and the installation method.

For laminate flooring, there are generally two main types of adhesive:

  1. Click-and-Lock Laminate: Many laminate flooring products are designed with a click-and-lock or tongue-and-groove system that doesn’t require adhesive. These planks simply snap together, creating a floating floor that sits on top of the subfloor without glue.
  2. Glue-Down Laminate: Some laminate flooring products, especially those designed for commercial or high-traffic areas, may require adhesive for a more secure installation. In this case, a specific laminate flooring adhesive is applied to the subfloor, and the laminate planks are pressed onto the adhesive.

For laminate countertops, adhesive is typically used to secure the laminate surface to a substrate (often particleboard or MDF) that forms the core of the countertop. The adhesive ensures a strong and permanent bond between the laminate sheet and the substrate.

In both cases, it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions and use the recommended adhesive for the specific laminate product you are working with. Using the right adhesive and following proper installation techniques will help ensure a successful and long-lasting installation.