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How to install engineered hardwood



If you are considering installing engineered hardwood, there are a few things you should know. First I am going to to talk about the tools necessary to do the job, then I will get into the installation process. In this article I am going to cover the glue down installation method.

The tools necessary for installation are:
1.) Hand-scraper (used for scraping up adhesives and other contaminates from the sub-floor.)
2.) Broom and dust pan.
3.) Door jamb saw. (this tool is used for under-cutting the door facings)
4.) Trowel (used to spread adhesive)
5.) 6-8 foot straight edge. (used for checking the sub-floor for imperfections or undulations.)
6.) Chop/Miter saw.
7.) Table saw.
8.) Adhesive (Urethane is preferred)
9.) Pry-bar
10.) Rubber Mallet. This tool may or may not be necessary, this will depend on how well the product goes together. A rubber mallet may damage the finish; so be careful when using one.
11.) Floor leveling compound or floor patch.
12.) Wood chisel.
13.) Chalk line
14.) Tape measure.
15.) Blue tape (orange core only) Once again this may or may not be necessary. Blue tape can also damage the finish. Be careful.
16.) Moisture Meter. (Used for testing concrete or wood sub-floors.) If The moisture content is high, refer to my previous article titled "Water and Wood" to resolve the issue.
17.) Brown craft paper. (Used for covering the new flooring)

Having the proper tools is essential to achieving a quality installation.

Installing the hardwood is much easier when you have the proper tools. The first step to installing the wood floor is to remove any unwanted contaminates that may be on the floor. After that, check the sub-floor for any imperfections. Once that is done, you may begin leveling the sub-floor. The floor must be level within 3/16" of an inch over 8 feet, or 1/4" over an 10 foot span. Next, take your tape measure and start marking the floor for chalk lines. Find a straight wall and measure approximately 2 1/2 feet from the wall towards the center of the room. Do this on both ends of the wall. Following this pattern, work in 2 1/2 foot sections, going across the room until the installation is complete. Install the material following the longest wall. (For instance, if you room is a 12x22 install the material along the 22 foot wall.) I recommend popping a chalk line no wider than 2 1/2 feet at a time, this will help keep you from making a mess with the adhesive. Start installing the floor by nailing off a starter board to keep you first row straight. Face the tongue of the floor towards the wall and stay off the material while working. Working on top of the floor is not recommended, it can cause the floor to shift, leaving gaps in the material. It is also recommended to clean any adhesive that gets on the floor immediately. I personally recommend using brown craft paper and cover each section as you go, this keeps people from tracking glue everywhere. By following these steps you will get a clean quality installation.
This is not a difficult process, however it can be very strenuous and time consuming.
Wishing you much success.
The Floor Man
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Comments

  1. FloorsaveApril 10, 2020 at 3:28 AM

    Nice Blog. I so agree with you wood Flooring not only beautify your home but adds value to your home. Grey Engineered Herringbone Flooring is trending now days.

    ReplyDelete

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