How to Install Engineered Hardwood Flooring: A Step-by-Step Guide
Installing engineered hardwood flooring is a rewarding DIY project that can transform the look of your home. Engineered hardwood offers the beauty of real wood combined with the durability and stability needed for various environments, making it a versatile choice for homeowners. Whether you’re installing it in a living room, bedroom, or even a basement, engineered hardwood can be installed using several methods, including floating, glue-down, or nail-down. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of installing engineered hardwood flooring, ensuring a smooth and successful installation.
Before you begin, it’s essential to prepare your space and gather the necessary tools and materials. Start by removing any existing flooring and ensuring that your subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Acclimate the engineered hardwood planks to the room’s temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours before installation. This helps prevent any issues with expansion or contraction after the flooring is installed. You’ll also need to decide on the installation method that best suits your space. For most DIYers, the floating method is the easiest, as it doesn’t require nails or glue and allows the floor to expand and contract with changes in humidity.
Step 1: Laying the First Row
The first step in installing engineered hardwood flooring is laying the first row of planks. Begin by placing spacers along the wall to maintain an expansion gap of about 1/4 inch. This gap allows the flooring to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity without causing buckling or warping. Start in the corner of the room and lay the first plank with the tongue side facing the wall. Use a tapping block and mallet to secure the plank in place, ensuring that it is snug against the spacers. Continue laying the first row, making sure the ends of the planks fit together tightly.
Once the first row is in place, it’s time to cut the last plank to fit. Measure the length needed, then use a saw to cut the plank accordingly. After cutting, attach the last plank in the row, ensuring it fits snugly against the previous plank. If the cut-off piece is long enough, you can use it to start the next row, which helps stagger the seams and creates a more natural look. Remember to continue using spacers along the walls as you move forward with the installation.
Step 2: Installing the Remaining Rows
With the first row complete, you can move on to installing the remaining rows of engineered hardwood. Stagger the seams by at least 6 inches to create a stronger, more aesthetically pleasing floor. For a floating installation, connect each plank by aligning the tongue and groove and tapping them into place with a tapping block. If you’re using the glue-down method, apply adhesive to the subfloor as you work, and press each plank firmly into the glue. For nail-down installations, nail the planks to the subfloor using a flooring nailer, ensuring that each plank is securely attached.
Continue laying planks row by row, checking periodically to ensure the rows remain straight and the seams are staggered. When you reach the final row, you may need to cut the planks to fit the remaining space. Measure the width needed, cut the planks accordingly, and install them using the same method as the previous rows. Once all the planks are in place, remove the spacers and install baseboards or quarter-round molding to cover the expansion gap. Your new engineered hardwood floor is now complete, adding beauty and value to your home for years to come.
