Installing Engineered Hardwood Floors: Glue-Down, Nail-Down, and Floating Methods
Engineered hardwood flooring offers the beauty of real wood with enhanced stability, making it a top choice for areas with fluctuating moisture levels. It can be installed over concrete or wood subfloors, making it ideal for basements and upper levels alike.
Why Install Engineered Hardwood?
- Real wood surface with layered construction
- Can be installed below grade
- Resists warping better than solid hardwood
Tools & Materials:
- Moisture meter
- Tape measure
- Chalk line
- Tapping block
- Flooring stapler or nailer
- Wood glue or adhesive (for glue-down)
- Underlayment (for floating method)
Popular Installation Methods:
1. Floating Floor Installation
Planks are clicked together over an underlayment. No adhesive or nails required.
“Floating floors are ideal for quick installs and minimize subfloor prep,” says John R., a veteran flooring contractor in Raleigh.
2. Glue-Down Installation
Recommended over concrete or radiant heat. Use a urethane-based adhesive.
“Always use trowel size as recommended by the adhesive manufacturer,” reminds flooring expert Dana S. “It ensures proper bonding and avoids hollow spots.”
3. Nail-Down Installation
Used over plywood subfloors. Requires proper fastener spacing and cleats/staples.
“Nail-down is still the gold standard for wood-on-wood installs,” notes Mike C., a certified NWFA installer. “But it requires precision and the right subfloor conditions.”
Step-by-Step Overview:
- Acclimate flooring 72 hours prior.
- Test moisture levels in subfloor and wood.
- Clean and level the surface.
- Layout planks, stagger seams.
- Proceed with chosen install method.
- Leave ½-inch expansion gaps.
- Clean and inspect the finished floor.