A DIY Guide to Installing Engineered Hardwood Flooring
The experts at Hardwood Planet walk you through the process and provide valuable tips and tricks to ensure a successful DIY installation.
23/11/2023
Choosing engineered hardwood flooring is a fantastic way to add warmth and elegance to your home. What's even better is that with a bit of time, patience, and the right tools, you can install engineered hardwood flooring yourself. In this guide, the experts at Hardwood Planet walk you through the process and provide valuable tips and tricks to ensure a successful DIY installation.
Gather the Right Tools and Materials
Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. This includes the engineered hardwood flooring of your choice, adhesive or underlayment, a saw, a moisture barrier, a tape measure, a rubber mallet, and safety gear.
Prepare the Subfloor
A crucial step in the installation process is preparing the subfloor. Ensure it is clean, level, and free from any debris. If there are uneven areas, use a self-leveling compound to create a smooth surface. Also, check the moisture levels to prevent future issues with your hardwood flooring.
Acclimate the Flooring
Before installation, allow the engineered hardwood planks to acclimate to the room's temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours. This helps prevent expansion or contraction after installation.
Plan the Layout
Carefully plan the layout of your flooring, considering the room's shape and natural light sources. Start by laying out the first row along the longest wall, leaving a 1/2-inch gap between the flooring and the walls to allow for expansion.
Install the Underlayment
Lay down a moisture barrier or underlayment material to protect your hardwood from moisture and provide a cushioning effect. This is especially important if you're installing the flooring over a concrete subfloor.
Install the First Row
Begin installing the first row by applying adhesive to the tongue of the planks and connecting them snugly together. Use a rubber mallet to gently tap the planks into place. Remember to stagger the end joints for a more natural look.
Cutting and Fitting
As you progress, you'll likely need to cut planks to fit the perimeter of the room and around obstacles like door frames. Measure and mark carefully before making cuts, and always double-check your measurements to avoid waste.
Maintain Expansion Gaps
Throughout the installation, maintain consistent expansion gaps by using spacers between the flooring and the walls. This ensures the wood has room to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity.
Use a Tapping Block
A tapping block is an essential tool for ensuring a tight fit between planks. Place the block against the edge of the plank and tap it with a mallet to eliminate gaps and create a seamless appearance.
Finishing Touches
Once the main installation is complete, install any necessary trim, such as baseboards or quarter-round molding, to cover the expansion gaps and provide a polished finish.
Conclusion
With the right tools, careful planning, and attention to detail, installing engineered hardwood flooring can be a rewarding DIY project. Follow these tips and tricks to achieve a professional-looking result that enhances the beauty of your home while saving on installation costs. Remember, patience is key, so take your time and enjoy the process of transforming your space with gorgeous engineered hardwood flooring.