HARDWOOD FLOOR INSTALLATION
The world of hardwood floor installation can be a tricky one to navigate. The installation method depends on the type of hardwood floor product, the needs of the space, type of subfloor, and sometimes even the wood species. The acclimatization process and humidity requirements also vary between product types and species, and if done wrong, in some cases can actually destroy the product. That is why Metro Hardwood Floors strives to educate clients right from the beginning, before making a purchase, about the installation process that can be expected for each specific product. Additionally, a dedicated project manager will work with you before, during and after your hardwood flooring installation to supervise our talented team of installers and ensure your new floor is put in correctly, quickly, and with as minimal of an impact on your home as possible.
Wood Floor Installation
Metro’s wide range of prefinished solid, engineered and laminate hardwood products are meant to minimize installation time and maximize convenience. Still, some clients prefer an unfinished domestic or exotic hardwood flooring product that is finished on-site for a custom look. This type of hardwood floor installation can take a considerable amount of time, which is why it is even more important to have a capable team that is working with you every step of the way.
If you have any questions about hardwood installation, contact us today.
Types of Hardwood Flooring Installation Techniques
Nail or Staple
Using a pneumatic or manual nailer, or staple gun, the hardwood is fastened directly onto the subfloor, fitting together (usually in a tongue and groove formation) as it is installed. Not surprisingly, this method takes the most physical effort and a moderate amount of time to complete. Nail down installation is the most common for solid hardwood floors, and generally not recommended for engineered hardwood. It is important to note this hardwood installation method is not appropriate for a subfloor with radiant heat.
Glue
Using a strong adhesive, the hardwood is adhered directly to the subfloor. The main advantage of glue down installation is that it can be done on almost any subfloor, including concrete and plywood. This installation method is most common among engineered hardwood floors, parquet flooring and cork flooring and generally not recommended for solid hardwood products. It is arguably the most durable and longest lasting of all the installation methods, but because of the permanency of the adhesives used, this method is not recommended for areas where the subfloor needs to be preserved.
Floating
The fastest and easiest method of installation, floating installation involves putting a pad over the subfloor to protect against moisture and reduce noise, then laying the hardwood or laminate floors overtop. That involves either adhering the boards together or snapping them together depending on the individual product. The floating method is most common for laminate flooring installation, but can also be used for some engineered products. Because a floating installation can be done over almost any surface, it is ideal for basements or other areas where there is no subfloor to nail to.
