How To Lay Engineered Wood Flooring On Floorboards

Laying Engineered Wood Flooring on Floorboards: A Step-by-Step Guide

Engineered wood flooring is a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability, low maintenance, and timeless appeal. Installing engineered wood flooring on floorboards is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed in a few hours.

Step 1: Prepare the Subfloor

Before laying the engineered wood flooring, it's essential to ensure the subfloor is level, dry, and free from any debris or imperfections. If the floorboards are uneven, you may need to level them using a self-leveling compound.

Step 2: Choose the Right Flooring Adhesive

The type of adhesive you use will depend on the type of engineered wood flooring you have. Some flooring requires a specific type of adhesive, while others can use a general-purpose adhesive.

Step 3: Lay the First Row

Start by laying the first row of engineered wood flooring along the longest wall. Use spacers to maintain a consistent gap between the planks and the wall. Apply a thin bead of adhesive to the bottom of each plank and firmly press it into place.

Step 4: Continue Laying the Flooring

Once the first row is complete, continue laying the flooring by staggering the joints between the planks. Make sure the planks are tightly fitted together and that there are no gaps between them.

Step 5: Cut and Fit the Planks

As you reach obstacles such as doorways or corners, you will need to cut and fit the planks to size. A miter saw or circular saw can be used to make precise cuts. Use a chisel or utility knife to trim the edges of the planks if necessary.

Step 6: Install the Trim

Once the flooring is laid, you can install trim around the edges of the room to conceal any gaps. Trim can be nailed or glued into place. Use a caulk gun to fill any small gaps between the trim and the wall or flooring.

Step 7: Sand and Finish

If your engineered wood flooring has an unfinished surface, you will need to sand and finish it before walking on it. Use a fine-grit sandpaper to sand the surface, then apply a polyurethane finish to protect it from wear and tear.