Installing Engineered Wood Flooring Over Plywood Subfloor

Installing Engineered Wood Flooring Over Plywood Subfloor: Essential Aspects

Installing engineered wood flooring over a plywood subfloor is an excellent way to enhance the beauty and durability of your home. Engineered wood flooring is dimensionally stable and less likely to expand or contract with changes in temperature or humidity than solid wood flooring. It is also more resistant to moisture and wear, making it a great choice for areas with high traffic or spills.

Here are the essential aspects to consider when installing engineered wood flooring over a plywood subfloor:

1. Subfloor Preparation

The plywood subfloor must be level, flat, and dry before installing the engineered wood flooring. Any unevenness or imperfections in the subfloor will be transferred to the flooring, so it is essential to correct any issues before proceeding.

Begin by inspecting the subfloor for any loose or damaged plywood sheets. Replace any damaged sheets and secure any loose sheets with nails or screws. Next, use a level to check the flatness of the subfloor. If there are any dips or humps, use a floor leveler to smooth out the surface.

2. Moisture Barrier

A moisture barrier is essential to prevent moisture from seeping up from the subfloor and damaging the engineered wood flooring. Use a polyethylene plastic sheeting with a thickness of at least 6 mil. Overlap the sheeting by at least 6 inches and tape the seams with moisture-resistant tape.

3. Underlayment

Underlayment is installed over the moisture barrier to provide a cushion for the engineered wood flooring and reduce noise. There are various types of underlayment available, including cork, foam, and rubber. Choose an underlayment that is compatible with your engineered wood flooring and provides the desired level of cushioning.

4. Installation

Engineered wood flooring can be installed using either a floating or glue-down method. The floating method involves attaching the planks together with a tongue-and-groove system and allowing them to float freely over the subfloor. The glue-down method involves adhering the planks directly to the subfloor using an adhesive.

The installation method you choose will depend on the type of engineered wood flooring you have and the subfloor conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the installation method.

5. Finishing

Once the engineered wood flooring is installed, it needs to be finished to protect it from wear and tear. You can apply a finish such as polyurethane, wax, or oil. The type of finish you choose will depend on the desired look and the traffic level in the room.