How To Put Down Engineered Wood Flooring

When it comes to flooring, engineered wood flooring is a great way to add beauty and value to your home. It is made from a composite of plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF) with a thin layer of real wood on top. This makes it more durable than solid wood flooring and less likely to buckle or warp. If you are considering installing engineered wood flooring in your home, here are a few tips to help you get started.

1. Prepare the subfloor

The first step is to prepare the subfloor. This involves cleaning it and removing any debris. You will also need to level the subfloor if it is uneven. This can be done using a self-leveling compound or by adding shims to low spots.

2. Install the underlayment

Once the subfloor is prepared, you need to install the underlayment. This will help to protect the flooring from moisture and noise. There are a variety of underlayment products available, so be sure to choose one that is appropriate for your flooring and subfloor.

3. Starting and laying the first row

Starting point generally uses a full-length plank parallel to the longest wall in the room, leaving a 1/4-inch gap between the wall and end of the plank. Each piece is tongue-and-grooved so that they can be easily fitted together. Align the plank to the wall and start connecting each plank. Ensure to staggered end joints for a more stable floor.

4. Continue laying the floor

Once you have installed the first row, you can continue laying the floor. Work your way out from the starting point, laying the planks in rows. Be sure to stagger the joints between the rows to create a more stable floor.

5. Trim the planks

As you approach walls or obstacles, you will need to trim the planks to fit. This can be done using a miter saw or a circular saw. Be sure to measure carefully before cutting the planks.

6. Install the baseboards

Once the floor is installed, you can install the baseboards. Baseboards will help to hide the expansion gap between the floor and the wall and give your floor a finished look.

Installing engineered wood flooring is a relatively easy project that can be completed in a weekend. By following these tips, you can ensure that your floor is installed properly and will last for many years to come.