How Do You Install Floating Engineered Wood Flooring On Concrete

Floating engineered wood flooring is a popular choice for homeowners who want the look of hardwood floors without the high cost or maintenance. It is also a good option for homes with concrete subfloors, as it can be installed directly over the concrete without the need for a separate underlayment. However, there are a few things you need to know before you begin installing floating engineered wood flooring on concrete.

First, you need to make sure that the concrete subfloor is level and smooth. Any unevenness in the subfloor will cause the flooring to buckle or crack. You can level the concrete subfloor by using a self-leveling compound or by grinding down any high spots.

Once the subfloor is level and smooth, you can begin installing the flooring. The first step is to lay down a vapor barrier. A vapor barrier will prevent moisture from seeping up from the concrete and damaging the flooring. You can use a plastic sheet or a rubberized vapor barrier.

Once the vapor barrier is in place, you can start laying down the flooring. Start by laying down the first row of planks along the longest wall in the room. Make sure that the planks are flush with the wall and that there is a small gap between the planks and the wall. You can use spacers to help you create the gap.

Once the first row is in place, you can continue laying down the rest of the flooring. Work your way across the room, row by row, until the floor is complete. Make sure that you stagger the joints between the planks to create a more stable floor.

Once the flooring is installed, you can trim the edges around the perimeter of the room. You can use a jigsaw or a circular saw to cut the planks to size. Make sure that you leave a small gap between the planks and the wall to allow for expansion and contraction.

Finally, you can install the baseboards and moldings to finish off the floor. Baseboards will help to hide the gap between the flooring and the wall, and moldings will add a decorative touch to the floor.

Installing floating engineered wood flooring on concrete is a relatively easy project that can be completed in a weekend. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure that the floor is installed properly and will last for many years to come.