How To Lay Engineered Oak Flooring On Concrete

How to Lay Engineered Oak Flooring on Concrete

Laying engineered oak flooring on concrete is a slightly more complex process compared to installing it over wood, but it's still possible with the right preparation and some extra steps. Engineered oak flooring consists of a thin layer of real oak over a plywood or fiberboard base, making it dimensionally stable and less prone to movement than solid hardwood. The process involves creating a subfloor, installing a moisture barrier, and then laying the flooring.

Creating a Subfloor

A subfloor is a layer of plywood that will serve as a stable base for the flooring. Start by making sure the concrete floor is clean, level, and dry with a moisture content of no more than 3%. Install 1/4-inch plywood over the concrete using screws or construction adhesive. Leave a 1/4-inch gap around the perimeter to allow for expansion and contraction.

Installing a Moisture Barrier

A moisture barrier is crucial to prevent moisture from seeping through the concrete and damaging the flooring. Roll out a polyethylene sheeting over the subfloor, overlapping the edges by at least 6 inches. Secure it with tape along the seams and perimeter.

Laying the Flooring

Start by measuring and marking a straight line along one wall as the starting point. Then, apply a thin layer of adhesive specifically designed for engineered oak flooring to the subfloor. Place the first row of planks along the starting line and tap them into place using a tapping block and hammer. Continue laying the flooring row by row, staggering the joints like bricks in a wall. Use spacers to ensure consistent gaps between the planks.

Expanding the Flooring

As you lay the flooring, remember to leave a 1/4-inch gap around the perimeter to allow for expansion and contraction. You can use spacers to maintain this gap. Once the flooring is installed, remove the spacers and install baseboards to cover the gaps and secure the flooring.

Final Touches

After installing the flooring, inspect it for any loose or protruding nails or screws. Hammer them down flush with the surface. Clean the flooring thoroughly to remove any dust or debris. You can apply a protective finish, such as polyurethane or oil, to enhance its durability and appearance.