How to Install Engineered Flooring: A Step-by-Step Guide
Engineered flooring is a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability, practicality, and aesthetic appeal. Unlike solid wood flooring, engineered flooring is made up of layers of wood veneer with a high-quality plywood or fiberboard core. This construction makes it more resistant to moisture and temperature fluctuations, making it suitable for various areas of the house, including basements and kitchens. If you’re considering installing engineered flooring in your home, this step-by-step guide will help you navigate the installation process.
Step 1: Measure and Prepare
Before you begin installing engineered flooring, it’s crucial to measure the room accurately to determine how much material you’ll need. Measure the length and width of the room, and multiply these measurements to get the square footage. Don’t forget to account for any closets or irregularly shaped areas within the room.
Once you have your measurements, it’s time to prepare the subfloor. Ensure that the subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Remove any existing flooring, nails, or staples, and fix any squeaks or loose boards. If the subfloor is concrete, make sure it’s fully cured and free of moisture.
Step 2: Acclimate the Flooring
Engineered flooring needs to acclimate to the environment it will be installed in. Place the unopened boxes of flooring in the room where it will be installed and let it sit for at least 48 hours. This allows the flooring to adjust and reach equilibrium with the temperature and humidity levels of the room.
During the acclimation period, ensure the room’s temperature and humidity are maintained within the manufacturer’s recommended range. This step helps prevent unwanted expansion or contraction of the flooring after installation.
Step 3: Lay the Underlayment
Underlayment is a thin layer of material that provides a cushioning effect, reduces noise, and helps prevent moisture from reaching the engineered flooring. Lay the underlayment according to the manufacturer’s instructions, starting from one corner of the room. Trim any excess material along the edges to ensure a snug fit.
Step 4: Plan the Flooring Layout
Before you start installing the engineered flooring, plan the layout to achieve the desired aesthetic and minimize waste. Start by finding the longest exterior wall in the room and snap a chalk line parallel to it, leaving an expansion gap of around ¼ inch. This gap allows the flooring to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity.
Next, dry lay a few rows of flooring along the chalk line to visualize the pattern and make any adjustments before fastening them down.
Step 5: Install the Flooring
Begin installation by placing the first row of flooring against the chalk line with the groove side facing the wall. Use spacers to maintain the expansion gap between the flooring and the wall. Secure the flooring by nailing or stapling it to the subfloor, following the manufacturer’s recommendations for fastener placement.
For subsequent rows, apply wood glue to the groove edge and slide the tongue into the groove of the previous row at an angle. Use a tapping block and mallet to ensure a tight fit. Continue installing rows, staggering the end joints for added stability.
Step 6: Complete the Installation
Once you have installed the flooring across the entire room, remove the spacers and install trim or baseboards to cover the expansion gap around the perimeter. Use a saw to trim the last row of flooring if necessary, leaving another ¼ inch expansion gap.
Finally, clean the engineered flooring using a recommended cleaner and enjoy your newly installed, beautiful and durable flooring.
Installing engineered flooring can be a rewarding and relatively straightforward DIY project if you follow the proper steps. Remember to measure and prepare your space, acclimate the flooring, lay underlayment, plan the layout, install the flooring with care, and complete the installation by adding the final touches. With some time and effort, you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of engineered flooring for years to come.