Here are the basics of how to install floating hardwood floors over concrete.
How to install wood flooring on concrete.
With dry concrete and the right subfloors and vapor retarders solid hardwood floors can be installed on slabs that are either on grade at ground level or above grade above ground level.
Whether you re planning on renting out your home or looking to increase its value using concrete as a base is a great idea.
Another method is to install a floating plywood subfloor consisting of two layers of 3 8 1 2 or 5 8 inch plywood attached together with short fasteners that won t penetrate the concrete.
However many homeowners are disappointed to discover that solid wood flooring cannot be installed on a concrete slab.
Most 3 4 inch solid hardwood flooring can be installed using nails or staples over an approved subfloor.
Laminate flooring is a good alternative to wood flooring in basements.
Laminate flooring is also fairly easy to install.
When you install hardwood floors concrete is one of the best bases to work from there are only a few steps to take.
The most straightforward method is not to attach it but float the floor on top.
Plywood to the concrete.
Wood floor over concrete details lay a plastic moisture barrier and then screw 3 4 in.
Many types of flooring can be installed over a concrete sub floor.
Follow these steps with care to safely complete the installation yourself.
Most engineered flooring can be installed using staples full spread adhesive or a floating method over an approved subfloor.
Most people can install this type of hardwood flooring as long as they are willing to do a little bit of work.
How to install hardwood over concrete 3 methods.
Apply adhesive and flooring always read manufacturer s instructions when applying the adhesive.
Using a v notch trowel apply the adhesive to floor in small sections.
Moisture can pose problems for solid hardwood floors below ground level so engineered wood floors made of layers of wood glued together are the best choice there.
Wood planks to the plywood.
Only spread enough for a few rows at a time.
You can attach it directly to the concrete or install a subfloor first and then attach the floor to that.
There are three ways to lay a floor over concrete.
The hard way nails or screws.
Stack flooring log cabin style or just spread it around the room but not directly on concrete.