How To
Install Hardwood Flooring
Getting Started or Ready to Install your Floor?
You can install prefinished hardwood flooring with one of these methods:
You will need most of the general tools and materials plus anything specific for your installation method.
NOTE: *You may need additional tools/materials for your installation method.
Prefinished hardwood flooring can be installed in areas that are Above Grade or On Grade over these types of subfloors:
Prefinished hardwood should NOT be installed in Below Grade areas (such as basements) unless specifically approved by the manufacturer due to the excess moisture typical in these areas.
NOTE: You can perform a Polyethylene Moisture Test on concrete slabs. Tape several 12"x12" pieces of plastic sheeting to the subfloor. If after 24 hours any condensation forms, you must perform a Calcium Chloride and pH Alkalinity test. It's a good idea to perform these tests anyway as excessive subfloor moisture can cause major problems in the long run.
Install your cork, foam, plastic sheeting or other underlayment according to
the manufacturer's recommendations. If using the glue down method, make sure the
underlayment you use is specifically designed for a glue down installation.