How To Install Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Engineered hardwood flooring is a type of flooring that is made of multiple layers of wood. The top layer is usually made of harder wood, while the bottom layer is made of softer wood. This type of flooring is more durable than traditional hardwood flooring, and it can be installed over most types of floors, including concrete and wood.
Read more as we’re going to talk about how to install engineered hardwood flooring in today’s article.
How It Differs From Traditional Hardwood Flooring
The key difference between engineered hardwood and traditional hardwood flooring is that conventional hardwood floors are made of one solid piece of wood, while engineered hardwood floors are made up of several layers of wood. The top layer is the actual hardwood, while the bottom layers are composed of different kinds of wood that are softer than the top. This makes engineered hardwood more stable than traditional hardwood, and less likely to warp over time.
As mentioned, engineered hardwood flooring can be installed over concrete, plywood, or existing hardwood floors. It can also be installed using the floating method, where the boards are not attached to anything, or the glue-down method, where the boards are glued to the subfloor.
Primary Considerations
If you are considering engineered hardwood flooring for your home, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- The thickness of the top layer of hardwood will affect how long the floors will last. The thicker the top layer, the more long-lasting it is.
- The type of wood you choose for the top layer will also affect the durability of the floors. Harder woods, such as oak and maple, will be more durable than softer woods, such as pine.
- Engineered hardwood can be refinished, just like traditional hardwood. However, you can only sand and refinish the top layer of hardwood.
- Engineered hardwood floors are easier to install than traditional hardwood floors because the boards can be glued down or installed using the floating method.
Proper Installation Procedure
Here are some tips on installing engineered hardwood flooring:
- Before you start, make sure that the subfloor is clean and free of debris. If there is any old flooring or adhesive on the subfloor, remove it before proceeding.
- Choose the direction that you want the flooring to run in. It is best to install engineered hardwood flooring perpendicular to the direction of the sunlight.
- Start by installing the first row of flooring, making sure that the boards are aligned properly. Use a chalk line to help you keep the boards straight.
- When you get to the end of the first row, cut the boards to fit. You can use a jigsaw for this task.
- Continue installing the rest of the rows, making sure to stagger the joints so that they are not directly lined up with each other.
- When you reach the last row, again cut the boards to fit. You may have to rip some of the boards (cut them lengthwise) to get them to fit properly.
- Once all of the flooring is installed, you can trim any excess off of the ends of the boards using a saw.
- Finally, install any transition strips between the engineered hardwood flooring and other types of flooring. These strips will help to create a seamless look.
Tools And Equipment Used
Installation of engineered hardwood floors typically requires some basic tools and equipment. These may include a tape measure, hammer, level, pry bar, saw (either manual or power), and drill.
In addition, you may also need some specialized tools depending on the type of engineered hardwood flooring you are installing and the surface you are installing it on. For example, if you are installing engineered hardwood flooring over a concrete subfloor, you will need a moisture barrier and appropriate fasteners.
What Is The Average Price Of Engineered Hardwood Flooring
The average price of engineered hardwood floors can vary depending on the quality of wood to be installed, the thickness of the planks, and where you purchase it from. Typically, you can expect to spend anywhere from $3 to $10 per square foot. Of course, there are always exceptions, so it’s best to compare prices from multiple retailers before making a purchase. You can also check out California Flooring and Design, San Diego’s largest hardwood provider, as they offer the best deals in engineered hardwood flooring.