Flooring Installation 101: Unraveling the Maze (Methods & Considerations)

Navigating the Flooring Maze: A Deep Dive into Installation Methods and Considerations

When it comes to flooring, the battle between floating floors, nailed and glued-down floors takes center stage, especially in the context of your home. Today, we'll dissect the nuances of these installation methods, exploring their advantages, drawbacks, and the crucial factors you need to consider.

Floating Floors: Maneuverability and Convenience

A floating floor "floats" on top of the subfloor, typically with a paper or foam underlayment in between. This method provides a comfortable walking surface. Using an underlayment with an acoustical sound barrier is recommended for the Floating Method.

Old houses demand a flooring solution that can navigate the challenges of uneven surfaces and structural idiosyncrasies. Well, the floating floor is a champion of maneuverability. The process of installing a floating floor, compared to its glued counterpart, is often more convenient. No need to grapple with meticulous gluing, and glue costs. Instead, you can lay down a pad that acts as both a vapor barrier and a noise cushion.

The convenience doesn't stop there. If a replacement is on the horizon, floating floors are easy to replace. No big efforts required; just a straightforward process of taking up and replacing the planks. Convenience is the name of the game.

Floating installations shine in scenarios where removing existing flooring poses a challenge. This method is also a standout choice for cement subfloors and spaces equipped with radiant heating. Meticulous checks for subfloor dryness and levelness are crucial, and a plastic moisture barrier fortifies the flooring against potential moisture-related issues.

But, and there's always a but, we can't sidestep the notorious squeaks associated with floating floors. It’s something that a noise cushion padding can minimize, but cannot fully eliminate.

Glued-Down Floors: Moisture-Resistant Stability

Tailored for flooring, the glue-down method creates a strong bond between the hardwood flooring and the subfloor using adhesives.

A quality urethane adhesive ensures a solid and quiet feel, creating a stable and noise-resistant installation. Environmental considerations for adhesives should be taken into account.

It is also a stalwart defender against moisture. Water and wood, as we know, aren't the best of friends, but a glued-down floor stands its ground better than its floating counterpart. Cracks and crevices that haunt a floating floor become less of a concern here. Spills are still a consideration, but a glued-down floor offers a bit more breathing room.

Glued-down floors are also used with concrete subfloor. Moisture from the ground continuously goes up through the porous concrete, into your home. A good glue also acts as a moisture barrier from below, not just above.

Practicality is the hallmark of glued-down floors. They exude stability and security, facing moisture well. While it might take a bit more effort to install, the payoff in durability is worth it. This method is a nod to those in it for the long haul, battling the elements and seeking a sturdier solution.

Nail Down Method: Solid and Cost-Effective

This is the classic, the OG. It stands out as the most prevalent installation technique, particularly for solid hardwood flooring. Suitable for wood subfloors, the nail down method involves nailing the planks directly to the subfloor using a pneumatic nail gun. It offers a solid and quiet installation without the need for adhesive, making it a cost-effective choice. A moisture barrier may be advisable in cases where moisture is a concern.

Here’s the recap of the 3 installation methods:

1. Nail Down: The Time-Tested Classic

Pros:
- Traditional and time-tested
- Well-suited for solid and engineered floors on wood subfloors
- Minimal risk during the sanding process

Cons:
- Not ideal for all subfloor materials
- Requires a wood subfloor

2. Glue Down: New Technology Elegance

Pros:
- Versatile, suitable for both solid and engineered flooring
- Adaptable to both wood and cement subfloors
- Strong and durable bond
- Moisture resistance from the concrete subfloor, and also from above

Cons:
- Relies on adhesives, which may have specific environmental considerations
- May require more effort to replace damaged flooring

3. Floating: A Modern Approach to Stability

Pros:
- Modern and versatile, especially over challenging subfloors
- Ideal for all kinds of flooring
- Stable without direct subfloor attachment
- Easy to remove

Cons:
- Requires meticulous subfloor preparation
- May generate squeaks, even with noise cushion padding

Choosing the Right Method for You

In the realm of hardwood flooring installation, the key lies in understanding the unique characteristics of each method and aligning them with your specific needs. Nail down, glue down, or float — it's not just about the tools and techniques but about creating a lasting foundation for the natural beauty and warmth that hardwood floors bring to your space.

Selecting the ideal installation method hinges on various factors such as subfloor type, moisture levels, and budget. Redeemed Hardwood Flooring & Decking is committed to being your flooring resource, offering guidance to ensure you find the perfect floor for your space.

Last Words

We know how a flooring & decking project is a mammoth undertaking for you… and can be very expensive. But if you’re not in a rush, I encourage you to shop around. Then check us out. We're a Factory Direct Store, so our prices are cheaper than any other places. We import the woods ourselves, passing along the savings to you. And we have pro installers with 15+ years of experience, at your service. Should you have any further questions, please email us at hello@redeemedflooring.com.