Installing Solid Wood Floors in the Home

Solid wood flooring is an excellent choice for domestic settings.  This type of flooring is durable, long lasting and very attractive.  It is important that you prepare the subfloor properly and follow the correct installation guidelines to ensure you make the most of your solid wood flooring. 

Prepare the Subfloor

The subfloor will need to be prepared before you lay down any solid wood flooring.  Remove any existing skirting boards before you begin.

*        Concrete floors can be subject to varying moisture content.  This is why it is a good idea to lay down an appropriate damp proof membrane before installing solid wood flooring

*        If the floor is uneven then you will need to use self-levelling compounds to create a flatter surface for your wood flooring.

*        Always wait for at least 60 days after a new concrete floor has been laid before you cover with wood flooring.

*        Wooden subfloors can benefit from the installation of a plywood base before you lay over solid wood flooring.  This will create a smooth and even surface for you to start from.

*        Both concrete and wooden subfloors will need to be free from paint, grease, adhesives, dirt and debris before you start installing flooring.

Installing Solid Wood Flooring

For 'glued down' installation you will need to follow the instructions provided with the adhesive product.  This process will typically involve the following steps:

1.      Starting at one edge of the room trowel the adhesive and sealer product onto a section of prepared subfloor.

2.      Even this out as much as possible and then begin placing solid wood flooring directly onto the adhesive.  Press down firmly and ensure the two surfaces are adhered before you move on. 

3.      Wipe away any excess adhesive that may squeeze up through the joins.  Repeat this process until you have covered the floor surface.

4.      Don't forget to create a maximum 10mm expansion gap around the perimeter of the room (and also in doorways) when installing solid wood flooring. 

5.      You can cover this with fresh skirting boards and door profiles later on.

After you have finished walk across the entire floor carefully and ensure all the boards are firmly stuck down. Now leave the flooring to set for the recommended period (at least 12 hours) before you use the room again.