Hardwood Floors August/September 2019

AT THE SITE

recommended by the flooring manufacturer). The hardwood may slip and move at first, so be sure to secure one row entirely before moving on to other rows. The initial row will limit the movement of subsequent rows. Occasionally lift a piece of flooring to check the adhesive transfer. The percentage of transfer is dictated by the adhesive manufacturer for the product being used. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions after installing engineered flooring over concrete. For instance, you might be required to roll and cross the floor with a 100-to-150 lb. roller after installation to ensure proper adhesive transfer. Traffic also should be restricted for up to 24 hours after completing the installation to allow drying.

specific trowel requirements. Use a notched trowel to spread the adhesive. NOTE: Wood adhesives recommended today are much more environmentally friendly than in the past, but they cost more. Installation Expansion gaps should be left between the flooring and wall. The manufacturer should have recommendations for how wide the expansion gaps need to be. Installing engineered hardwood flooring over concrete too tight against a stationary object will not allow room for normal expansion and may cause a failure. Important: Only spread the adhesive over small areas ahead of you at any given time. You don’t want the adhesive drying before you can get to that area. Lay the flooring into the adhesive with the tongue side of the board facing the center of the room (or as otherwise

If you are still debating whether to install your engineered wood flooring using the glue-down method, consider these points:

PROS • Floor has a solid feel • Less chance of squeaking or clicking due to boards coming into contact with the subfloor with every step • Permanent installation • Enables use of flush-mount transition moldings

CONS • May require rigorous subfloor prep

• Labor costs are higher • Adhesives can add costs

Tony Morgan is a senior technician for Wagner Meters, where he serves on a team for product testing, development, and customer service and training for moisture measurement products. Along with 19 years of field experience for several electronics companies, Tony holds a BA in Management and has an AAS in Electronics Technology. He can be reached at 800.505.1283 or visit wagnermeters.com.

COMING SOON: NAIL-DOWN INSTALLATIONS Next, we’ll present the second article in our series on engineered flooring installation on concrete – best practices for nail-down installations. g

58 hardwood floors www.hardwoodfloorsmag.com