Hardwood Floors December 2025/January 2026

AT THE SITE Glue/Nail Assist or Nail/Glue Assist? (Continued)

PHOTO COURTESY OF NWFA

WHY ASSISTED INSTALLATIONS MATTER Even when combining glue and nails, you cannot completely eliminate wood movement. Wood is a natural material that responds to its environment – temperature, humidity, and seasonal changes. While we often refer to wood floors as “living,” they don’t have a brain; they simply react to conditions. An assisted installation, however, minimizes movement and helps maintain stability. It’s not about defeating nature – it’s about managing the fight. Experienced professionals understand this reality, while newcomers often learn the hard way that nature always has the upper hand. FINAL THOUGHT Mastering these techniques doesn’t just make you a better installer – it makes you a smarter one. Try to be a little better today than you were yesterday. Don Jewell is the head of technical for Loba-Wakol LLC in Wadesboro, North Carolina. He can be reached at don.jewell@loba-wakol.com. 62 hardwood floors hardwoodfloorsmag.com

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Define your primary fastening system before starting the job. Follow NWFA guidelines for nailing schedules and/or manufacturer instructions for adhesive application. Consult adhesive manufacturers for technical recommendations. Understand that assisted methods

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reduce – but do not eliminate – movement. You can’t stop nature,

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but you can try to control the fight.

For additional information, check out the NWFA's Installation Guidelines at NWFA.ORG/TECHNICAL- GUIDELINES/.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LOBA-WAKOL LLC