Wood flooring, particularly the Wood Flooring Plus, is a beautiful and durable option for your home. Installing wood floors can significantly enhance the aesthetics and value of your property. To ensure a successful installation, follow these step-by-step instructions on how to install Wood Flooring Plus in your home.
Materials Needed:
- Wood Flooring Plus planks
- Underlayment
- Saw (circular or miter)
- Measuring tape
- Spacers
- Hammer
- Nails or pneumatic flooring nailer
- Tapping block
- Finishing nails
- Adhesive/glue (optional, depending on installation method)
Step 1: Prepare the Subfloor
Start by ensuring the subfloor is clean, flat, and dry. Remove any existing flooring and debris, and repair any cracks or irregularities. Install a suitable underlayment, such as foam or cork, to provide sound insulation and moisture barrier. Allow the underlayment to acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours before installation.
Step 2: Measure and Plan
Measure the room’s length and width to determine the square footage needed for your Wood Flooring Plus. It’s recommended to purchase an additional 10% of flooring material to account for any mistakes or future repairs. Plan the installation direction, considering the room’s layout and natural light sources.
Step 3: Install the First Row
Start in a corner of the room, laying the first row of Wood Flooring Plus with the groove side facing the wall. Leave a 1/2-inch gap between the flooring and the wall to accommodate expansion. Use spacers to maintain this gap throughout the installation process. Stagger the planks, and cut the last piece of the row to fit, ensuring a minimum 6-inch length remaining. Use a tapping block and hammer to lock the planks together securely.
Step 4: Continue the Installation
Begin the second row by using the remaining cut-off piece from the first row, ensuring a staggered pattern. Remember to maintain the 1/2-inch gap and use spacers along the walls. Install subsequent rows by interlocking the tongue and groove of each plank until the entire floor is covered. Trim the last row to fit, leaving a 1/2-inch expansion gap.
Step 5: Secure the Flooring
Depending on your chosen installation method, you can either nail the flooring planks by hand using finishing nails or utilize a pneumatic flooring nailer. Use the appropriate tool to secure the planks every 6 to 8 inches along the edges and every 10 to 12 inches along the inner area. Ensure the final row is firmly in place, and use a pull bar to close any remaining gaps.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
After completing the installation, remove all the spacers and check the floor for any visible gaps or protruding nails. Fill any gaps with matching wood filler and countersink any raised nails. Clean the floor thoroughly, removing any dust or debris. You can further enhance the appearance and durability of your Wood Flooring Plus by applying a protective finish, such as polyurethane or epoxy coating, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
With these step-by-step instructions, you should have no problem installing Wood Flooring Plus in your home. Wood flooring adds warmth and charm to any space, making it a worthwhile investment. Enjoy your new beautiful and long-lasting wood floors!