How to Install Hardwood Floor Over Concrete

How to Install Hardwood Floor Over Concrete

One of the most common types of flooring in many homes today is hardwood floor. There are several reasons for this. A hardwood floor gives a house a warm feel and a very appealing look. Simply put, a hardwood floor is often much more attractive than carpeting. It is easier to keep clean than carpet is, and thanks to advanced materials and technology, the needs of the past with a hardwood floor - such as polishing - can be eliminated. Even if you have concrete floors, you can install hardwood floor and give your home long lasting beauty.

Once you have chosen your hardwood floor and are ready to install it, the first thing that you need to do is to keep the flooring in your home for at least one week. This will allow the flooring to become acclimated to the temperature in your home. This is important so that later on the wood will not swell or shrink.

Your next step is to clean the concrete. Once clean, you have to make sure the concrete is completely dry. Another thing to remember is that you cannot install hardwood floor over concrete that is less than sixty days old. As long as the concrete is at least two months old, you can do it. Always check for rough or high spots. Use a sander to even out the concrete and make it level. Once this is done, clean away the sand or dust, and then make sure the concrete is completely dry again.

Use a paint roller and apply a moisture barrier. This will do two things for you. One thing it will do is seal the concrete. The other thing is that it will protect your new hardwood floor. Once you have done this step. you will have to let it dry. Wait at least sixteen hours before you do anything else.

The best and easiest way to install hardwood floor is to start at the edge of the wall. Put the adhesive on the concrete directly, not on the wood. When the adhesive is down, place the wood over it and press down. Continue across the room and remember to press each of the boards against each other. If you find that you are having excess adhesive sticking to the surface of the wood floor, you can simply use some mineral spirits on a soft rag to remove it. Remember to leave a small gap - up to 1/4 inch - between the new hardwood floor and the wall. This will allow the wood to expand or shrink in response to temperatures.

Once the installation is complete, walk around gently and make sure the boards have all adhered to the glue. While the adhesive is drying, do not allow any traffic through the room for at least twelve hours. When the drying is finished, you should nail round molding, one quarter inch thick, to the wall and fill the joint. When done, clean it all with mineral spirits to remove any adhesive.

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