Installing engineered oak flooring can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to transform a space’s look and feel. With its durability, beauty, and ease of installation, it’s no wonder this type of flooring is becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of installing engineered oak flooring and provide valuable tips to ensure a successful installation.
1. Prepare the Subfloor
Before you begin laying your engineered oak flooring, it’s essential to prepare the subfloor properly. The subfloor should be clean, dry, and level. Start by removing any existing floor coverings, such as carpet or vinyl tiles and make sure there are no nails or staples sticking out. Repair any cracks or uneven areas on the subfloor using a suitable filler. Sweep thoroughly to remove dust and debris. If necessary, use a moisture metre to check if the subfloor has excessive moisture. If it does, you may need to apply a waterproof sealant or install a moisture barrier. Carefully engineered oak flooring can completely enhance the appearance of a space.
2. Acclimate the Flooring
Engineered oak flooring needs time to acclimate to its new environment. Before installation, place the unopened boxes of flooring in the room where you plan to install them for at least 48 hours (but consult manufacturer guidelines for specifics). This allows the planks to adjust to the temperature and humidity levels of the space.
3. Layout and Plan
Once your subfloor is ready and your flooring has acclimated, start by laying out your planks according to your preferred pattern or design scheme. This gives you an idea of how they will look once installed and allows you to make any necessary adjustments. Consider starting from one side of the room or an architectural feature like a fireplace or doorway for visual appeal. It’s also important to measure the perimeter of your room carefully before starting so that you know how many full-width planks you will need in each row.
4. Install Underlayment
Underlayment helps reduce noise, provides insulation, and acts as a vapour barrier. Rolls of underlayment typically come with an adhesive strip along one edge, allowing for easy installation. Unroll the underlayment perpendicular to the direction in which you intend to lay your flooring. Trim the excess underlayment using a utility knife.
5. Install the First Row
Begin installing the first row of planks along one wall of the room. For most installations, it’s best to start with the tongue side facing outwards and fit the groove of each subsequent plank onto it. This creates a seamless and secure fit. Use spacers between the wall and the first row of planks to allow for expansion (typically ¼ inch). Make sure each plank is snugly fitted against its neighbour, but avoid using excessive force, as this can damage or bend your flooring.
6. Continue Installation
With the first row in place, continue installing subsequent rows by joining each new plank with both tongue-and-groove fitting and a gentle downward tap using a mallet on top at a 45-degree angle. This helps ensure each plank is securely connected. Remember to stagger your planks by varying their lengths for aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. Use a saw or mitre box to cut planks as needed, ensuring accurate measurements and clean edges.
7. Fit Around Obstacles
As you progress with installation, you may encounter obstacles such as vents or door frames that require special attention. To fit around these obstacles, carefully measure and mark where you need to make your cuts on the planks. Use a jigsaw or oscillating tool with an appropriate cutting blade to make precise cuts without damaging adjacent flooring sections or barriers—carefully fit these custom-cut pieces into place.
8. Finishing Touches
Once all your flooring is installed, it’s time for those finishing touches that truly complete the look. Install any transition strips or moulding to cover the gaps between flooring and other surfaces like doorways or adjoining rooms. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for a correct and secure installation. Give your newly installed-engineered oak flooring a thorough clean using a recommended wood floor cleaner. This will ensure any dirt or dust accumulated during installation is removed, and your floors shine bright.
In conclusion
Installing engineered oak flooring is an excellent choice for homeowners looking to enhance the look and feel of their living spaces. With its durability, beauty, and ease of installation, it’s no wonder why this type of flooring is gaining popularity. By following the step-by-step guide outlined above, you can successfully install engineered oak flooring in your home. Remember to properly prepare the subfloor, acclimate the flooring, plan the layout, install underlayment, and carefully fit each plank together.