Laminate wood flooring is a versatile flooring type that gives the appearance of hardwood flooring. With natural looking designs in durable finish, laminate wood flooring can complement any home or office décor.
Designs and Patterns that Fit Every Interior
Laminate wood flooring is suitable for any room including family room, hallway, kitchen, and bathroom. Designed to withstand in heavy foot traffic areas, it is perfect for families with children and pets. Whatever your interior style – warm, light, energetic, playful, elegant or casual – a wide array of laminate wood flooring styles and colors are available. You can choose from smooth, textured, square edge, hand scraped, bevel edge, narrow plank and other interesting varieties.
Although laminate wood flooring patterns resemble original wood flooring, no solid wood is used in its construction. The realistic wood plank flooring patterns are created through advanced computerized technology. Laminate flooring can be installed on any flooring surface, concrete or wood.
Construction with Authentic Wood Appearance
Laminate wood flooring has a layered structure. The inner core layer is made using a high density, moisture-resistant fiber board. A high resolution image of natural hardwood flooring is glued and attached on the top of the fiber board. The backing layer is made using saturated paper which acts as a moisture barrier. The flooring is then finished with a clear coating to protect from stains and fading.
Laminate wood flooring is available in different installation formats – click-lock, glue down, and floating type. Floating type flooring does not fix directly to the sub floor. The most preferred type is click lock flooring that easily snaps together without glue or nails.
A Popular Flooring Option with Cost-saving Features
Laminate wood flooring enjoys high demand due to its affordability, simple installation, durability and easy maintenance. Most of the flooring manufacturers provide a long-term warranty for laminate floors. Dealers of laminate wood flooring also provide installation and maintenance services.
Worldwide Wholesale Floor Coverings – New Jersey Laminate Flooring – We offer easy to maintain and very affordable laminates that are a stylish way to create more look for less. Get premium quality NJ laminate wood flooring options from our store locations at Edison and Lawrenceville in New Jersey.
Oak Flooring-A Comparison of Solid Wood and Engineered Flooring
One of the first choices you will have to consider in buying an oak floor is whether you are going to choose a solid hardwood product or a laminate product. Laminate is also known as engineered flooring and uses real wood on top of another material, usually plywood. Hardwood or solid is, as the name implies, made of only one type of material. Laminate can also refer to other products made of plastic, but that will not be addressed in this article.
Engineered floors
Generally, engineered products do not offer quite the variety that you can find in solid products. Engineered floors can be installed in a variety of ways including free floating, glued down and stapled or nailed down.
Engineered floors tend to remain more stable and flat in conditions where heavy moisture is present. Changes in climatic conditions cause all floors to expand and contract, but engineered floors are more resistant to the influences of moist air. This kind of floor is the floor of choice for any basement or sub-grade installation and may also be a better choice for tropical locations that are subject to extreme humidity or in areas where there are extreme fluctuations in temperature.
Laminate floors are somewhat thinner than solid wood planks and may be a better choice for installations over an existing floor. Door clearances and transitions from one room to another with and without a wood floor are kept to a minimum.
Solid Hardwoods
While it may seem that engineered floors enjoy many advantages over solid oak floors, there are arguments for the hardwood plank camp as well.
Solid wood floors have a certain feel to them that other floors cannot match. There is something almost indefinable, but still very much present, in the sound and the feeling of walking on a hardwood floor that is missing in the alternative.
There is a broader selection in styles and in addition to oak, solid flooring offers a wider range of species, cuts and finishes.
Solid wood floors also have a high level of trustworthiness that adds value to a home. While laminates are excellent floors, the psychological appeal of a solid hardwood floor is hard to deny. Oak floors are associated with tradition, elegance and endurance-”The Mighty Oak” and other floors have similar connotations-the richness of walnut or the warm and rare cherry.
Finally, there is no doubt that the solid hardwood floor is an enduring addition to any home. One only has to visit homes hundreds of years old to witness firsthand the sturdy and ever-lasting quality of a solid plank floor.
There are so many happy decisions to make when choosing your oak floor! Resources and advice are ready for you in a complete wood flooring guide. Come visit us today!
Having reclaimed wood flooring adds something special to your home, bringing authenticity to an older home renovation, or instant ambience with a rich patina for new construction. There are also a number of advantages to having a wood floor, beyond the conservation aspects of using reclaimed boards when laying the floor. For those who are seeking authentic reclaimed wood flooring, there are some really great products on the market today.
About reclaimed wood flooring
Reclaimed floors are simply floors made with repurposed wood. When an older home is being restored or refurbished, wood floors that are in keeping with the historicity of the structure are generally seen as more desirable than a modern floor which may take away from the character of the home. If you have an older home, you may also want to do any reno-work to the home in such a way that your work is in keeping with the character and period of the home. In this instance, the use of reclaimed wood is a good option to achieve an authentic finish.
The benefits of a wood floor
Wood floors are a good option if you require something which is durable and which adds to the appeal of your home. A wood floor can be easier to keep clean than carpets, as it is finished with a durable coating which protects the wood from stains and spills that would typically ruin carpet flooring. When choosing wood there are different types of wood, with hardwood being the most beautiful and wear-resistant. The downside of this is that it is more expensive, while pine flooring although slightly less hard is often less expensive. Ultimately, when choosing a type of reclaimed wood for your home, the type of wood already in your home may influence what type of wood you choose. The one surprising trend is the emergence of engineered reclaimed flooring.This involves a process where a thick layer of actual reclaimed wood flooring is bonded to multi-ply wood sheet.This greatly reduces the cost of the reclaimed wood flooring, and also results in a greater yield of the antique flooring.
Where to find materials for reclaimed flooring
There are a number of sources for reclaimed floor materials. If you are going to arrange to have the floors laid, but find the materials yourself, then you may want to look for materials being sold from schools, churches and other larger, old buildings that are undergoing refurbishment. The advantage of finding materials from larger buildings is that there may be more longer lengths of wood which can be cut to fit. However, it may be nearly impossible to find a company willing to mill the flooring for you as all reclaimed wood has to be hand inspected to remove metal from it.the old nails etc will cause major damage to the milling equipment.Alternatively, you may find it simpler to speak with a company that specializes in reclaimed wood flooring. You may also find that if you discuss the option of using recycled materials that are in keeping with your home, the company laying the floor may also be able to source the materials for your home improvement project.
With a bit of planning, it is possible to find the materials you need to ensure you have an attractive and authentic wooden floor. The sourcing of materials to achieve the look you desire is often much simpler than you may imagine. Finding a professional who is familiar with laying reclaimed wood flooring may also help you when it comes to acquiring the materials to carry out home renovations and improvements.
Solid wood is exactly as it sounds, one piece of wood from top to bottom.
What is the difference between Laminate and Real Wood Floors?
Real Wood floors will age and mature with your property, this means that they will mark and dent more easily than a laminate would but this is part of the character of real wood floors and should not be viewed as a fault of the product. The shade of the wood surface will change with exposure to sunlight. Dependant on the species, it will either lighten or darken with age. The shade variation will only go on to a certain level and then cease. Any unexposed surface areas will eventually catch up with the colour differences once exposed.
Depending on the type of Real Wood floor (solid v’s engineered) it can sanded and re lacquered a number of times to prolong the life of the floor.
What is the difference between Solid Wood Flooring and Engineered Wood Flooring?
Each type of flooring has its specific use and choosing one over the other is dictated by your lifestyle and needs. Solid wood should be in a moisture-controlled environment. Solid wood (strip or plank effect) should be nailed down only and requires a wood sub floor. Solid wood can be glued to a variety of sub floor materials.
Engineered wood flooring consists of a multi-plied, cross-stacked backing with a real wood veneer (top layer of a selected species). Engineered wood flooring can be used on grade, above and below grade.
Engineered wood flooring is more dimensionally stable so it can be installed in areas where solid wood is not compatible due to moisture. Engineered wood (strip or plank effect) can be glued down over various sub floor. Some engineered woods (strip and plank ) can be nailed down which require a wood sub floor. Engineered woods can also be layed as a floating floor where the tongue and groove are glued together, but the floor is not anchored to the sub floor.
What is a “Floating Floor”?
Floating flooring is a flooring system laid down over a layer of underlay. So while the individual planks are glued together, the individual planks are not nailed or glued into the permanent floor. Instead, the planks form a system that “floats” over the layer of underlay. The underlay can be laid down over existing floors.
What is the required distance between the walls and the flooring boards?
When gluing a Real Wood to the subfloor an expansion gap of 15mm towards the walls is sufficient. With floating-floor installations for every metre of installation width the flooring requires a distance to the wall of at least 5mm, lengthwise an expansion gap of 15mm is sufficient.
Can I install the flooring using one pack after the other?
No, for a natural, harmonious looking installation is recommended to work with approximately 5 open packs of flooring and sort/choose the boards individually by colour.
How much wastage do I allow for?
Despite our strict sorting criteria and thorough quality control there may be certain material-specific peculiarities that customers come across during the on-site selection and installation process which may need to be cut out. Generally, we recommend adding 5% to the room’s sqm-total for cutting scrap.
Which kind of Real Wood flooring is right for me?
The range of choices is huge. According to personal taste and character of the room you can choose between different wood types, board sizes, surface finishes (lacquer-finish or oil-impregnation), surface structures (Antique, Distressed, Brushed), impressions (Block or Wideplank) and styles.
Does sunlight have any effects on the flooring?
Yes, any kind of wood will change its colour over time. During this process light-coloured wood types are not necessarily going to get lighter, dark wood types however will get darker. Every wood type has a characteristic aging process of its own and will react in its individual way.
What is the maximum load a Real Wood flooring can bear on a single point?
With very large loads (e.g. pianos, aquariums, storage heaters and the like) we always recommend gluing down as the installation method of choice.
Can Engineered Real Wood flooring that has been installed as a floating floor be sanded and resurfaced?
Yes, but be aware that every sanding process will take off about 1mm of the flooring’s wear-layer. Try not to use very heavy sanding machinery as the big weight of these machines may lead to the creation of “sanding waves”
How do I care for my oil-impregnated Real Wood floors?
Use Wood-Floor Soap for regular maintenance cleaning. Use a vacuum cleaner for lacquer-finished floors and damp-wipe only if needed.
Should your Floating Real Wood Flooring be installed under kitchen appliances?
In the kitchen, you should install the flooring under kitchen appliances, but be very careful when you slide the appliances over the floor. We recommend covering the flooring with something such as a spare rug to protect the flooring when you’re moving the appliances.
Are there methods that make it possible for ALL stains to be removed from Real Wood Floors or is it sometimes impossible for some stains to be removed?
Most stains don’t penetrate more than the sanding will remove. However, if you have a severe water stain, you may not be able to remove it.
How much of an irregularity (drop or rise) can there be in an existing sub floor before installing your Real Wood Flooring?
You can have a drop or rise up to 4mm over 2 linear metres.
Do Real Wood Floors increase home value?
Absolutely. Real Woods floors are recognised as one of the highest quality floors available and would increase the value of your home.
I am installing a Radiant Heat Floor System involving poly water tubing set in gypsum concrete that would be my sub-floor. Can your products be used with this type of floor heating system?
This installation is okay as long as the tubes don’t touch the wood. You also would have to use a laminated underlay vapour barrier between the concrete and the floor.
Can your Real Wood Flooring be installed over Linoleum and be used on stairs?
Real Wood flooring can be installed on the stairs, however it can be slippery.
You can install our floating Real Wood flooring over linoleum if the linoleum remains sound and tightly glued to the original sub floor.
Is there a type of Real Wood Flooring (e.g. Maple v’s Oak) that is more durable or longer lasting than another?
There isn’t much difference between Real Wood flooring wood types. The only negative on oak is it’s a rather porous wood, but it is a very hard durable wood, as are maple and beech. White oak is slightly harder than red oak. Your choice will really come down to aesthetics.
My concrete floor has a few low spots in it and I was wondering what to use to solve this problem?
Most building materials suppliers have a concrete levelling product. We suggest levelling any areas that are more than 3/16″ in variation. Make sure you use the underlay with a DPM before installing over concrete.
Do you have to install your Real Wood Flooring under existing cabinets?
Ideally, the Real Wood flooring would go under the cabinets. You can, however, cut around the cabinets if removing the cabinets would cause undue complications. Keep in mind, though, that if you were ever to change the cabinets, you could have a problem if the new cabinets weren’t the same size as the old cabinets.
Is it possible to install a Real Wood as a floating floor over concrete?
Real Wood floor is designed exactly for this kind of application. It requires an underlay with a DPM over the concrete floor. The floating floor system can go directly over that.
If there were a crack in the concrete, would it cause problems with a Floating Floor installation?
We recommend that any cracks in concrete be filled with concrete filler and sealed prior to installation. If it’s just a hairline crack you can simply cover the crack with duct tape. Keep in mind that underlay with a DPM must be installed prior to laying down the floor.
Important note prior to installation: Relative Humidity should be maintained a 40-55% prior to installation and throughout the life span of the floor.
15mm expansion gap must be maintained around the perimeter of the floor.
Real Wood Flooring FAQs brought to you by the flooring experts at Wood Flooring 2U
If you would like any further information on solid wood flooring, engineered wood flooring, laminate wood flooring or advice on how to install a wooden floor, please don’t hesitate to get in touch, our knowledgeable team would be more than happy to help.
The difference between solid wood flooring and engineered wood flooring
On first inspection there isn’t any great aesthetic difference between solid wood and engineered wood flooring. However before you rush out and opt for the cheapest wood floor there are a few pros and cons to weigh up for both engineered and solid wood floors.
Construction
Solid wood flooring is milled from the tree to give a solid wood plank which has an uninterrupted wood grain and is solely constructed of one solid section of wood. They are mostly constructed with a tongue and groove format.
Engineered wood floors consist of a top layer of natural hardwood which is stuck to a cross layered section of natural soft or hard wood known as ply wood. The cross layering of the ply enables the plank to be more stable due to the glue used so that when the wood expands width ways the different angles reduce the amount of expansion.
Durability
Solid wood flooring is more durable than engineered as it gains its strength from being one solid piece of wood and can be re-sanded and refinished with different waxes, stains or oils more times then engineered. Though the life of any floor does depend on how well it is looked after with recommended care products.
Engineered wood flooring is still very durable and can only be re-sanded five times as the top hardwood layer cannot withstand more.
Really good maintenance is key to durability as when the right cleaning products are used a wood floor can last a very long time.
Stability
Solid wood floor isn’t considered as stable as engineered due to its seasonal movements, meaning that they are susceptible to expansion and contraction with humidity changes in the home. A small perimeter gap accommodates this movement. Solid wood floor is not generally recommended if underfloor heating is already installed as the heat can cup and warp the boards. It is also not advisable to lay solid wood flooring on concrete, unless a full moisture test has been carried out and it is sealed, as the levels of moisture can also affect the boards.
Engineered wood flooring is more stable and more multi functional then solid wood as it is suitable for laying on underfloor heating, concrete and is compatible with most types of underlay making it a good option for those living in second floor and basement flats.
Installation
Solid wood floor can be stuck down or secret nailed and it is not recommended that they are floated over underlay as the joints are glued down and wouldn’t allow the boards to move with seasonal humidity and moisture.
Engineered wood flooring can be stuck down, nailed and floated. It is versatile but does still require a perimeter gap just to be on the safe side with slight board movements.
Jordan Stavrinou is the Managing Director of Jordan Andrews Ltd; London’s leading hardwood flooring company. With 20 years in the hardwood and construction industry and a team of industry professionals, Jordan is considered an expert in his field. Visit www.jordanandrews.com for all your hard wood flooring needs.
The Solid Oak Wood Flooring – Attractive, Striking and Durable
Hardwood flooring is anything that is not new to the people as this type of flooring has been in use for centuries. Wood floors are available in wide ranges and all of them have their own beauty and characteristics. Each type is unique in its qualities and features and solid oak wood flooring is also one of the types of hardwood floors. Oak wood floors are considered as popular flooring options because when it comes to buy the flooring that is eye-catching as well as durable then many people go for the solid oak wood flooring. This flooring can surely make just the excellent choice as it is quite hard plus it also works well in the high traffic areas. However, let us tell you some important things that you need to know before you buy the oak wood floor.
Why to consider an engineered hardwood floor?
One may still have the striking hardwood warmth and beauty with the engineered flooring. The process of manufacturing that type of floor is that the manufacturers bond a number of layers of wood under high pressure.
The engineered flooring would offer you the warmth; appeal and charm of hardwood as it consists of several plies of wood bonded in a sequence to get the strong piece of floor.
There are lots of benefits that you can enjoy after installing the engineered oak flooring in your home. So let us discuss a few of them.
One of the main advantages for a man who buys the oak wood flooring is that it offers the consumers an affordable price and this makes it an ideal option for a person who is concerned about the price issue.
Straightforward installation is another merit of the oak wood flooring. You can find the planks in a number of sizes, which are interlocking and are very helpful in installing the floor.
When you prefer the high quality oak wood flooring that is of high quality then you may avail the benefit of solid and appealing look.
Another feature of the oak wood floor is that it offers stability and also shows resistance in different temperatures and humidity.
Besides lots of benefits the engineered solid oak wood flooring also has a few drawbacks as well. It can be easily spoiled by scratches that can harm its finishing, as such floorboards are plywood they do not have the real stability coupled with the hardiness of oak wood flooring.
A solid wood floor can add warm tones and a stunning finish to any room. Constructed with pieces of solid wood they have tongue and groove sides so they can be easily connected together. Each piece has a different grain which combines to form a unique look whenever it is used. There is a huge variety of solid wood floors available with many types of wood species, colours and widths available at hardwood flooring suppliers.
The most popular option is oak wood flooring. Europe and America are both the main consumer and producer of this type of hardwood flooring. Oak is available in various types including red, white and European oak, each with their own hardness, grain and colour characteristics.
A cherry wood floor is another popular choice due to its striking grain markings and solid composition. Like other wood floors it is highly resistant to damage. Over time cherry wood flooring darkens from a pale pink colour to warm dark red tone
Exotic hardwoods can give a room a unique look are now readily available at major hardwood flooring suppliers. They can be found for sale alongside other classic real wood flooring such as maple, oak and ash. Real wood flooring can be purchased in pre-finished or unfinished styles. When laying unfinished wood flooring the product can be recoated many times to increase its life and make it last considerably longer than other flooring options.
When laying solid wood floors, begin with a flat, dry and solid sub floor such as concrete, wood or cork. Carpet is not suitable as a sub base and must be removed. Any deviations in level should be rectified with suitable floor filler. A plastic barrier to stop moisture is recommended for floors that are being installed on concrete or in damp areas. Harwood flooring should also be allowed time to acclimatise before it is set down by leaving it the room for several days. For a bathroom wood floor contact you local flooring supplier for suitable product support.
If you are using a wood floor sub base the solid wood floor should be installed at right angles to the original floorboards to aid strength and stability. An expansion area around the perimeter of the room is also recommended to allow for contractions and expansions throughout the winter and summer months. This expansion gap can be covered with skirting boards or a cover strip.
Solid wood floors are tough and hard wearing and by taking care of them their life can be prolonged. Keep gravel, dirt and grit at bay by using a doormat outside and inside the front door. Regular sweeping and vacuuming will take care of any dirt that does settle on the floor and will reduce scratches and everyday wear and tear. Avoid wearing stiletto heels on solid wood floors and if possible only wear indoor shoes or slippers on its surface.
Nothing comes close to the finish that can be achieved with a solid wood floor. By installing solid wood flooring the value of a home often increases and it can give a home the edge over similar property on the market. Solid wood floors are stain resistant and do not trap dust so are especially good for allergy sufferers. There is a wide range of tones, styles and prices on the market so whether you are looking for a cheap wood floor or the ultimate in hardwood flooring, you are sure to find the right match for your room.
Rami Nseir is a consultant for UK Carpets Direct who are specialist UK suppliers of hardwood flooring & laminate floors.
It is important to start any flooring installation by firstly planning out the room and deciding where to start. Many rooms offer what at first appear to be very complicated situations to overcome. Don’t worry too much about these, all situations have a solution which are covered in this section, alternatively further information can be found in the handy hints and tips section.
Planning:-
When first presented with a room or area which is to be fitted with Solid wood flooring some key factors will help you to decide where to start your installation. Door ways, shape of room and locations of main window are all factors to take into consideration as well as the subfloor (existing floor which is to be covered with Solid wood floor) here are some rules and suggestions:-
Rules –
When laying Solid wood flooring on top of existing floor boards always lay the planks at 90 degrees to the floor boards
It is important not to end up with a piece of flooring at the end of a row which is less than 5cm in length or to have the last row less than 5cm in width. To avoid this measure the room’s width and length and divide the results by the dimensions of the flooring being installed. It may then be necessary to start the first row with a half plank or even to cut the width down to accommodate the area
An expansion joint will need to be inserted into any floor area which is larger than 8m in length or in width, in effect creating two floor areas
Acclimatise the boards in the room they are to be laid in for a minimum of 48 hours. The room should have a relative humidity of between 45% – 65% and a temperature of between 18C – 20C
Suggestions –
It is generally accepted that the best visual effect when installing Solid wood flooring is to lay the boards in the direction of the light source; so towards the main window (not forgetting rule 1 above)
It is also suggested that the floor should run along the longest wall of the room giving the best overall effect. (again take note of rule 1 above)
When laying a floor across a door way it is best practise to start at this point and work back into the room
Installation guide:-
Once your planning stage is complete it is time to prepare the room starting with the subfloor. It is vital that the subfloor is in optimal condition to allow the new floor to perform as expected and help to maintain its longevity
Subfloor preparation –
The main factors to consider are the smoothness, dryness and overall levelness of the floor. If the subfloor is uneven then the new floor will not last long as the pressure on the joints will cause the boards to separate
For concrete floors make sure that they are dry (it takes approx. 1 day per 1mm of wet concrete to be considered dry enough for a Solid wood floor to be installed). The relative humidity of the floor is also vital it should not exceed 85%
For wooden subfloors, ensure there is no movement in the floor. Any loose floor boards should be nailed or screwed securely in place. WBP (water and boil proof) ply can be used over existing floorboards to provide a suitable subfloor surface
All floors must be smooth and level
Finally all debris must be cleaned and the surface of the subfloor must be free from dust and other contaminants
Installation Techniques:-
There are three main ways to install a Solid Wood floor,
Secret nailing
Gluing directly to the subfloor
Installing the Solid wood onto a self adhesive underlay
All of these methods are perfectly acceptable methods of installation for a domestic application, each method has its benefits and draw backs. It is often the subfloor which will help to determine which installation is best suitable.
Installing the floor planks – Secret nailing –
Secret nailing a wooden floor is a method usually chosen when the existing subfloor is wood or when installing directly to joists. Solid wood flooring should have a minimum thickness of 21mm if it is to be fitted directly to joists.
It is possible to use the secret nail technique when the subfloor is concrete or screed. A damp proof membrane (DPM) needs to be placed over the concrete followed by an 18 – 24mm WBP plywood sheet.
Start the first row by loose laying the boards parallel to the wall allowing a 15mm expansion gap. Begin by resting the fitting wedges up against the wall to give you a 15mm gap. This is vital as the Solid boards will expand and contract after installation and if this gap is not present the floor will lift and buckle in the room. The wedges are removed after installation is complete and the gap is covered with either skirting or beading
At the end of the first row you will undoubtedly need to cut a board to length. A good way to measure the length of the board required is to rotate the loose board by 180 degree (facing upwards) so that the tongue is facing the tongue of the previous row. Rest the board next to the first row then mark and cut the boards to size.
(NB. When cutting Solid flooring ensure that a new blade is used)
Once you are happy with the alignment, ‘face nail’ the boards into the subfloor at intervals of 250-300mm or onto every joist. Face nailing is nailing through the top of the planks into the subfloor, counter sink the nails and fill in the dimples with wood filler.
Depending on the tools used and the width of the flooring installed, it may be necessary to face nail two or three rows before secret nailing can begin.
Continue laying rows of planks down ensuring that you keep the 15mm expansion gap around the perimeter of the room. Stagger the boards so that the end joint of each row is further than 150mm apart (brick bond)
Keeping the nails at a distance of 250 – 300mm, secret nail the planks into the subfloor. Secret nailing is a method where planks are secured through the tongue of the boards at a 45 degree angle and counter sunk to allow the groove of the next board to fit tightly. Mechanical nail guns are the best way to achieve professional results and make installation a lot easier.
The final row can be measured and marked to size using the following technique; firstly place the board to be marked directly on top of the last row laid. Place another plank on top of the loose plank but this time have the top plank pushed up against 15mm wedges against the wall to give you the correct measurement allowing for expansion. (be careful not to move the board to be marked) now draw a line along the edge of the top plank marking the board underneath.
The last few rows will also have to be face nailed as there will not be enough room for secret nailing.
Installing the floor planks – Direct gluing –
Direct gluing is a suitable method of installation when fixing on top of a concrete or screed subfloor. One benefit is that the overall height of the new floor is kep to a minimum as there is no need to install an 18mm WBP plywood base. It is also suitable over existing wood floors which are suitably flat and firm.
The subfloor must be flat, firm and level; if necessary a levelling compound may be used. It is important to remember that all subfloors must be dry.
A liquid damp proof membrane must be laid first and allowed to dry.
Using a suitable wood flooring adhesive apply an even coat to the subfloor. A notched trowel held at between 450 and 900 is the best method for this.
Start the first row by laying the boards parallel to the wall allowing a 15mm expansion gap. Begin by resting the fitting wedges up against the wall to give you a 15mm gap. This is vital as the Solid boards will expand and contract after installation and if this gap is not present the floor will lift and buckle in the room. The wedges are removed after installation is complete and the gap is covered with either skirting or beading
At the end of the first row you will undoubtedly need to cut a board to length. A good way to measure the length of the board required is to rotate the loose board by 180 degree (facing upwards) so that the tongue is facing the tongue of the previous row. Rest the board next to the first row then mark and cut the boards to size.
(NB. When cutting Solid flooring ensure that a new blade is used)
After two rows have been successfully installed weigh them down while the glue sets. Any glue which has seeped through to the surface should be removed immediately.
Continue laying rows of planks down ensuring that you keep the 15mm expansion gap around the perimeter of the room. Stagger the boards so that the end joint of each row is further than 150mm apart (brick bond)
Tension straps may be used to hold rows tightly together whilst the glue sets.
The final row can be measured and marked to size using the following technique; firstly place the board to be marked directly on top of the last row laid. Place another plank on top of the loose plank but this time have the top plank pushed up against 15mm wedges against the wall to give you the correct measurement allowing for expansion. (be careful not to move the board to be marked) now draw a line along the edge of the top plank marking the board underneath.
Installing the floor planks – Self adhesive underlay –
Solid flooring can also be laid as a floating floor using a self adhesive underlay. The boards are adhered directly to the underlay which holds the floor together. This method can be used for all subfloor types (following the rules set out above that subfloors be flat, firm and dry) the benefits of the self adhesive underlay is that the room can be used immediately with no drying time required for glue to set.
Lay the underlay at 90 degrees to the direction of the boards ensuring that there are no gaps between sheets but equally important is that the underlay does not overlap. When using the underlay over concrete, first lay a DPM with the edges overlapped by 20cm.
Peel back the foil from the underlay by the width of 2 ½ planks and fold over.
Using the supplied spare foil, lay this over the exposed adhesive surface of the underlay with enough surplus foil facing the wall to fold back over the top of the underlay
Place the fitting wedges up against the wall to give you a 15mm gap. This is vital as the Solid boards will expand and contract after installation and if this gap is not present the floor will lift and buckle in the room. The wedges are removed after installation is complete and the gap is covered with either skirting or beading
Position the first row along the wall and wedges allowing for the expansion gap and ensure that this is perfectly straight. (if the first row is not perfectly straight the entire floor will be ruined) At the end of the first row you will undoubtedly need to cut a board to length. A good way to measure the length of the board required is to rotate the loose board by 180 degree (facing upwards) so that the tongue is facing the tongue of the previous row. Rest the board next to the first row then mark and cut the boards to size
(NB. When cutting Solid flooring ensure that a new blade is used)
Now lay a second row, this will help to stabilise the two rows whilst the foil is removed as well as help to provide a straight line
Once you are satisfied the rows are straight and tightly fitted, peel back the loose foil sheet which will expose the adhesive underlay to the solid wood flooring thus holding the boars in place.
The loose foil may now be discarded. The remaining attached foil will be your work area where new rows will be rested on until you are happy that they are tightly fitted.
Continue to fit the rows down and peel away the foil to fix the boards into place.
The final row can be measured and marked to size using the following technique; firstly place the board to be marked directly on top of the last row laid. Place another plank on top of the loose plank but this time have the top plank pushed up against 15mm wedges against the wall to give you the correct measurement allowing for expansion. (be careful not to move the board to be marked) now draw a line along the edge of the top plank marking the board underneath.
Obstacles –
There are various obstacles you will come across when installing any flooring. The trick is to identify these at the beginning and plan when to tackle them. You do not want to end up at an obstacle where you may need to remove some flooring you have already installed to enable you to deal with the situation.
Door frames are inevitable as almost all rooms will have these. It is necessary to remove a section of architrave and door jam to allow the Solid to be fitted under them, thus hiding the expansion gap away from sight. To do this you will need to place a piece of underlay and an upturned board against the door frame. Using a long saw pressed against the Solid floor begin to cut into the door frame. Make your cut until you reach the wall behind the door frame. Do not worry about cutting into the skirting as the beading will cover this. Remove as much of the door frame as possible so as to allow the right expansion room for the Engineered.
Measure and mark the Solid to fit and then install. When faced with a room where there are doors on both sides of a room and the Solid is installed across the door way it may be necessary to use glue to fit a board at one of these doors. As it is impossible to install the board at 30 degrees and still slide it under the architrave you will need to remove some of the locking joint on the previous row.
Remove the lip along the tongue of the long edge using a sharp chisel. Apply glue to this edge. Slide the board to be fitted under the door architrave and then pull it back into place along the previous row.
Radiator pipe covers can either protrude through the floor or from the wall. If they are floor mounted then the Solid will need to be cut around the pipes with an expansion gap. Measure and mark the position of the pipes on the Solid board and cut the holes out using a 32mm spade drill bit. This should allow for the 15mm pipe and an expansion gap. Then remove the excess Solid to allow the board to be placed against the pipes. The area of Solid removed should represent a keyhole shape. Keep the off cuts of the Solid as these can be glued back into place once the plank is installed.
Real Wood Flooring FAQs brought to you by the flooring experts at Wood Flooring 2U
If you would like any further information on solid wood flooring, engineered wood flooring, laminate wood flooring or advice on how to install a wooden floor, please don’t hesitate to get in touch, our knowledgeable team would be more than happy to help.
This short video shows how to install solid wood flooring onto a concrete base using Rewmar MS Polymer flexible adhesive. This adhesive is so easy to use and contains no solvents. Perfect for sticking down both solid hardwood flooring and engineered hardwood flooring. For more information please vist the website www.rewmar.co.uk This product can be bought online from: www.wood2u.co.uk Video Rating: 3 / 5
The engineered wood is very much in demand these days for the new houses that are being built. This is mainly used for the floor because hardwood flooring is not easy to be done on your own. You have to get a floor installer. Comparatively, the engineered wood flooring is an alternative that not only enhances the look of your house but is also hassle free.
Engineered wood is a mixture of plywood and finish wood and so you have actually got yourself real wood for the floor, no matter what people may say. The engineered hardwood floors are moisture proof and are also easy to maintain. Even though hard wood is sturdy, the ply wood used across the finish wood in case of engineered hardwood flooring gives support and strength.
There are various advantages of the engineered hardwood floors. In case of solid wood floors once it is laid, it needs to be sealed and you must give it some time to dry before it is ready to be used. The engineered hardwood floors are instantly ready to be used once it is done, since these are sold after sand cleaning and sealing. Another benefit of these floors is that they can be later sanded in case scratches develop. Laminated floors do not have this advantage.
Compared to the other wood floors the engineered hard wood flooring is the best for kitchens, bathrooms and to a certain extent in basements too. The installation of engineered floors can be done in two ways. You nail them or glue them in place. There are floating engineered floors too.
Though more expensive than the laminated floors the engineered wood floors are easier to maintain as they can be cleaned to remove the various marks that form on the floor when used constantly. The unique feature of engineered floors is that they are noiseless while tiled or stone floors tend to create noise. During winter the feel of the floor under our feet is warm unlike the other floors. You can rest assured that your floor will not develop dents or get warped when it comes in contact with moisture.
Engineered wood floors in Utah, Salt Lake City, is prompt and is done by experts. There are very many specialists in engineered hardwood flooring. With their help you can also customize the floor according to your choice.
Glen Mark is writing various topics on dust free hardwood flooring services at http://woodyshardwoodflooring.com/. The engineered wood flooring is done by providing high quality materials.
Shopping for childrens wood beds shouldn’t be taken lightly, a personal touch should be considered when making your final decision. A bed is the most personal furniture in the house, but more special in your child’s bedroom. Childrens wood beds can last much longer than metal beds, and are very easy to maintain, wood furnishings leave a room with a comfortable and calming homey feeling. In addition, children wood beds are fashionable, and sturdy, and inviting to look at.
There is no shortage of variety in childrens wood beds to choose from, some people may ask, why buy a childrens wooden furniture? When comparing wood beds to metal beds, wooden beds are made from natural material, also wooden beds have a calming and warm feeling, unlike the cold feel that emanates from beds constructed of metal.
There are some people who are concerned about buying wooden beds for the reason they feel furniture made from wood production are destroying the natural environment. To answer this concern, the fact is that most beds for children and wooden furniture are constructed with pine wood. Pine is a common wood readily harvested from local sustained forests, and have no ill effect on the environment.
Childrens wood beds give any bedroom a sense of class, especially if the wood is varnished. It doesn’t matter if the childrens wood bed is a twin bed, a single bed or a wooden bunk bed, your children will love it. Bunk beds are hugely popular with kids, children love to play on and around bunk beds, and it becomes a joy to sleep in them. Additionally space can be saved with a childrens wood bunk beds as compared to having two single or twin beds in a room, and also give more room for your children to play.
Childrens are unique furniture, and are normally strong and nice to look at. As the years pass, beds for children are long lasting and may out live metal beds that can rust if not maintained. Not many things look as nice as a varnished piece of wooden furniture, and beds for children can give an alluring feel to a room.
Manufacturers of childrens beds have various designs, they offer accessories like built in drawers into bed frame or into the headboard. Many wood beds designs are creative, as an example is the wooden loft bed, space under the bed can be utilized as a storage space, making more space than a bunk bed.
