Hardwood Installation Types
If you are considering installing your own floor, be sure you understand the different types of hardwood floor installation.
Hardwood Installation Types
If you are considering installing your own floor, be sure you understand the different types of hardwood floor installation.
Installation types
Hardwood floor installation is a project that can be done by seasoned professional contractors or by skilled “Do It Yourselfers” ambitious enough to attempt the job themselves. Choosing the right installation method is just as important as choosing the flooring itself. The method you use affects performance, durability, sound, and long-term maintenance. Before you get started, you need to know the subfloor you will be installing the new floor on, as it may dictate which hardwood floor installation method you can use. Common subfloor types include plywood, concrete, and existing flooring surfaces. Each requires specific installation techniques to ensure proper adhesion, stability, and longevity.
Nail/staple down installation
Hardwood floor installation using the nail down method is typically used for solid wood flooring of ¾” thick strip or plank flooring to a wooden subfloor. The flooring cleats are driven down through the tongue of the flooring and fasten securely in the subfloor beneath.
This method is considered the traditional approach and is commonly used in new construction or major renovations.
Best for:
- Solid hardwood flooring
- Homes with plywood or wood subfloors
- Long-term, permanent installations
Considerations:
- Requires specialized tools and experience
- Not suitable for concrete subfloors
- Typically best handled by professionals
Floating Installation
A floating floor is engineered hardwood that is installed by attaching each board to the next without any adherence to the subfloor. The boards are attached using a bead of glue on the tongue or by a click-together system. Floating floors are easier to install for a DIY project and can generally be installed over existing flooring such as tile or vinyl.
Because the floor is not fixed to the subfloor, it “floats” as a single unit. This allows the floor to expand and contract more evenly in response to changes in temperature and humidity. On a floating system, the entire floor moves as one unit, which can help reduce gaps between boards in environments with fluctuating conditions.
Best for:
- DIY installations
- Engineered hardwood flooring
- Basements or areas over concrete
- Installations over existing floors
Considerations:
- May produce slightly more sound underfoot
- Requires proper underlayment for stability and noise control
- Sanding capability depends on wear layer thickness
Glue Down Installation
Glue is primarily used to attach hardwood flooring to fully cured and dry concrete substrates or wood when nailing is just not an option. Adhesive is applied directly to the subfloor, and boards are set into place, creating a strong and stable bond. Glue is also used as a sound reduction barrier and can help soften the transfer of noise when hardwood is installed in applications such as apartment buildings and high rises. Hardwood that is installed using the nail down method can tend to have higher noise transfer between floors. Please refer to the flooring manufacturer for recommendations on installation. Bona is the first and only manufacturer to earn GREENGUARD Gold Certification on our full line of wood floor adhesive products: Bona R851®, Bona R850T®, Bona® R859 and Bona R880™! This stringent certification validates Bona's sustainability commitment by ensuring healthier air quality for contractors, homeowners and building tenants.
Best for:
- Concrete subfloors
- Engineered hardwood
- Condos, apartments, and multi-level buildings
Considerations:
- Requires careful adhesive application
- More labor-intensive and time-sensitive
- Professional installation is often recommended
Nail + Glue Down Installation
In some cases when installing plank flooring 4” and wider, nailing and gluing the boards are recommended. This hybrid method combines the strength of mechanical fastening with the stability and sound reduction of adhesive.
Best for:
- Wide plank hardwood flooring
- High-end installations
- Areas where additional stability is needed
Considerations:
- More complex installation process
- Higher cost due to materials and labor
- Typically requires professional expertise
Choosing the Right Installation Method
When selecting an installation method, consider:
- Your subfloor type (wood vs. concrete)
- The type of hardwood (solid vs. engineered)
- The location (above, on, or below grade)
- Your experience level (DIY vs. professional)
- Sound and comfort preferences
Matching the right installation method to your space ensures better performance and fewer issues over time.
In conclusion
With all the variations in hardwood floor installation, knowing the different methods will better prepare you making the decision of hiring a professional contractor or doing the installation yourself. A well-installed floor not only looks better but also performs better—reducing movement, noise, and long-term maintenance issues.
Find a Professional
If you are looking for someone to install your hardwood floor, contact a Bona Certified Craftsman to explore your options. A Bona Certified Craftsman is a professional contractor specially trained in the Bona Floor Care System and can provide you with a wealth of experience and expertise concerning hardwood floors.