Floating Hardwood Flooring Installation
Floating engineered flooring installation comes in 2 varieties using either the older traditional tongue and groove system or the new Click Lock system. Both methods allow the floor to "float" over the subfloor, making them ideal for a variety of applications.
The floating method works with all engineered hardwood flooring species including reclaimed oak engineered, reclaimed European oak engineered, European oak, White Oak engineered, Douglas fir engineered, and walnut engineered.
Tongue and Groove Floating Installation
The tongue and groove system requires you to place a bead of glue into the groove of the previous board. Too much glue into the groove will cause some of the glue to squeeze up and out of the seam. If this happens, be sure to wipe the glue off immediately with the manufacturer's recommended removal technique. Sometimes just a damp paper towel or damp cloth rag will work, but follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
Click Lock Floating Floor Systems
The Click Lock design is a newer innovation that allows you to simply click the boards together. This system locks both of the edges together and they hold very securely, making for a quick, easy and secure flooring installation. Click locking the boards together alleviates the issues and mess involved with applying too much glue.
There are basically two types of Click Lock engineered flooring available:
- Tap-In Method: Place the board flat and then use a professional tapping block to tap the board into the adjoining board.
- Angle-Lock Method: Angle the board into the mating board and press down on the outside edge so it folds down until it snaps into place.
Benefits of a Floating Engineered Hardwood Floor
- Radiant Heat Compatible: Floating engineered floors are usually the best option when installing over radiant heat systems.
- Natural Movement: Expansion and contraction is a major problem for solid hardwood floors and even for some engineered floors that are nailed or glued down, especially if weather conditions go from one extreme to the other throughout the year. With a floating floor, the boards act like a single unit and expand and contract together because they are not attached to the subfloor.
- Basement Installation: Floating floors can be installed in basements where moisture concerns make glue-down or nail-down installations less desirable.
- Versatile Installation: Floating floors can be installed over other wood flooring, tile, concrete, and even vinyl.
- Easy Repair: Individual boards can be replaced more easily than with glued or nailed installations.
For expert floating floor installation in Los Angeles, contact Walter's Flooring at 213-792-5908. Our experienced installers can help you choose the right system for your project and ensure a beautiful, long-lasting result.
Compare Installation Methods
| Method | Best For | Subfloor Required |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Down | Solid hardwood over wood subfloor | Plywood or OSB |
| Glue Down | Engineered flooring over concrete | Concrete or plywood |
| Floating | Quick DIY, basements, radiant heat | Any flat surface |
| Radiant Heat | Heated floors | Concrete with heating |
Recommended Engineered Flooring for Floating Installation
|
Reclaimed Oak Engineered Classic antique character |
Reclaimed European Oak Eng. Old World elegance |
|
European Oak Flooring Premium new European oak |
Reclaimed Douglas Fir Eng. Rustic wide plank beauty |
Tools & Materials Needed
Tools
- Tapping block (for click lock)
- Pull bar
- Miter saw or table saw
- Tape measure
- Spacers (1/2 inch)
- Utility knife
Materials
- Engineered hardwood flooring (click lock or T&G)
- Underlayment or foam padding
- Wood glue (for tongue and groove system)
- Moisture barrier (if needed)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is floating hardwood flooring installation?
Floating installation means the engineered hardwood planks are connected to each other but not attached to the subfloor. The floor "floats" as a single unit over underlayment, allowing natural expansion and contraction.
What's the difference between tongue and groove and click lock?
Tongue and groove requires applying glue into the groove before connecting boards. Click lock is a newer system that simply snaps together without glue - either by tapping with a block or angling and pressing down. Click lock is faster and cleaner.
Can floating floors be installed over radiant heat?
Yes, floating engineered floors are usually the best option for radiant heat systems. The floating installation allows natural movement as the floor heats and cools.
Can floating floors be installed in basements?
Yes, floating floors are ideal for basement installations where moisture concerns make glue-down or nail-down installations less desirable. The underlayment provides a moisture barrier.
What can floating floors be installed over?
Floating floors are versatile and can be installed over other wood flooring, tile, concrete, vinyl, and most existing flat surfaces. Proper underlayment is essential.
Can solid hardwood be installed as a floating floor?
No, only engineered hardwood flooring should be used for floating installations. Engineered construction provides the dimensional stability needed.
Do you offer floating floor installation services in Los Angeles?
Yes, Walter's Flooring can connect you with experienced installers who specialize in floating floor installation. Contact us at (213) 792-5908 or visit True Local Pros.
Other Installation Methods
- Nail Down Installation - For solid hardwood over wood subfloors
- Glue Down Installation - For engineered flooring over concrete
- Radiant Heat Installation - Special considerations for heated floors
- Complete Installation Guide - Overview of all methods
Contact Us
Phone: (213) 792-5908
Email: info@legnohardwood.com
Address: 9216 S. Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90044
Showroom Hours:
Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday & Sunday: By Appointment
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