Gluing wood flooring involves applying adhesive directly to the subfloor before laying the planks. This method, often called the "glue-down" installation, creates a solid bond between the flooring and the surface beneath it.
Here's how you typically glue down wood flooring, based on the reference provided:
The Glue-Down Process
The core of gluing wood flooring to the subfloor involves working in manageable sections.
According to the reference: "Simply apply the adhesive to the subfloor and spread evenly across 1m² areas at a time. Now place the planks of flooring on top of the adhesive and push the together."
This indicates a step-by-step approach to ensure the adhesive remains workable while you install the flooring.
Key Steps for Gluing Down Wood Flooring
Follow these steps for installing your wood floor using the glue-down method:
- Prepare the Subfloor: Ensure the subfloor (concrete, plywood, etc.) is clean, dry, level, and free from dust or debris. Proper preparation is crucial for the adhesive to bond correctly.
- Plan Your Layout: Decide on your starting point, often the longest wall, and plan how the planks will run.
- Apply Adhesive in Sections: Apply the adhesive to the subfloor using a notched trowel specifically designed for wood flooring adhesive. Spread evenly across 1m² areas at a time. Working in small sections prevents the adhesive from skinning over or drying out before you lay the planks.
- Lay the Planks: Now place the planks of flooring on top of the adhesive. Begin laying the first row, maintaining a straight line.
- Push Planks Together: Push the together firmly, ensuring a tight fit between planks and good contact with the adhesive below. You may need to use tapping blocks or pull bars.
- Continue the Process: "Continue with this process until the room is complete." Apply adhesive to the next 1m² section and lay the corresponding planks, interlocking them with the previous row.
- Maintain an Expansion Gap: "Remember to leave an expansion gap around the perimeter of the room." Wood flooring naturally expands and contracts with changes in humidity and temperature. A gap, usually around 10-15mm, is necessary around all walls and fixed objects to allow for this movement. Use spacers to maintain this gap during installation.
Important Considerations
- Adhesive Type: Use an adhesive specifically formulated for wood flooring and compatible with your subfloor type and wood species.
- Trowel Size: The correct trowel notch size is essential for applying the right amount of adhesive. Refer to the adhesive manufacturer's instructions.
- Working Time: Pay attention to the adhesive's open time or working time – the period it remains tacky enough for the flooring to bond effectively. This reinforces the need to work in small sections.
- Weighting: Sometimes, after laying the planks, rolling the floor or applying weight can help ensure maximum contact with the adhesive.
By following these steps, you can successfully glue wood flooring to your subfloor, creating a durable and stable floor installation.
