Tongue-and-groove strips are the traditional choice for floating wood floors. The tongue on each strip is glued into the groove of the previous one, ensuring an incredibly strong hold. Read on to learn how to install glued floating wood floors using the tongue-and-groove method.
Here are a few tips on preparing the floor for installation:
Use a tape measure to calculate the number of rows necessary to cover the width of the room. This will help you establish the dimensions of the first and last strip.
To do so, divide the length (AB) of your room by the width (CD) of a single strip to get a rough figure, then round down (for example, if you get E=24.8 cm, round down to 24 cm).
To ensure that the strips are installed evenly across the room, we advise carrying out the following calculation: AB-(E×CD)] divided by 2. This will enable you to ascertain the width of the first row.
Next, roll out the insulating underlay across the floor, strip by strip. Once it is completely unrolled, tape the edges together without overlapping them. Learn about choosing the best underlay for your floating wood floor according to the type of room where you plan to install it.
First off, make sure that the room isn't too humid. If there’s a storm brewing, installation should definitely be postponed.
To install the first strip, cut the tongue off one end then position the strip at an angle with the groove against the wall. For the following strips, simply apply glue to the tongue then slot into the preceding strip. In case of too much glue, keep a rag or sponge on hand and immediately wipe away the excess.
When cutting the final strip in the row to size, make sure to take the expansion gap into account. This should be at least 8 mm depending on the length of the room.
Next, place expansion wedges between the wall and the ends of the rows.
For the following rows, all you need to do is repeat the same tongue-groove glueing process; ensuring that the side of each strip is also glued to the side of the preceding strip.
When you reach the final row, measure the remaining space (not forgetting about the expansion gap), cut the strips to size and glue in place.
Leave the wood to rest for 24 hours before removing the expansion wedges.
To help you install your floating wood floor, we've put together a handy guide to accompany our step-by-step video instructions.
For further information, download the tip sheet.
NOTE: Please note that all forms of masking tape should be checked for compatibility with lacquered wood flooring before use (consult the manufacturer if necessary).
Also, if the application time is too long, the adhesive may transfer to the lacquer.