Engineered Timber Flooring Installation Guide
Engineered timber flooring has gained popularity in recent years among Australian homeowners. As they are available in a range of grades, finishes, and styles, engineered timber flooring conveniently meets the aesthetic needs of any interior. They are durable and can be sanded and refinished. Additionally, it’s a cost-effective solution for creating an aesthetically pleasing interior. Although installing engineered timber flooring is easy, the step-by-step instructions will help you achieve perfection.
Pre-Installation:
Start with an external and internal site inspection. You must maintain the humidity level between 45 to 65 percent to avoid lifting from the boards. You can use a moisture metre to measure the moisture content. You need to rectify all sources of moisture before installation. Wait for construction dampness, such as recently installed concrete slabs or wet paint, to be dried completely.
It’s essential for the engineered floors to be placed on a levelled surface. Use a self-levelling compound for uneven subfloors. Make sure there is no 3mm height variation over 1m length.
The acclimation period for the engineered timber floors should be 48 hours. You must store the product in a dry place at room temperature between 14°C – 28°C, and rapid fluctuations in room temperature should be avoided.
Check each plank before installation and report any faults to the store for replacement before starting the installation. The installation should be done parallel to the length of the hallways.
Engineered wood floors can be installed onto concrete subfloors and existing wood. You should check the structural integrity of your subfloor and ensure that it’s clean, even, and dry.
Maintain an expansion gap of 15mm around the entire perimeter of the floor for floating installation. The same applies to the pillars, pipes, and fixtures. Use spacer wedges to regularly maintain the required gap between the first row of the boards along the length of the wall.
Installation:
Step 1:
For the first row plank, start by placing a 15mm thick spacer to the left side and set the plank against the wall. After three rows, you can conveniently position the flooring against the front wall at a distance of 15mm.
Step 2:
For the second plank, the first row, place the plank accurately to the short end of the first plank; fold the panel down in a single action movement. Make sure that the panels are tight enough against each other. Press or slightly tap down, without any significant force, at the installed short end until it clicks.
Step 3:
Use a 15mm spacer at the end of the first row and measure the length of the last plank to fit.
Step 4:
Keep the timber faced down if you use a jig saw for cutting, and if you use a hand saw, keep it face up to eliminate the damage and install the plank just like the previous one.
Step 5:
For better floor stability, keep the general distance between the short ends of the planks in parallel rows not less than 500mm.
Step 6:
For the second plank second row, place the panel tightly at an angle into the groove of the previous row. Fold it down in a single action movement with a slight press on the left to the short end of the last panel. Tap it using a tapping block against the long end into the previous row. Make sure that the panels are closed tightly with each other while folding down.
Step 7:
Press or gently tap on top of the short end of the installed panel until it clicks. For secure installation, tap on the long side of the plank using a tapping block.
Step 8:
Use a space after two or three rows to adjust the distance to the front wall. Once you complete the adjustment using a 15mm spacer against the main wall, keep installing until you reach the last row.
Step 9:
Ensure that the minimum width for the last plank in the last row should be less than 50mm. 15mm is the ideal distance to the wall.
Once done with the installation, you can remove any spacing wedges used during the process. If you have not removed the skirting boards for installation, you can use moulding trims attached to the skirting with glue or panel pins to cover the expansion gap. Use a door threshold strip to protect the edges of the floor at doorways.
Get Professional Help:
Although installing engineered timber flooring is relatively easy and less time-consuming, many homeowners prefer hiring professionals for peace of mind. The cost of getting your timber flooring installed by a professional depends on factors such as the size of the room, materials used, qualifications and experience of the professionals and more.
Summary
Engineered timber flooring is one of the most suitable options for modern Australian homes due to its longevity, low maintenance, and cosy look. They are easy to install when you follow the steps mentioned above and ensure the surface is levelled and the required temperature is maintained. At Mike’s Carpets Flooring & Blinds Centre, we have a range of options available for engineered timber flooring, and our products are carefully made to add value to your property. If you need any help with flooring installation, kindly contact us at 1300 365 887 or email us at contactus@mikescarpets.com.au.
