The Complete Guide to Wood Flooring Installation: Engineered, Solid & Click Systems

• December 23 2025
• 9 min reading time

Installing wood flooring is a rewarding investment in your home. Whether you choose engineered wood flooring or solid wood flooring from Pukka Flooring, success depends on understanding the installation process. This guide covers three primary methods: floating floors with click systems, glued seam installation, and full glue-down methods.

SECTION 1: SUBFLOOR PREPARATION

Proper subfloor preparation is critical before any wood flooring installation.

MOISTURE CONTROL

Wood expands and contracts with humidity changes. Moisture control is the most important factor in successful installation.

Key Requirements:

• Wood substrates: Moisture content must not exceed 12%. Difference between subfloor and new flooring must be less than 4%.
• Concrete slabs: Maximum moisture emission is 3 lbs./1000 sq. ft./24 hours.
• Acclimation: All wood flooring must acclimate to room temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours before installation.
• Installing over a damp subfloor causes cupping, warping, and premature failure. Always test your subfloor with a moisture meter before beginning.

FLATNESS AND SOUNDNESS

Your subfloor must be level within 1/8 inch across a 6-foot span.

Steps to Ensure Flatness:

• Identify high spots and sand them down
• Fill low spots with cement-based levelling compound
• Secure loose subfloor boards with nails or screws
• Remove all old adhesive residue
• A properly prepared subfloor ensures a floor that lasts 20+ years.

SECTION 2: ENGINEERED WOOD FLOORING INSTALLATION

Engineered wood offers three distinct installation methods.

METHOD 1: FLOATING FLOOR WITH CLICK SYSTEM (GLUELESS)

Click system flooring is the most popular DIY method. Planks feature precision-milled joints that lock together mechanically without adhesive.

Step-by-Step Installation:

1. Install Underlayment

• Lay high-quality underlayment across the entire subfloor
• Provides cushioning, sound dampening, and moisture barrier
• Overlap seams by at least 4 inches and tape together

2. Prepare the First Row

• Begin along the longest wall
• Orient planks with tongue side facing the wall
• Install 10-12mm expansion gap spacers at all walls
• These gaps allow wood to expand and contract naturally

3. Click Planks Together

• Angle new plank at 45 degrees
• Push forward to meet the previous plank
• Lower down and press until you hear a "click"
• Joint should be tight with no visible gaps

4. Tighten Joints

• Use tapping block and rubber mallet for tight joints
• Use pull bar to draw planks together if needed
• Check each row for straightness
• Stagger end joints by at least 6 inches between rows

Advantages: No adhesive required, DIY-friendly, can be removed and reinstalled, fastest method.

METHOD 2: FLOATING FLOOR WITH TONGUE & GROOVE GLUED SEAM

This method bonds planks to each other while the floor floats over the subfloor.

Step-by-Step Installation:

1. Select the Right Adhesive

• Use specialized wood flooring adhesive (PVA or polyurethane-based)
• Never use standard wood glue—it's too rigid
• Follow manufacturer's recommendations for application and curing

2. Apply Glue to the Groove

• Apply thin bead of adhesive along the top side of the groove
• Use glue applicator bottle for precise control
• Apply only enough glue for a thin bond line

3. Join Planks Together

• Insert tongue of new plank into glued groove
• Use tapping block and rubber mallet to seat firmly
• Ensure joint is completely tight

4. Clean Excess Adhesive Immediately

• Wipe away excess glue with clean, damp cloth
• Don't allow adhesive to dry on surface
• Allow 24 hours curing time before walking on floor

Advantages: More rigid connection, better for high-traffic areas, reduces plank movement and noise.

METHOD 3: FULL GLUE-DOWN INSTALLATION

This method permanently bonds wood to the subfloor. Recommended for wide planks, large rooms, or underfloor heating.

When to Choose Glue-Down:

• Installing wide planks (wider than 7 inches)
• Large open floor areas
• Over radiant floor heating systems
• High-moisture environments (kitchens, bathrooms)
• Maximum stability required

Step-by-Step Installation:

1. Choose the Right Adhesive

• Use flexible, moisture-resistant elastic bonding adhesive
• Recommended: SikaBond-T54, SikaBond-T64, or equivalent
• Elastic adhesives allow wood movement while maintaining bond
• Avoid rigid adhesives

2. Prepare the Subfloor

• Ensure subfloor is completely clean and dust-free
• Vacuum thoroughly
• For concrete, consider applying primer (Sika Primer MB)

3. Apply Adhesive

• Use manufacturer's recommended notched trowel (6mm or 8mm)
• Apply at 45-degree angle to create uniform ridges
• Only spread area you can cover in working time (pot life: 15-30 minutes)
• Create continuous bed with no voids

4. Lay Planks into Wet Adhesive

• Place planks directly into wet adhesive
• Press down firmly for full contact
• Adhesive ridges should collapse and create solid bond
  

5. Roll for Maximum Adhesive Transfer

• Use floor roller (150-200 lbs) immediately after laying
• Roll in multiple directions for even pressure
• Ensures maximum adhesive transfer to plank backs
• Poor rolling results in hollow spots and squeaky floors

Advantages: Maximum stability, ideal for wide planks, works over underfloor heating, reduces noise and movement.

SECTION 3: SOLID WOOD FLOORING INSTALLATION

Solid wood is more susceptible to moisture and temperature changes. Professional installation is recommended.

METHOD 1: SECRET NAILING (FOR WOODEN SUBFLOORS)

Planks are secured by driving nails through the tongue at 45-degree angle.

Installation Process:

• Drive nails through tongue at 45-degree angle
• Nails should penetrate into subfloor or joists
• Spacing: 8-12 inches apart along plank length
• Use ring-shank or spiral nails for better holding power
• Pneumatic flooring nailer recommended for speed and consistency
• Maintain 10-12mm expansion gaps at all walls

Professional Recommendation: Secret nailing requires significant skill. We recommend hiring a professional flooring installer.

METHOD 2: FULL GLUE-DOWN FOR SOLID WOOD

Solid wood can be glued down to concrete or plywood bases for maximum stability.

When to Choose:

• Installing over concrete subfloors
• Wide solid wood planks (wider than 5 inches)
• Maximum stability required
• Underfloor heating installations

Installation Process:

• Use elastic bonding adhesives rated for solid wood (SikaBond-T54/T64)
• Apply adhesive using same technique as engineered wood
• Spread only area you can cover in working time
• Lay planks firmly into wet adhesive
• Roll immediately with floor roller
• Allow 24-48 hours curing before walking on floor

Professional Recommendation: Solid wood glue-down installation is best performed by experienced professionals.

SECTION 4: COMMON INSTALLATION MISTAKES

Mistake 1: Skipping Subfloor Preparation

• Problem: Installing over uneven or damp subfloor
• Result: Cupping, warping, squeaking, premature failure
• Solution: Always test moisture, check flatness, prepare thoroughly

Mistake 2: Ignoring Expansion Gaps

• Problem: Installing planks too close to walls
• Result: Buckling and warping as wood expands
• Solution: Maintain 10-12mm gaps at all walls and transitions

Mistake 3: Using Wrong Adhesive

• Problem: Using rigid glues instead of flexible bonding adhesives
• Result: Cracking, splitting, joint failure
• Solution: Always use elastic bonding adhesives rated for flooring

Mistake 4: Poor Moisture Control

• Problem: Installing over damp subfloors or in high-humidity environments
• Result: Mold, mildew, wood degradation
• Solution: Test moisture levels and maintain humidity at 35-55%

Mistake 5: Inadequate Underlayment

• Problem: Using cheap or inappropriate underlayment
• Result: Noise, movement, reduced comfort
• Solution: Invest in quality underlayment rated for your flooring type

SECTION 5: TOOLS AND MATERIALS CHECKLIST

Essential Tools:

• Moisture meter
• 6-foot straightedge
• Tapping block and rubber mallet
• Pull bar
• Pneumatic flooring nailer (for solid wood)
• Notched trowel (for glue-down)
• Floor roller (150-200 lbs)
• Circular saw or miter saw
• 10-12mm expansion gap spacers
• Safety equipment (dust mask, safety glasses, hearing protection)

Materials Needed:

• Wood flooring (engineered or solid)
• Underlayment
• Wood flooring adhesive (if using glued methods)
• Expansion gap spacers
• Finishing nails or screws
• Sandpaper
• Levelling compound (if needed)

SECTION 6: AFTERCARE AND MAINTENANCE

Immediate Aftercare (First 24-48 Hours):

• Keep room at stable temperature and humidity
• Don't walk on newly installed glued floors for 24 hours
• Avoid water and moisture during curing
• Maintain proper ventilation

Long-Term Maintenance:

• Vacuum or sweep regularly
• Use damp (not wet) mop for cleaning
• Maintain humidity levels between 35-55%
• Avoid direct sunlight (causes fading)
• Use felt pads under furniture
• Refinish or reseal as needed (every 3-5 years for solid wood)

Installing wood flooring is a significant investment in your home's beauty and value. By following this guide and choosing the right installation method for your situation, you'll achieve professional results lasting decades.

Key Takeaways:

• Proper subfloor preparation is non-negotiable
• Moisture control is the most critical factor
• Choose the installation method matching your skill level
• Use quality materials and follow manufacturer instructions
• Consider professional installation for solid wood or complex projects
• Maintain your floor properly for long-term durability

Ready to transform your home? Browse our premium engineered and solid wood flooring collection at Pukka Flooring. Contact our team for expert guidance on choosing the perfect flooring for your home.

Leave a comment

Leave a comment

Name*

Email*

Comment*

Send

• Share on:
• WhatsApp
• Deel
• X
• Pin it
• Messenger
• Email
• Share

---