How do I install solid wood floors with glue?

There are many installation options for FEEL WOOD solid wood floors. They can be fitted with either clips or screws. But today we are going to look at how to install the boards using glue.

Gluing is a popular method of laying a classic solid wood floor. It offers numerous benefits and an aesthetically pleasing end result. We will show you step by step how to ensure optimum adhesion and avoid potential mistakes.

Step-by-step instructions for a perfect result

We leave no question unanswered, from the correct preparation of the substrate to the correct application of the glue. Laying your FEEL WOOD solid wood floor is child’s play with our helpful tips and tricks.

It is important to note that the planks should be acclimatised for at least 48 hours in the unopened packaging before installation. Lay the packs of planks horizontally and flat on the floor, keeping a minimum distance of 50 cm from the walls so that the heat can reach all the planks in the pack. This allows the wood to adapt to the climatic conditions of the room. This is the classic installation method for solid wood floors.

1.Preparation

  • When preparing to install a solid wood floor, there are some important steps to take. Firstly, you should make sure that you have all the tools you need. These include a hammer, tapping block, wedges, saw and spatula as specified by the adhesive manufacturer.
  • Another important aspect is the surface. It must be hard, flat and dry. To ensure surface consolidation and to act as a moisture barrier, it is advisable to apply a primer recommended by the manufacturer in advance.
  • Before the floor is actually laid, the residual moisture of the screed must be tested at several points (not only on the surface, but also by means of a calcium carbide test) in accordance with DIN 18356. Residual moisture should not exceed 1.8% in cement screeds and 0.3% in anhydrite screeds.

2. Installation

  • FEEL WOOD solid wood products are sorted by our experienced staff according to fixed rules. This is not a reason for complaint if no more than 5% of the order quantity is affected.
  • We recommend that solid wood planks are inspected for visible defects, damage/wood moisture. FEEL WOOD solid wood flooring is delivered with a residual moisture content of 9 % (+/-2 %) (single piece measured lengthwise).
  • In order to achieve the desired grading pattern or overall appearance, it is recommended that the boards are laid loosely before final bonding.
  • The glue should be applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions using a suitable spatula.
  • The first row of boards is then laid in the adhesive bed with a minimum distance of 15 mm from the wall. Once the first rows have been laid, check that everything is aligned and adjust if necessary! It is also important to ensure that this first row is well consolidated before starting the other rows.  
  • The difference in height of the substrate must not exceed 9 mm for a room width or length of 4 m and 12 mm for a room width or length of 10 m.
  • The remaining boards are then inserted into the tongue and groove joint, making sure that they lie completely in the adhesive bed. If necessary, the boards can be weighted down (e.g. with a sandbag).  
  • Maintain a wall distance of at least 15 mm. For fixed components, door frames, heating pipes, etc.,should be used the specified standard gaps . Respect the on-site expansion gaps of the substrate, never cover/tape over on-site expansion gaps.

3. Installing the baseboard

  • Once all the planks have been laid, you can remove the wedges and cover the resulting gaps to the wall with a compatible baseboard.

This installation technique allows solid wood floors to be installed in a professional manner. Nothing stands in the way of a successful project if you prepare carefully and follow these steps!

Practice tip

In order to get the most out of your FEEL WOOD floor, maintenance immediately after installation is particularly important. Floorboards are usually delivered with a finished surface. However, during the construction and installation phases, soiling can occur. To show off your floor in its new home and enhance its natural beauty, we recommend that you carry out some simple maintenance immediately after installation.

There are lots more tips and tricks for the installation and maintenance of your FEEL WOOD wooden floor in our blog.