Many people are put off by the thought of installing their own wood flooring, but they will be surprised to find out how uncomplicated it actually is!
Step 1: Remove the Baseboards: As with all flooring projects, the rooms baseboard has to be removed. Simply use a stiff putty knife or similar device to pry them right off; to be sure the wall and baseboard are not damaged, place a block between the tool and the wall. If everything goes well, all you have to do is reattach them at the end of the day.
Step 2: Install the subfloor: The sub floor has to be installed. It needs to be a whole layer. The seams should overlap about 3 inches. Align the first tile with two groove sides against the spacer boards. You may be able to do this by eye. Stagger the second row so the seams are off-set. Once thats laid down, tack the edges with a staple gun.
Step 3: Begin with the first board: Fit one of the boards into a corner by using a spacer to leave an expansion gap between the wall and the flooring. Slide the second floorboard into the end of the first one, ensuring the tongue-and-groove fit together nicely. Make sure to press firmly during this part.
Step 4: Apply adhesive to edges: Before you continue laying out boards, apply adhesive to just the edges. Be sure not to get the glue in the actual grooves themselves. Try using the aliphatic resin glue that dries within the hour and completely cures within a day. Make sure to wipe away any excess.
Step 5: Position the next board: Continue laying the boards into the proper grooves. You should be able to do it just by sight; always make sure its lined up correctly. Secure these boards by tapping them into place gently with a hammer. It is important to place a scrap piece of wood between the hammer itself, and the new flooring to avoid damage.
Step 6: Finish Lying: Continue until all the boards are in place. Make certain you are keeping an eye on the flooring as you do this. Take extra caution to be sure any mistakes are spotted early or you will be wasting both time and money.
Step 7: Ease the last board in: The final row is extremely important in this entire process. It is a test to see how well you have done on the installation. Use a block and pry bar to wedge this last board into place; it will be a tight fit if done correctly. Do it carefully to avoid damage. Once thats completed, reinstall the baseboard.
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