As the name suggests the hardwood flooring is installed using adhesives to bond the wood to the sub-floor. This type of installation is good for concrete and wood floors.
Preparations for Glueing Down a Hardwood Floor.
When installing hardwood floors over concrete using the glue down method, the moisture content in the concrete must be taken into consideration. Confirm with the manufacturer what the acceptable ratio is.
Accurately calculate the width of the last row of hardwood to be laid down. If the measurement is less than 1.5" you will need to distribute this between all the rows. The last row usually always needs to be cut to fit.
Choose an outside wall as your starting point. (An outside wall tends to be straighter and more square than an inside wall.) Measure two board widths from this wall and mark a chalk line. As previously stated not all walls are by default straight - so some boards may need to be shaved / sanded to fit.
Make sure the sub-floor should is as dirt free as possible - you want the glue to stick to the sub floor not the dirt in between.
Installing Hardwood Floors Using the Glue Down Method.
Using a v-notched trowel spread the glue from the chalk markings out to the equivalent width of two boards. The glue will then have to be left to set for about half an hour. After this the first row of boards can be fitted - be sure that the tongues are facing the chosen starter wall. Getting the boards perfectly aligned is crucial.
For a uniform surface you will need to pay attention to the tongue and grooves. You will benefit from using a wood block to tap them into place . Once the initial two rows are in place you will need to use the trowel to spread out more glue - 3 feet. The boards are then "tapped" into place. Try and use different lengths - this way joints will not be on top of each other (it is wise to have them no less than 6'' from each other.)
Finally once you have got several rows under your belt you may want to keep them from shifting by using strips of tape placed at right angles to the boards. Remember on the last row, you will have to remove the tongue for it to fit - you might also have to utilize a pry bar to slip it in.
