Engineered Hardwood Installation Guide
Professional Standards
This page is a technical installation reference for engineered hardwood flooring, covering acclimation, subfloor requirements, and step-by-step installation methods (glue-down and floating). For installation services and material selection help, use the related pages linked below.
Scope & Reference Links
This guide applies to engineered hardwood installations. It is written to support best practices and reduce jobsite issues related to moisture, flatness, acclimation, and technique.
- For professional installation services, see Hardwood Floor Installation in Vancouver & the Lower Mainland .
- Comparing materials before choosing? See Engineered Hardwood vs Luxury Vinyl Flooring .
- If your project needs waterproof performance, review Vinyl Plank Flooring Options in Vancouver .
Important: Installation equals acceptance. Do not install boards with visible defects. Natural variation in wood is normal. Always follow the adhesive and underlayment manufacturer instructions for your specific product/system.
Preparation & General Procedures
Engineered hardwood can be installed above grade, on grade, or below grade depending on the method and jobsite conditions. Do not install over carpet. Remove any hardwood glued directly to concrete before proceeding.
Quick Standards
- Acclimate planks for 48–72 hours in the installation area (or per product specification).
- Maintain indoor temperature and humidity within target range before, during, and after installation.
- Leave 3/8” expansion space at walls and fixed objects (unless product requires otherwise).
- Install planks parallel to the longest wall when practical to improve visual flow and reduce cuts.
- Order 5–7% extra material for cuts, grading, and layout.
Acclimation & Jobsite Conditions
Stable environmental conditions are the biggest factor in long-term performance. HVAC must be operating and conditions stabilized before flooring is delivered and installed.
| Condition | Target Standard | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 60–80°F (15–27°C) | Maintain before/during/after installation. |
| Relative Humidity | 30–50% | Keep stable year-round to reduce movement. |
| HVAC Operation | 14 days prior | Confirm systems are running and stable. |
| Carton Handling | Ventilate cartons | Open both ends; cut plastic wrap to allow airflow. |
| Expansion Space | 3/8” minimum | All walls, posts, cabinetry, and fixed objects. |
Tip: Always confirm the product’s specific installation sheet if it differs from general ranges above (especially for very wide planks).
Pre-Installation Inspection
Inspect every board before installation. Do not install pieces with visible defects. Installation constitutes acceptance. Industry standard allows up to 5% irregularity for natural wood variation and grading.
Layout & Waste Planning
- Dry-lay a few rows to confirm visual blend and board length distribution.
- Stagger end joints to avoid “H-joints” and repeating patterns.
- Plan transitions and expansion breaks at thresholds, long runs, and doorways as required.
- Order 5–7% extra material for cuts and grading (more for complex layouts).
Subfloor Preparation Requirements
Subfloor flatness and moisture control are essential. Correct issues before installation—do not “force” boards to close over humps or dips.
Concrete Subfloor
- Concrete fully cured: 50–60 days minimum
- Compressive strength: 3000 PSI
- Flatness: 3/16” over 10’
- Moisture test required (Calcium Chloride or moisture meter)
- If over 3 lbs / 1000 sq ft / 24h → use approved vapor retarder system
- Do not sand existing vinyl tile (potential asbestos risk)
Wood Subfloor
- Moisture content: 12% or less
- Re-nail loose areas to reduce squeaks and movement
- Plane/sand high spots; fill lows with leveling compound
- Flatness: 3/16” over 10’
- Confirm fastener schedule and structural integrity
Over Radiant Heat
- System must run for 21 days prior to installation
- Turn heat off 24 hours before & after installation
- Do not exceed 82°F (28°C) floor temperature
- Increase temperature in 5° increments when restarting
- Use vapor retarder (6 mil minimum) and compatible underlayment
Radiant heat systems require careful moisture and temperature control. Always verify product compatibility before proceeding.
Glue-Down Installation (Step-by-Step)
Use a compatible urethane adhesive and follow the adhesive manufacturer’s open time and trowel requirements. Keep boards aligned and maintain expansion spacing.
- Snap a control line parallel to the starting wall for alignment.
- Install a holding board if needed to keep the first rows straight.
- Apply urethane adhesive using the specified trowel; follow open-time instructions.
- Set the first plank with the groove toward the wall; maintain expansion spacing.
- Stagger end joints 8–10 inches between adjacent rows.
- Use a rubber mallet and tapping block—never strike the plank directly.
- Clean excess adhesive immediately; do not allow it to cure on the surface.
- Roll the floor with a 100–150 lb roller every 2–3 hours (or per adhesive spec).
Tip: If boards are not seating correctly, stop and re-check flatness/moisture and adhesive working time.
Floating Installation (Step-by-Step)
Floating installations require a moisture barrier and underlayment system appropriate for the substrate and product. Keep seams tight and transitions clean.
- Install moisture barrier and underlayment (2-in-1 or equivalent) as required.
- Snap a chalk line for first row alignment.
- If product requires it, apply tongue-and-groove adhesive per manufacturer instructions.
- Stagger end joints 6–10 inches minimum and avoid repeating patterns.
- Use tapping block and pull bar to tighten joints without damaging edges.
- Undercut door casings for clean transitions and proper expansion room.
- Keep construction traffic off the floor for at least 8 hours (or per product spec).
Tip: Maintain expansion gaps at all vertical obstructions and use appropriate moldings to cover gaps without pinning the floor.
Installer / Owner Responsibility
The installer must verify jobsite conditions meet standards before installation. Manufacturer and retailer are not responsible for failures caused by jobsite conditions or improper methods.
Common Causes of Failure
- Poor acclimation or unstable humidity/temperature
- Incorrect adhesives, underlayment, or installation technique
- Unprepared or uneven subfloors
- Improper radiant heat settings or rapid temperature changes
- Moisture intrusion or lack of vapor control
Always retain documentation of moisture readings, product lot numbers, adhesive used, and environmental conditions at time of installation.
Cleaning & Care After Installation
Proper maintenance protects finish appearance and reduces scratch wear. Use entry mats, felt pads, and appropriate cleaners.
- Vacuum using a soft-bristle floor attachment.
- Use mats at entrances to reduce grit and moisture.
- No wet mopping / no steam cleaners.
- No oil soaps or wax-based cleaners.
- Use felt pads under furniture legs and lift furniture—do not drag.
If hardwood isn’t the right match for a moisture-prone space, consider waterproof alternatives like vinyl plank flooring .
This technical guide is provided for general reference. Always defer to the specific engineered hardwood product’s installation document and applicable local building requirements.