How to Install a Bamboo Floor: Frequently Asked Questions

You’ve opted to install bamboo flooring. You go out and get the required supplies and then bring them inside. So what? How do you guarantee your new floor will last as long as possible? Checking the quality of your supplies should be one of your initial moves. Because it is made from nature, bamboo will have subtle color shifts. It is preferable to send back any defective materials to the manufacturer.

Prepare the floor for what?

Making ensuring the subfloor is in good condition is crucial to the success of your bamboo flooring installation. Particleboard subfloors are not acceptable because of bamboo’s characteristics. You can use 34″ OSB, 5/8″ plywood, concrete, or an already installed solid wood subfloor for subfloor. This will reduce the humidity and ensure that the bamboo adhesive holds. The best possible installation can only be achieved with a level subfloor. Subfloor moisture shouldn’t be more than 2%; ideally, it wouldn’t be there.

Do We Get to Install Now?

Ten days of stable humidity and temperature are required before installation. Most warranties will be null and void if the temperature in the room is 80 degrees or lower or if the humidity is permitted to fluctuate over 65% or below 35%. The humidity level in the room where the floor will be laid can be adjusted with a dehumidifier or humidifier. Before beginning an installation, the floor should always be swept. The floor will no longer lie flat if dirt is left behind.

Where Should I Put the Nails?

Nail, glue, or the floating method can all be used to secure bamboo flooring. When nailing, the boards should be started at right angles to the walls. Use a chalk line to ensure it is perpendicular to its most extended length. Leave a 3/8″ gap for mounting to a wall, base plate, or vertically fixed surface. This can be easily ensured by using spacers built on-site. After wedging or face-nailing the initial rows firmly into place, you can add more rows. Nailing them blind at an angle of 45-50 degrees precisely over each tongue is essential. In addition, you should use no fewer than two fasteners for each plank, preferably more like four.

You should “Stick To It?”

Use an elastomeric moisture barrier adhesive for wood floors, such as “Bostik’s Best” or “Franklin’s 811 Plus.” Use, store, and dispose of the adhesive by the manufacturer’s instructions. When you’re ready to put everything in place, use a notched trowel to spread the glue. Use only as much as you can cover in one hour to prevent the glue from drying before the planks are set in place. The planks can be laid when the glue has become sticky. Install the boards using the same nailing technique, taking care to alternate the tones as you go. Keep going until the whole floor is coated. Any glue that makes its way onto the surface must be cleaned off immediately. It’s nearly impossible to get rid of after it’s treated.

Do You Feel Like Floating?

To protect your subfloor and flooring from moisture, you must use an appropriate vapor barrier and underlayment while floating your floors. To achieve complete coverage of the subfloor, it is also necessary to tape the seams. E-Z Bond (1-866-239-2663) is one such glue that comes highly suggested. Remember! It is similar to “super glue” in that it “sets” in about 15 seconds. Ensure a snug fit between the boards before you glue them together. Use spacers at the outset of the installation to keep the recommended expansion perimeter (3/8″) intact. Apply adhesive along the bottom of the groove, then press the beginning row against the wall. Use a tapping block to join the planks quickly. The glue should also be applied to the underside of the groove at the end joints of the first few rows.

You’ve finally laid down that bamboo flooring. Relax and take in the air of sophistication it has brought to the room. Your bamboo floor will last decades if you maintain consistent humidity and temperature.

Pop & Thistle features articles on sustainable living, birthdays, recipes, pet profiles, travelogues, sustainable design, and home decor.

Read also: Changing Every Aspect of Your Computer’s Desktop