CAN HARDWOOD FLOORING BE INSTALLED ON TOP OF CONCRETE? | HARDWOOD FLOORS | CHARLOTTE NC

CAN HARDWOOD FLOORING BE INSTALLED ON TOP OF CONCRETE?

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WOODEN FLOORS

Installing a wood floor involves sine challenges like the substrate where they rest. In this way, placing your hardwood floor over a wood subfloor can be easier and more convenient than installing it over a concrete slab.

However, if you do not have an option other than installing your floor over concrete, the best is to consider some factors.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT FLOOR

Wood flooring is available in solid wood, engineered wood, and laminate options.

For one thing, solid wood flooring consists of a set of boards that you can install higher than ground levels. Therefore, experts do not recommend any installation below grade (basement).

ENGINEERED WOOD FLOORING

On the other hand, engineered wood flooring involves multiple layers of hardwood with a solid wood top finish. Therefore, this material does not expand and contract like solid planks when temperature and humidity change. In this regard, you can install engineered wood and laminate below grade. However, the only option is to take moisture control measures.

CLEAN SURFACE A clean surface is essential, and the best measure is to treat it with acid or a specialized concrete cleaner. You must provide the area with good ventilation and dry the slab before installing the hardwood flooring. The floor must be clean and dry for the glue to adhere. And professionals recommend an adequate amount of quality glue designed for wood floor installation.

Likewise, laminate is more suitable for the gluing method as it is more flexible than solid wood.

HUMIDITY

If you've just installed a concrete slab, you should check the humidity before installing any hardwood flooring.

Consequently, new concrete must cure for six to eight weeks for the moisture to dissipate. If the concrete slab is older, counteract moisture levels by placing a polyethylene barrier in various floor areas. Then, if there is no condensation, the concrete slab is suitable for wooden floor installation.

Undoubtedly, the best addition to installing hardwood flooring over concrete is by placing

¾ inch thick wood over the

concrete. Although an underlayment will raise your floor level, it will allow you to install your chosen hardwood easier.

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