Supplies for a gluing placement

What does a gluing installation entail?

In an adhesive installation, the parquet floor is glued directly to the existing subfloor. Using a glue comb, the parquet glue is spread over the subfloor, after which the floorboards are placed. Since it still requires some knowledge and dexterity, it is best to leave this method to a professional installer.

Advantages:

• Compared to a floating installation, a lot less noise.
• The parquet floor works as a whole instead of plank by plank

Disadvantages:

• Installation requires a bit more knowledge and patience
• In the future, breakout work may be possible where you can damage the parquet floor.
• More cost compared to floating installation because quality parquet glue has a higher price.

How should I glue a wood floor to the substrate?

Preparation

A first step is to look at the subfloor on which the parquet will be installed. It is possible to glue the floor onto an already existing floor but gluing directly onto the screed is a method that is becoming increasingly common. Make sure that the screed is dry enough. A simple way to check this is to cover the screed with a plastic film. If there is condensation, it is better to wait a while until the screed is dry enough. 

Before installation it is very important to let the floor acclimate to the room for a few days. When the screed is dry enough make sure the subfloor is completely clean. If the screed is unstable, it is very important to level it. With a screed that is too granular you are often forced to prime everything. This way the screed becomes more solid again and the glue has a better adhesion. 

The first strip

If you have never installed flooring before and would like to get off to a good start, it is best to use a rope to lay out the first line. This will make you fairly certain of a straight strip which will make a big difference to your project. Always start at a corner of your choice and make sure the boards are grooved toward the wall. Keep a space of 15mm so the floor has room to work after installation. Place spacers for this purpose. To be sure, lay out a strip of planks first so you can see the length of the first strip. Spread the glue with the appropriate notched trowel and place the planks so that they fit together properly. You can always use tapping blocks and a heel iron to make the boards fit together smoothly.

Further installation process

Always work with the sawn-off piece of plank from the previous row to avoid as much loss as possible. Also keep tapping the boards lightly where necessary for a nice fit. After installing the last strip, it is best to let the floor dry for 24 hours before walking on it. After 48 hours you can furniture the floor again.

After installation

Now that the floor has been installed according to your wishes, it is very important to treat the floor with an appropriate oil, varnish or lacquer. After this it is best to place the skirting boards.