Why Should You Choose A Floating Hardwood Floor?
A floating hardwood floor is not supported by any type of subfloor and they are instead suspended above the floor by a cushion. While the oldest method of installation is known as the glue together method, many others have been devised over the years as this can be messy and glue must be applied to every tongue in order for it to work. This article will cover a few of the more effective methods for installing a floating hardwood floor to give you a better idea of the options available.
In order to cut down on the mess and hassle of installing a floating hardwood floor, the click type was invented which do not require glue. Each manufacturer has their own type of design, but what they all share is a mechanized system that will keep the boards in place. The level of difficulty changes depending on the kit you are working with. Sometimes it can be as easy as sliding the boards into place and waiting to hear a click, while other times, especially if the boards are thicker, it can take quite a bit of force and tapping in order to get them into place.
Another new method for installing a floating hardwood floor is the lock and fold type. This is probably one of the easiest methods available because there is no glue needed, nor do you have to force or tap the boards into place. Instead, you first lay down a cushioned underlay that you will use to place the boards on. The boards are then connected to one another with adjoining pieces that fold over to both keep them in place as well as create a more seamless appearance.
If you are interested in a solid floor, you probably will have to have it installed in a more traditional method using a subfloor. Practically every floating hardwood floor today is made with engineered wood. Solid woods are just too unstable because they are subject to expanding and contracting due to the weather, while engineered wood will pretty much stay the same size except when subjected to water or extreme humidity. So they are just not too suitable for a floating installation.
There are many benefits to choosing a floating hardwood floor; for one thing if you are not sure of the stability of your current ceramic tile or subfloors, they can be installed right over top of them without any worries. Although some may say that they do not like the hollow feeling of stepping over a floating hardwood floor, this is a fairly insignificant issue and probably exaggerated to some extent.
In fact, you will probably enjoy stepping over top of them because they are very comfortable even for extended periods of time. It can take anywhere from 6 to 8 hours to install, so if you do not have much experience be sure to ask a professional for help.
