Engineered hardwood flooring is a stylish and durable choice that enhances any home with the warmth of real wood. Unlike solid hardwood, engineered wood consists of multiple layers, making it more stable and resistant to moisture. The best part? It’s easier to install, making it a great option for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.

If you're ready to upgrade your floors, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you install engineered hardwood flooring like a pro.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools & Materials

Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need for a smooth installation:

Tools Required:

✔ Measuring tape

✔ Chalk line or laser level

✔ Saw (circular saw, jigsaw, or table saw)

✔ Rubber mallet

✔ Pry bar

✔ Spacers

✔ Flooring adhesive (if gluing down)

✔ Underlayment (for floating floors)

✔ Nail gun or stapler (for nailed installation)

Materials:

✔ Engineered hardwood planks

✔ Moisture barrier (if installed over concrete)

✔ Transition strips (for doorways)

Step 2: Acclimate the Flooring

Before installation, let the engineered hardwood planks adjust to room temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours. Stack them in the room where they’ll be installed. This helps prevent warping or expansion after installation.

Step 3: Prepare the Subfloor

Your subfloor for the outdoor flooring must be clean, dry, and level before installing engineered hardwood.

• Concrete Subfloor: Apply a moisture barrier to prevent water damage.
• Wood Subfloor: Ensure it’s free of nails, dust, and debris. Sand down any high spots.
• Existing Flooring: You can install engineered hardwood over tile, vinyl, or plywood, but ensure it’s smooth and secure.

Step 4: Choose Your Installation Method

Engineered hardwood flooring offers three installation methods:

Floating Floor (Easiest & Most DIY-Friendly)

Planks snap together using a tongue-and-groove system.

Ideal for installing over existing flooring.

Requires an underlayment for sound absorption and moisture protection.

Glue-Down Method (Best for Concrete Subfloors)

Apply flooring adhesive to the subfloor and press planks into place.

Works well in high-moisture areas and provides a firm, stable floor.

Nail-Down Method (Best for Wooden Subfloors)

Use a nail gun or stapler to secure planks to a plywood subfloor.

Provides a traditional, sturdy flooring feel.

Step 5: Install the Flooring

✔ Start in a Corner: Lay the first plank against the wall, using spacers to leave a ¼-inch expansion gap.

✔ Continue Row by Row: Stagger the planks in a random pattern for a natural wood look.

✔ Secure Each Plank: Depending on your chosen method, either click, glue, or nail the boards into place.

✔ Trim for a Perfect Fit: Use a saw to cut planks to fit around walls, doorways, and corners.

Step 6: Install Transition Strips & Finishing Touches

Remove the spacers and install transition strips in doorways.

Add baseboards or quarter-round molding to cover the expansion gap.

Clean up any dust and debris to reveal your stunning new floor.

Final Thoughts

Installing engineered hardwood flooring is a rewarding project that adds value, beauty, and durability to your home. Whether you choose a floating, glue-down, or nail-down method, following these steps will ensure a flawless installation.