Many homeowners love the warm and timeless beauty of solid hardwood flooring. However, when it comes to installing it in a house with a concrete subfloor, there can be some doubts and uncertainties. Traditionally, solid hardwood flooring has been installed over a plywood subfloor, but with advancements in technology and construction techniques, it is now possible to install solid hardwood flooring directly over a concrete subfloor. In this article, we will explore the process and considerations involved in installing solid hardwood flooring over concrete.
Preparation is key
Before jumping into installing solid hardwood flooring over a concrete subfloor, it is important to ensure that the surface is properly prepared. Concrete floors should be clean, level, and dry. Any existing flooring, such as carpet or tile, must be removed. Additionally, any remaining adhesive or mortar should be scraped off to create a smooth surface.
Moisture and moisture barriers
One of the biggest concerns when installing solid hardwood flooring over concrete is moisture. Concrete is known for its ability to retain water, and if moisture seeps into the hardwood flooring, it can cause warping, cupping, or even mold growth. Therefore, it is crucial to test the moisture levels of the concrete subfloor before proceeding.
A common way to mitigate moisture is through the use of a moisture barrier. This can be a plastic sheet, such as polyethylene, or a specialized moisture barrier product. The moisture barrier should be laid over the concrete subfloor, with overlapping seams, to create a continuous barrier.
The subfloor
Since solid hardwood flooring cannot be directly attached to concrete, a subfloor is needed to provide a stable surface for installation. One option is to install a plywood subfloor over the concrete. The plywood should be a minimum of 3/4 inch thick, exterior-grade, and properly fastened to the concrete using construction adhesive and concrete fasteners.
Another option is to use a sleeper system. This involves placing pressure-treated 2×4 or 2×6 boards directly on the concrete, spaced about 16 inches apart. The solid hardwood flooring is then installed over these sleepers, creating an air gap between the concrete and the hardwood.
Installation process
Once the subfloor is in place, the installation of solid hardwood flooring can proceed. The installation method may depend on the specific type of hardwood flooring being used, whether it is nail-down, glue-down, or floating.
Nail-down installation involves using a pneumatic nailer to secure the hardwood planks to the subfloor. Glue-down installation requires applying a specialized hardwood flooring adhesive to the subfloor and then pressing the planks into the adhesive. Floating installation involves attaching the planks to each other rather than the subfloor.
In all cases, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use the recommended tools and materials. It is also essential to leave appropriate expansion gaps around the edges of the flooring to account for any natural expansion and contraction.
Considerations and drawbacks
While it is possible to install solid hardwood flooring over concrete, there are some considerations and drawbacks to keep in mind. Firstly, this installation method can increase the height of the floor, which might cause issues with transitions to other rooms or door clearance. Secondly, solid hardwood flooring can be more susceptible to moisture damage compared to engineered hardwood or other flooring options, even with proper preparation and moisture barriers.
Additionally, the installation process itself can be more challenging compared to traditional plywood subfloors. It requires specialized tools, such as nailers or adhesives, and might be more time-consuming or costly.
It is possible to install solid hardwood flooring over a concrete subfloor, but it requires thorough preparation, moisture mitigation measures, and the appropriate installation method. Consulting with a professional flooring installer or manufacturer is highly recommended to ensure a successful and long-lasting installation.