If you have decided that you want to install hardwood floors in your home, you’ll need to know some essential things about how to use adhesives. You’ll need to figure out what type of adhesive to use, how to test it, and whether you should be nailing or gluing your floors.
Unfinished or prefinished hardwood flooring?
Unfinished hardwood flooring and prefinished hardwood flooring are two popular choices when it comes to updating the look of a room. Both have their strengths and weaknesses. Choosing the best one for your space depends on several factors. Fortunately, your floor installer can help you decide between the two.
The benefits of unfinished wood include easy installation and less maintenance. Prefinished woods require a little more work but are also less expensive. Depending on the quality of the material and your particular style, you could pay anywhere from $3 to $10 per square foot to install.
Those not comfortable installing prefinished materials should consider an alternative, such as plywood. This alternative will require a bit more work, but it will add value to your home.
Another advantage of prefinished wood is its longevity. It can last for decades, unlike the few years that unfinished hardwoods typically get.
One of the most popular benefits of unfinished hardwood is its authentic look. Typically, these floors are tongue and grooved or have a plank design. They are painted, stained, or waxed. These finishes give the wood a nice finish and a more rustic appearance.
The downside to unfinished hardwood is that you’ll have to wait for it to cure. Unlike prefinished flooring, which is already ready to use, you’ll have to let it dry for a few days before placing furniture on it. Luckily, most manufacturers provide a warranty. You may check Bostik products to learn more about this.
Unfinished hardwood can be custom crafted to your specifications. You can use a stain, paint, or oil to achieve a look that’s unique to you. There are numerous varieties of wood, so you should be able to find the right color or type for your space.
Gluing vs. nailing
When installing a hardwood floor, you will likely have to choose between a nailing or gluing method. It is because the two methods have their advantages and disadvantages.
Nailing a hardwood floor is not only quick and easy, but it also prevents gaps from appearing between the planks. Using the proper nail gun, you can bond strongly between the planks and the subfloor. However, you can only use this method on wooden subfloors. Gluing a hardwood floor is more permanent.
The most significant difference between nailing and gluing is your time and materials to complete the task. Nailing requires using a nail gun and extra tools such as a router. While this may seem like a lot of work, it will save you from the headache of a broken floorboard later.
One of the best benefits of gluing a hardwood floor is the solid feel it provides. It also offers the ability to quickly replace a damaged board without damaging the look of your floors.
You should also consider the quality of the adhesive used. A high quality adhesive can help with moisture insulation and soundproofing.
Besides good glue, you will need a well-leveled subfloor and the correct trowel to ensure a perfect bond. There are many different types of wood flooring adhesives on the market. Choosing the right one will differentiate between a successful installation and a mediocre job.
Water-based vs. poly-based adhesives
Whether you’re looking to install hardwood floors or work with another type of flooring, you need to know how water-based vs. poly-based hardwood floor adhesives work. These adhesives provide a strong bond between the wood and the subfloor. They also allow the wood to expand and contract with humidity.
Water-based adhesives are less expensive and easy to apply. They have a low VOC content and can be easily cleaned. However, they can weaken if the moisture level in the room increases. It is why it’s essential to store them at the proper temperature.
Polyurethanes are typically used to create a strong bond between the substrate and the wood. They are commonly used on hardwood floors and engineered floors. In addition, they can create a moisture barrier on porous concrete.
Oil-based polyurethanes give a darker look and are less expensive. They may need to be reapplied every two years or so. It would help if you also were prepared to wait at least 12 hours after the last coat.
Acrylic adhesives are another popular type of wood floor adhesive. They offer a strong and moisture-resistant bond and are generally low or no-VOC. However, acrylic adhesives are not waterproof at full cure.
In addition to being cost-effective, water-based adhesives are better for the environment. When you choose a high-quality product, you can avoid VOC emissions and other harmful contaminants.
Depending on the manufacturer, water-based and poly-based adhesives may require different application methods. One standard method is to use a peel-and-stick adhesive. This type of adhesive is factory applied and can be rolled on-site.
