Installing Engineered Floating Bamboo Floors

How to Install

Download Bamboo Flooring Installation Instructions | PDF's
Quick Guide on How–to–Install a Pre–Finished Bamboo Floor – 300kb pdf | Our short installation guide for those with DIY experience.
Full Guide – Complete Installation Instructions on Installing your Bamboo Floor – 1.5 mb pdf | Our full set of DIY installation instructions.

Use this method for T&G engineered bamboo flooring above a wood or concrete subfloor. Keep these things in mind before you begin:

• Only use this installation method if approved by your flooring manufacturer.
• An engineered floating floor is NOT secured to the subfloor. Only the tongues and grooves are secured to each other.
• Always choose a urethane–based adhesive designed for flooring tongues and grooves. Do not use adhesives that are trowled onto the subfloor or that list water as an ingredient.
• This method is not recommended for 3/8" engineered bamboo floors unless specifically approved by your manufacturer.

Install the First Row

Take extra time when installing the first row of bamboo. It is critical that this row be straight even if the walls are not.

1. Along the longest wall, measure out your expansion spacing in at least two spots. Snap a chalk line between these places.
2. Dry fit the first row by laying out the bamboo flooring with the groove toward the wall but do not glue yet. Scribe fit (if necessary) so that the flooring matches the shape of the wall. Add spacers between the wall and the flooring. Make sure this first row is completely straight.
3. Once satisfied with the fit, remove and stack planks in the order they will be installed. Take care not to scratch the finish while stacking.
4. Apply adhesive along the entire top of the tongue of the first board. Apply glue on the bottom of the groove of the second plank. Fit tightly together on the floor. Wipe away any excess glue. Place a spacer between each plank and the wall.
5. Work your way down the wall installing the floating bamboo planks.
6. At the end of the wall, measure and cut a board to fit. Use a pinch bar (if necessary) to fit the last plank in place. Place a spacer at the end of the first row.
7. Evaluate the first row to ensure it is straight and level. Adjust where needed.

Install the Main Part of the Floor

1. Use a short plank (it should be at least 8"–10" in length) to start the second row.
2. Apply adhesive to the entire top of the tongue on the installed plank and the entire bottom of the groove on the board to be installed. Fit tightly together and wipe away any excess adhesive.
3. Work your way across the floor until you reach the last row. Install spacers where needed along the walls.

Install the Last Row

1. Measure out your expansion spacing in at least two spots along the wall. Snap a chalk line between these points.
2. Dry fit the last row by laying out the bamboo with the tongue or cut part toward the wall. Scribe fit (if necessary). Make sure this last row is completely straight.
3. Once satisfied with the fit, remove and stack boards in the order they will be installed. Take care not to scratch the finish while stacking.
4. Apply the adhesive as before and install the entire last row. Fit all boards tightly together and place spacers along the wall where necessary.
5. At the end of the wall, measure and cut a board to fit. Use a pinch bar (if necessary) to fit the last plank in place. Place a spacer at the end of the last row.
6. Evaluate the last row to ensure it is straight and level. Adjust where needed.

Let the Floor Set

Allow the adhesive to set for between 8–24 hours. During this time, do not walk upon or place anything on the newly installed bamboo floor. Leave all spacers in place until the floor is completely dry.

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