Installing Glue Down 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 solid bamboo flooring above concrete or wood subfloors. Keep these things in mind before you begin:

• Always choose a urethane based adhesive designed to be troweled onto the subfloor.
  
• Bamboo flooring adhesives that have water as an ingredient should not be used.
• Use buckets of glue, books or other heavy objects to weigh down areas where the flooring is not securely in contact with the subfloor.

NOTE: Not all manufacturers approve glue down installations for solid bamboo floors above concrete subfloors. Always check with your manufacturer to ensure this type of installation will not void your warranty.

Install the First Row

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

1. Measure out your expansion spacing in two or more places along the longest wall. Snap a chalk line between these points.
2. Dry fit the first row by laying out the bamboo with the groove toward the wall. Add spacers between the flooring and the wall. Make sure this first row is completely straight. Scribe fit the bamboo (if necessary) so that the flooring matches the contours in the wall.
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. Use a trowel to apply the flooring adhesive to the subfloor as directed by the manufacturer.
5. Re–install the first row of flooring. Fit boards tightly together and place spacers between the wall and each board. Ensure planks are in full contact with the adhesive.
Wipe away any excess bamboo flooring adhesive immediately. If desired, use small finishing nails to hold the first row in place.
6. At the end of the wall, measure and cut a plank to fit. Use a pinch bar (if necessary) to fit the last plank in place then place a spacer at the end of the first row.
7. Evaluate the newly installed row to ensure it is straight and level. Adjust where needed.
8. Let the first row set completely before continuing your installation.

Install the Main Part of the Floor

1. Use a short board (it should be at least 8"–10" in length) to start the second row.
2. Spread bamboo flooring adhesive and fit the bamboo together as you did on your first row.
3. Work your way across the floor until you reach the last row. Weigh down areas of concern.

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Install the Last Row

1. Measure out your expansion spacing in at least two places along the wall. Snap a chalk line between these points.
2. Dry fit the last row as you did with your first row. The tongue or cut part of the board should face toward the wall. Scribe fit (if necessary) so that the flooring matches the contours in the wall. Make sure this last 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 the flooring adhesive to the subfloor then re–install the last row of flooring. Place spacers between the wall and each plank. Ensure each board in the last row in full contact with the adhesive.
5. At the end of the wall, measure and cut a plank 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.
6. Evaluate the last row to ensure it is straight and level. Adjust where needed.

Roll the Floor

Use a 100lb–150lb roller to roll the floor as recommended by your flooring manufacturer. Rolling ensures all the bamboo flooring is securely in contact with the subfloor. Rollers can be rented from most equipment rental shops. Or use heavy objects to weigh down the floor during your installation to simulate rolling.

Let the Floor Set

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

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