A floating floor is a method of installation in which the floor is not attached to its subfloor. For instance, depending on the flooring type, the planks or tiles fit together with a tongue and groove mechanism or an interlocking system. This process does not typically require power tools or professional installers. Floating floor installation saves money and helps you quickly install your new floors, making it a favorite method for DIYers.
How to Install a Floating Floor
Floating a floor involves laying materials on top of a subfloor and attaching the planks or tiles together. Most floated floors achieve this with tongue and groove joints that lock the material sides together. Whether you install it yourself or call a professional, the installation includes the following:
- Begin with flooring materials that have a manufactured locking system. Consult a flooring professional for advice on what type and style may work best for your project.
- Next, select a type of underlayment. Underlayment is a thin sheet of foam or other cushions between the subfloor and flooring. Its additional benefits include sound dampening and preventing moisture from reaching the subfloor.
- Place the underlayment in the installation area and cut it so that several inches of excess is up the wall sides.
- Lay the tongue and groove flooring on top of the underlayment one plank at a time. Secure each piece and fill rows until you reach a stopping point.
- Measure and cut ending planks and affix them into place. As you install, mind baseboards and door thresholds will be used to ensure the transitions are even and there are no gaps.
- You can trim the excess underlayment when the area is completely covered and enjoy your new floor.
Do Laminate Floors Need Underlayments?
Although Laminate flooring is one of the toughest options on the market, it can still benefit from extra support. By installing underlay below your Laminate floors, you can help reduce noise, provide better insulation, and improve the stability and longevity of your new flooring.
Do Click Engineered Floors Need Underlayments?
Click lock flooring gets its name from the unique installation mechanism it uses. Unlike traditional tongue-and-groove flooring that requires nails or glue, click-lock flooring features interlocking planks that snap together with a “click.” The type of subfloor you’re working with can significantly influence the need for underlay. Underlayment is often recommended for wooden or plywood subfloors to smooth out minor imperfections and add extra cushioning. Engineered Wood Click Lock Flooring usually requires underlay, too. The added comfort, sound reduction, and moisture protection are essential to maintain the floor’s durability and aesthetics.
Do Luxury Vinyl Floors Need Underlayments?
To determine this, inspect the vinyl planks you’re planning to install. If your planks already have a pad-attached underlayment, you most likely won’t need an additional one unless the flooring manufacturer’s installation instructions allow for it.
However, adding an underlayment is highly recommended if your vinyl flooring doesn’t already have a pad-attached underlayment. This is especially true for concrete or wooden subfloors rooms, where an underlayment can significantly improve comfort, acoustic performance, and moisture prevention. Experts often recommend foam or felt underlayment for its sound reduction, protection from moisture, and insulation properties.
Invest in Felt Pads to Protect Your Floors
Although hardwood floors are durable and easy to maintain, they are sensitive to scratches caused by moving and sliding furniture. Even if you don’t move your furniture at all, their legs will leave unsightly marks on the floor.
To avoid this and keep your floor in its best condition, place felt pads under furniture such as chairs, tables, beds, and sofas. Moreover, felt pads are an affordable way to protect your wood floor from abrasion, marks, and scratches. As the name implies, they are made out of felt (or sometimes from rubber) and contain adhesive material on one side. Additionally, these pads are available in various colors, sizes, and thicknesses.
Indiana Floor, Inc.: Your One-Stop Shop for Quality Flooring Products
Since 1993, Indiana Floor has been the leading choice of contractor supply to the hardwood flooring trades. We offer a vast inventory of finished, unfinished, engineered flooring, sundries, and tools to meet customers’ needs. With 5 locations in the MD and VA areas, we are dedicated to providing quality flooring products to our clients. Contact us today at (703) 550-0020 or fill out the contact form on our website!