Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 4/18/2011

Question
I am going to take up my carpet and install engineered flooring. Mu house is on peir and beam and the room is large 18'x23'.The installer wants to glue the flooring down. Is that better than putting down a pad and having it free float or nailing it down??
Thank you for your help.  Jim

Answer
Hi Jim, it depends on the manufacturer of the flooring material itself. It is always best to follow the installation instructions that come with the flooring.  Most laminates are made to free float over a vapor barrier pad as you mention with an air gap around walls of 1/2".  This allows the flooring to expand and contract with the humidity and/or temperature of the house.  By gluing the flooring down it locks it in place so if it does need to expand it may buckle or warp if there is no way for it to move.  But like I said, if the manufacturer allows for gluing and provides information on the process and the materials (glue) to use then it should be okay but it is not the normal method of installation. I hope this information helps, please feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com